Having thick long hair can look very glamorous. And if you can find a perfect flat iron for your hair then this can tame the thickness and give you a lustrous smooth hair.
This device can also save a lot of time to get manageable hair.
Without the availability of so many products in the market and each offer their own selling point. This might make things confusing while purchasing.
Below we have listed some points that you can consider before doing any investments on flat irons.
Plate
Titanium Or Ceramic
Ceramic controls frizziness and this works best for less textured hair.
Titanium can heat up fast and this works best for textured hair.
Heat
For thick hair a high temperature is required to get a silky smooth press.
350 to 450 are optimal temperatures and you can choose between them. It is advisable to start with low temperature.
Size
For thick hair above the shoulders or shorter: between 1-and 1½-inches wideFor thick hair that’s shoulder length and longer:between 1 ½ -and 2-inches wide
We understand buying the right device for hair is not that easy. So we have curated a buying guide where we have mentioned all the necessary details required to get the perfect flat iron. And once you get accustomed with the selection process check out our top seven listed products.
Best Flat Irons for Thick Hair
| Flat iron for thick hair | Plate width | Material | Maximum heat | Adjustable heat setting | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hai Gold convertible hair straightener | 1.25 | Tourmaline Ceramic | 450°F | 30 | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Remington Solar Hair Straightener | 1.75 | Ceramic + Titanium | 420°F | 30 | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| BaBylissPRO Hair Straightener | 1.75 | Nano Titanium | 450°F | 50 | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| KIPOZI Flat Iron Hair Straightener | 1.75 | Titanium | 170F/450 | 10 degree increment | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| CHI G2 Hair Straightener | 1.25 | Titanium Infused | 425°F | ---- | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| HSI Flat Iron Hair Straightener | 1 | Ceramic Tourmaline | 450°F | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| HOT TOOLS Flat Iron Hair Straightener | 1.25 | Ceramic | 450°F | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. Hai Gold convertible hair straightener
Hai Beauty Enthusiast is a California, US- based company that specialises in professional hair styling tools such as curling wands, straighteners, blow dryers etc. They also have a wet hair care range that has shampoo, conditioner, masks, sprays and more.
The Hair beauty professional flat iron has non-damaging Tri-diamond ceramic plates that are 100% non-toxic and are suitable for both thick and fine hair types. The plates are infused with negative ions that give the hair a shiny, smooth finish each time you style it. The plates also have infrared energy that minimises heat damage to the hair.
The plates are 1.25 inch wide which is neither too wide nor too slim and can perform equally well on thick, voluminous hair as well as thin, fine hair. It has a maximum temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit which is adjustable from 250 degrees onward.
It is designed for professional use and hence guarantees even heat distribution, fast heating and smooth finish. It weighs only 1.72 pounds which makes it easier to use it without causing any arm strain.
What we liked:
- Automatic shut off that enables power off after 60 minutes making it fireproof and safe.
- The tri-diamond non-stick plates are easy to clean
- Has 2 years of warranty
- Digital display which makes it easier to know when the iron is ready to use
What we did not like:
- Some people faced durability issues
2. Remington Solar Flat Iron
Our second product is from Remington. This advanced styling tool can be used on wet or dry hair and it styles the hair quite faster( 3 times).
It is designed with distinctive steam vents that allow to straighten the hair right out of shower. It removes the water from damp hair and dries it quickly. This feature can be helpful for all the busy women as it dries the wet hair along with straightening and saves a lot of time.
The plates are 1 ¾ inch wide and this can straighten a good amount of hair strands at a time. The combination of tourmaline and ceramic distributes the heat evenly and makes hair silky and smooth.
420F is the highest temperature and this flat iron can be used on any hair type.
Its 30 heat settings offer a range for different hair textures.
This professional quality straightener also features auto shut off after 60 minutes. And this gives a peace of mind and also saves unnecessary power waste.
There is also a 2 year bonus with this device.
