Styling tools are just as important as using the right shampoo and conditioner on your hair. If you have been using the same hair dryer too long, the heating element could be damaged and disperse uneven heat, causing damage to your hair. If you are using the wrong kind of flat iron, you may notice that its pulling on your hair, causing breakage. The curling wand you have been using may not be heating up like it should, causing an embarrassing mishap like the girl on YouTube. All of these are good reasons to consider investing in some new tools! Keep in mind that good quality tools can be a pricey investment. Some key attributes to look for in tools are temperature control, barrel and plate type, and heating elements.
The dryer that I am in love with using in the salon is the Chi Rocket Hair Dryer. I got the limited edition gold sparkly one, because… well, glitter makes everything better! It is a little on the expensive side, but I use this dryer constantly on my clients and it always leaves their hair shiny! I also like the attachments, the concentrator, and pick nozzle. These attachments help to keep the air going in one steady stream so it doesn’t rough the cuticle and cause frizz. In a better dryer, like the Chi, the heating element is more stable; when you have an inexpensive, or even an old dryer, the heat doesn’t disperse evenly, causing damage. The Chi dryer uses science by creating negative ions to break down water molecules instead of getting so extremely hot that it causes damage!
Chi Rocket Hair Dryer $149.99
When looking for a good quality flat iron, the plates are what you need to pay attention to. A lot of inexpensive flat irons have metal plates that are dipped in a ceramic type glaze that will eventually chip off. If you are experiencing tugging and/or pulling from your flat iron, look at the plates. It may be time to invest in a new iron! The flat iron I am currently using is the Paul Mitchell Express Ion Smooth +. It has a digital temperature gauge (so I am able to change the flat iron’s temperature on each customer I am servicing), cushioned ceramic plates (so it glides through the hair with ease), and beveled edges for easy styling. When Ashley was looking for a new flatiron I recommended this one to her. She liked it so much, she even got her mom one too!
While we are talking Paul Mitchell Tools, I also really like the Unclipped 3-in-1 Styling Wand. There are 3 different barrels that clip off easily, giving you different sized curls and waves! This is also a digital tool and heats up to 410 degrees. It comes with finger gloves to help protect your fingers from burns! Be sure to practice using this tool on low heat.
When curling hair, my go-to curling irons are part of the Hot Tools brand. I have been using them for years. They are cheaper than most top brands, but really good quality and they last a long time! You can get them in different sizes, styles, and colors. Although, not digital like the other tools I have mentioned, you can still control the heat on your curling iron by turning the dial on the side. If you are unsure of what size curing iron is best for you, take into consideration the length of your hair and the desired style. If you are looking for body and bounce, go with a bigger barrel (1 and 1/4-inch or bigger depending on length), if you’re looking for a pretty curl that’s not too tight, I recommend a 1-inch barrel (if your hair is longer than your shoulders). If you want something tighter, a 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch barrel curling iron usually does the trick! I usually use the 3/4-inch barrel on my up-dos for proms and weddings. I also found a Rainbow Gold one that I am in love with! Ashley curls her hair with this 1 and 1/4-inch barrel Hot Tool curling iron (recommended for long hair).
A few tips to keep in mind when using styling tools
- Always use a heat protector. I like Chi Iron Guard for flat ironing and Matrix Thermal Active Setting Spray before curling. Ashley likes Caviar Perfect Iron Spray for both flat ironing and curling.
- Turn the temperature down on your tools.
- Use clips to help section off the hair, working in smaller sections will help you achieve the best results!
Please feel free to comment any questions you may have. I am happy to assist in anyway I can!
Love,
Er
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