6 Best Hair Straighteners and Flatirons for Smooth, Damage-Free Strands

Start with the plate material:

Ceramic flatirons are best for fine, thin, or easily straightened hair.

They heat evenly and gently, reducing the risk of damage, says Raven Hurtado, a hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. You might also see ceramic tourmaline models, which help boost shine and lock in moisture to minimize frizz and static.

If you have thick, coarse, or curly hair, go for a titanium straightener. Titanium heats up quickly and holds higher temperatures, so you’ll get smoother results in fewer passes, says Lacy Redway, Unilever stylist and celebrity hair artist.

There are also hybrid tools that combine materials—or newer designs, like the Dyson Airstrait, which uses air rather than plates to cause even less heat damage.

No matter which material you use, always use a heat protectant and limit flatiron use to a couple of times a week. If you find yourself straightening daily, Cavalcante suggests considering longer-lasting options, such as a Brazilian blowout or a keratin treatment.