Product dimension– 7.8 x 6 x 13.9 inches, 1 pounds
Plate material– titanium
Plate width-1.75
Highest temperature– 450
Adjustable heat settings– 30
Pros
- Can be used on wet hair
- Offers 30 heat settings
- 2 year bonus
Cons
- Can cause a bit of snagging
3. BaBylissPRO Flat Iron
Our third product is made by styling experts Babyliss. This is designed for both professional and beginners. So you are likely to see this device in your friend’s home and a professional salon.
The plates are composed of titanium. These heat up fast and spread the heat evenly through the plate.
The plates are smooth and resist corrosion. And with the production of natural ions, the frizziness of hair is controlled and you get smooth silky hair.
The maximum temperature it can reach is 450F. So this implies that even the thickest hair can be straightened with this flat iron.
While mentioning the high temperature I must also tell you that its stay-cool Ryton housing helps the straighter to stay cool even at the highest temperature, making it easy to handle.
This is also very lightweight so it would not strain your arm or wrists.
This is available in two sizes 1-1/4″ and 1-3/4″ plates to suit different hair lengths.
And there is a three years warranty on this.
Product dimension- 12 x 2 x 3.5 inches, 1 pounds
Plate material- titanium
Plate width-1.75
Highest temperature– 450
Adjustable heat settings– 50
Pros
- 5-inch long plate
- Lightweight
- Produces negative ions
Cons
- Some consumers question its durability
4. KIPOZI Professional Titanium Flat Iron
Another great model for straightening hair. Kipozi flat iron plate is wider and this makes it suitable to straighten thick textured hair. This will quickly smoothen the hair without any hassle.
The handle is on the longer side that makes it easy to handle and use.
Similar to our previous product this is also structured with titanium plates. This maintains even temperature and gives you perfect control in getting any styles. And titanium plates are best known to treat coarse and curly hair.
This product also offers temperature range for different hair textures.
270F for fragile hair
350F for damaged or coloured hair
410F for healthy hair.
The chosen temperature will be visible on the LCD display and give you a clear and easy reading.
And this also has an auto shut off feature that powers off your iron 60minutes when not in use.
Product dimension– 1.61 pounds
Plate material– titanium
Plate width-1.75 inch
Highest temperature– 450 F
Adjustable heat settings– 10 degree increment
Pros
- 8 ft long plate
- Lightweight
- homogeneous heating
Cons
- Not ideal for short length hair
5. CHI G2 Flat Iron
Chi G2 straightener has a ceramic and titanium infused plate that are durable and are ideal for everyday straightening.
This ensures the longevity of plates and causes less damage to hair.
The blend of ceramic and titanium makes it ideal for all hair types.
With the touch of this flat iron, you can get silky, smooth and frizz-free hair.
It just takes 40 seconds to reach the highest temperature. 425F is the highest temperature which is enough to strengthen the curliest of hair.
Plus its floating plates ensure easy grooming without pulling or snagging hair.
The plate size is 1.25 inches which are best for thick coarse hair. And convenient colour codes indicate different temperatures.
Blue:- 0-370F(for fine or fragile hair)
Green:-375-395 degrees(for medium or wavy hair)
Red:- 400-425 degrees(for coarse or resistant hair)
And with its auto shut off the feature you can assure safety. With this feature, the straightener automatically switches off when not used for hours.
Chi G2 flat iron can also work on dual voltage and can be used anywhere around the globe.
This also comes with a 2-year warranty.
Product dimension– 1 x 0.6 x 3 inches, 15.8 ounces
Plate material– Ceramic and Tourmaline infused
Plate width-1.25 inch
Highest temperature– 450F
Pros
- LED light indicator
- Heats up in 40 seconds
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Some consumers question the packaging
6. HSI Professional Flat Iron
You must have guessed it from the name. HSI Professional gives you a professional experience at your home.
The ceramic tourmaline plates are not just any ordinary plates, they have inbuilt 8 HeatBalance micro-sensors. This regulates the temperature and evenly distributes heat so fewer passes are needed to straighten hair.
