A Must-Have Guide to Heat-Styling Tools

Here’s a rundown of your basic haircare appliances. These items take their toll on your hair, so use sparingly and on the lowest heat setting possible. Prices range from the reasonable $25 for a basic hair dryer to more sophisticated items in the triple digits.

Blow dryers are an indispensable part of many women’s haircare routine. If you’re watching your pennies (most of us are these days!) opt for a well-known brand. You can also try an ionic hair dryer, which are generally pricier. They work by blasting the hair with negative ions, which, when they come into contact with wet hair’s positive ions, lock in moisture. Some claim ionic hair dryers make their hair shinier.
If you have a tendency for dry hair, choose a blow dryer with variable heat settings.





• Curling irons: yes, they’re still around! Today’s curling irons have evolved, and now come in either metal or ceramic. The latter option is pricier, but is also gentler on your hair, as the heat is more evenly distributed. Choose an iron that has the barrel width corresponding to the curl size you’re aiming for—smaller for small curls, bigger for looser curls—you get the picture! As with your blow dryer, choose an iron with adjustable heat.
• Flat irons, also known as straightening irons, do just the opposite of a curling iron—they take out the curl. They also come in either metal or ceramic. It’s a good idea to invest in a ceramic iron, especially if you aim to use it often.

Only use curling and flat irons when your hair is completely dry!