Solia flat iron straightener

Flat irons resemble a pair of barbeque tongs - a "V" shape. The plate types vary by material - ceramic, Tourmaline, sapphire, gold-tone, traditional, and metal. The temperature controls are adjustable or fixed and some have digital displays.

Some come with overheat protection, surge protection, or an electromagnetic wave shield for safety. The plate width ranges from 3/4" to 3-inches.

As we will discuss below in our reviews, there are specific flat irons for certain hair types. Prices on hair straighteners go from under $20 all the way up to over $150. The top brands are CHI, Bion, Hot Tools, HAI, Solia, Sedu, Solano, BaByliss, Futura, Kenta, FHI, GHD, Bio, T3, Conair, and Wigo. So which one is right for you?

You need to consider your hair type, how much you want to spend, and the plate material that will work best on your hair.

We did some online research at sites like Folica.com, Flatironreviews.com, and Misikko.com to see just what consumers and experts have to say about the latest flat irons and hair straighteners.

My wife owns a Hot Tools Ceramic flat iron and I must say it can do wonders with her hair, although we'll see how it does in head to head comparisons with other brands. Most reviewers said they were looking for a hair straightener that works easily, doesn't pull or snag your hair, or burn the hair.