You get a shinier and silky finish with every pass.
The adjustable temperature ranges from 140-450F and you choose as per your hair requirement. Though if you are unsure about the temperature start with the lowest range.
And the 1-inch plate works great for thin to medium hair texture.
HSI straightener comes in a super sleek design and matte finish that makes it very attractive.
And a bonus you also get a year warranty, travel size bag and argan oil that nourishes your hair.
Also, this works on dual voltage and you can easily carry it out.
Product dimension– 1 pound
Plate material– Ceramic Tourmaline
Plate width– 1 inch
Highest temperature– 450F
Pros
- You get many accessories
- inbuilt 8 HeatBalance micro-sensors
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Does not have auto shut off feature
7. HOT TOOLS Flat Iron
Hot tools is one of the pioneer brands in manufacturing hair styling products. Their advanced flat irons give a high-quality experience at home.
This is designed with top ceramic technology to give you sleek, touchable and silky smooth styles.
Its advanced technology gives you powerful performance and great results.
The plates are multidirectional and allow full hair contact to help you reduce frizziness. In return, it adds shine and makes hair ultra sleek.
The plates are wide (1 ½) and can pass longer sections in one pass. And this will help straighten hair in very less time.
The highest temperature it reaches is 450 Degree and even the thickest hair can be straightened with this high temperature.
And the LCD display will reflect your desired temperature.
Unlike other flat irons, this automatically shut offs after 2 hours.
This easy handling flat iron comes with ergonomic design and soft-touch that makes your grooming process comfortable.
Product dimension– 1 pound
Plate material– Ceramic
Plate width– 1.25
Highest temperature– 450F
Pros
- You get many accessories
- inbuilt 8 HeatBalance micro-sensors
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Does not have auto shut off feature
Things To Consider While Buying Flat Iron for Thick Hair
The below mentioned factors will guide you to get the best suitable product for yourself.
1. Plate width
Depending on your hair thickness and length consider the plate size. For example, if your hair is till shoulder or shorter than that- 1 and 1 ½ inch is suitable.
For longer than shoulder then 1 ½ – 2 inches is suitable.
2. Composition of plate
After deciding the size of your plate, you can look for its composition. The most popular type is ceramic and titanium. Ceramic plates heat up evenly and give you a smoother finish. But if you are looking for durability than titanium is a better option.
3. Variable heat settings
Some straighteners provide low, medium and high heat. It is better to invest in a straightner that provides an adjustable temperature setting, this makes it convenient to choose a desirable heat setting.
For thick hair you can choose a temperature between 300F-450F.
4. Dual voltage capacity
If you are a frequent overseas traveller. Then check if your iron has dual voltage capacity. 110V and 220V are the two options of dual voltage. This will let you use it at home and also abroad.
5. Safety timer
If you are a forgetful one and always wondering if you have plugged or unplugged your flat iron. Then here is an ideal feature for you.
Some flat irons come with 60-minute auto shut off and pre-programmed heat settings. This gives you peace of mind and it doesn’t even cost higher than the iron that does not have this feature.
6. Warranty
It is always better if your product comes with a warranty. This just makes the product more reliable as compared to others.
7. Wet to dry straighteners
Wet to dry straighteners are a great option for people who are pressed with time. These flat irons promise to work on wet hairs. So after you take a shower you can directly use this on wet hair and eliminate the process of blow drying. With every pass your hair gets dried and straight.
Well the manufactures are still working on this technology to make the product better and to add value to the grooming process. Though some consumers have reviewed that their flat iron works better on damp hair but that doesn’t imply that these straighteners are preferably suitable for wet hair.
People with thin hair might be more beneficial with the technology but for people with thick hair might have to work a few extra steps to get better results. And we would be looking at this in the next section.
With the advancement in technology, very soon we shall see a variety wet to dry straighteners. But till then we would suggest to dry hair completely and then straighten other your hair might become frizzy.
Steps to straighten thick hair
1. Wash and condition hair
It is always advisable to wash the hair before straightening. If your hair is dry use a hydrating shampoo and clean your hair. Or choose another shampoo depending on the hair type.
Also apply a conditioner once you are done washing with shampoo. Leave the conditioner for 5-7 minutes and then wash off.
2. Towel dry hair
After you have washed the hair. Use a towel to dry it. This step will reduce the task of a blow dryer. For towel drying use a microfiber, this fabric is more absorbent and softer than cotton.
3. Use a heat protector
Since thick hair requires high temperature it is better to use a heat protector. Apply this before you start straightening. This will coat the hair and prevent it from burning out or drying.
4. Blow dry using a round brush
Thick hair requires a bit more effort for straightening. While blow drying the hair use a round bristle brush to pull it straight. This step will also reduce the effort required by a flat iron. And make sure the hair is completely dry before you start straightening.
5. Section and comb
After this prepping is done section your hair and comb it well. Sectioning will make sure no hair strand is left behind and combing it well will prevent the flat iron to pass over any tangles.
6. Swiftly move the flat iron
Start heating the hair from at least 2 inches away from the roots. Glide the iron fast instead of holding in one spot for long.
7. Apply serum
After you are done with straightening apply a serum to add a shine to your hair. This will make the hair look glossy and smooth.
Tips to straighten thick hair
Now that you have chosen a flat iron to treat your thick hair let’s look into some tips that can help to get a glossy, smooth frizz free hair.
- Make sure your hair is dry before you use a flat iron. Otherwise your hair might sizzle on contact with the hot flat irons. And this can intesly damage your hair. So make sure to get your hair dried. You can towel dry it, blow dry it or even air dry it.
- Oil your hair before you start grooming. Most hair nourishing oils available in the market provide some protection to hair. So use this before you start straightening.
- Choose the right temperature for your hair. Though for thick hair more heat is required but it is suggested to initiate from the low temperature.
- Most people with thick hair face this problem of less volume towards the root. This is because after straightening the weight of hair is pulled downwards. To overcome this try using dry shampoo on the root or try using some volumizing treatment.
- Section your hair properly and also comb thoroughly. This will ensure no hair strand is left behind and prevent the flat iron from passing over any hair tangle.
- After straightening, always use a serum. This will lock in the style and prevent frizzy hair for hours.
Things to avoid while straightening
- Not cleaning the plates of straightner properly
Before you start straightening check if the plates are clean. Any deposit left on the plate can damage your hair and also the efficiency of flat iron. Make sure to do the cleaning while the device is unplugged
- Nor drying hair well
In a rush you might miss drying your hair. But try and avoid this as it damages your hair for the long term. The hot plates of straightners can make the et hair frizzy.
- Not choosing the correct size
This is the most important thing. If you select a small flat iron for long hair then the grooming will take much longer than expected. And if you get a large flat iron for small hair then this might make the task difficult.
So choose the size of device depending on your hair.
- Keeping the flat iron in one spot for too long
This is one common mistake the most people do. For thick hair you need to use high temperature. And applying the high temperature on one spot of hair can cause damage.
While dealing with high temperatures you need to be quick. Instead of holding it one place quickly pass the plates over hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Well it should be cleaned frequently preferably after any use. If you see any hair or residue on the plates clean immediately. Perform this when the device is cool down.
Yes, you can surely curl your hair with flat irons. Though it might take longer to do so.
Well it depends on how you handle the device. But it is always better to take precautions. Wearing gloves can prevent your hand from burns.
Conclusion
Having thick hair can be on many women’s wishlist. But picking the straighter can be a bit tricky. Once you have the right device it is easy to get a frizz free smooth hair.
With so many options available in the market you might get confused, but we hope our buying guide makes your selection process easier.
Among these top 7 picks we have our favourite- HAI Gold Convertable Professional Flat Iron. Its plates are made of ceramic and tourmaline that controls the frizziness and makes hair smooth. It also offers 30 adjustable heat settings and this gives a wide range of options. The 455F and it just takes 1 seconds to reach this.