Are you in the market for a new set of hot rollers? Or, what do you do when your blow-dryer dies before you have even styled your hair?
Lucky for you our favourite beauty expert Fabio is here to show us what to look for when we are in the market for some new hair tools!
Watch the segment in episode 161
BLOWDRYERS
How has the technology changed? Great question, it was only a few years ago that we could buy only one type of blow dryer technology 'hot air produced by a motor'. Every few years they would make the dryer more powerful and this was the big news.
Today: there are many choices as you will see below:
CERAMIC: The ceramic in the dryer will heat up evenly, giving out a consistent heat while drying. Why is this important? This negates the need for all the speeds and heat settings. Ceramic also reduces bacteria formation.
IONIC: The big news here is it reduces drying time. How? By delivering charged negative ions break down the moisture into tiny droplets that are very easily absorbed by the hair shaft. This means that you spend less time on drying your hair. Why is this important? The hair becomes shiner, fuller and softer, and it becomes also more manageable. Another benefit of using these hair dryers is the fact that they preserve the natural oils in the hair and seal in the moisture.
TOURMALINE: This is the newest technology in the market place. The idea is Tourmaline is a semi precious stone and when heated it delivers up to 6 times more negative ions to the hairs positive ions this greatly improves hair drying time. This brings much better results to your hair. Why is this important? It helps close the hair shaft therefore creating healthier shiny hair also good for fragile hair.
How much should we spend? • My philosophy is the more time you spend on your hair directly relates to the investment you should make. The best are usually over $100.
What features to look for? • Lightweight, 2 speeds, 2 heating temperatures, cold button and make sure it comes with condensers.
Fab's shopping tips? • I suggest you buy your dryer where there are many choices and/or a consultant to help. Ex: department stores, reputable beauty supply outlets and my personal suggestion, at your favorite salon. Make sure you have warranty for at least a year.
FLAT IRON
How have they changed? Flat irons are probably the most innovative tool these days. • They are now used for more than just flattening hair. • They can also add curl, waves because of the rounded edges. • Of course crimping irons are also making a comeback.
What types are there? • Traditional type: 2 inch plate, heavy duty, straight edges and made to straighten the unruly tresses. • 1 inch wide plate for same reason except now you can get closer to scalp and better for frontal area. Rounded edges. • Mini type for fringe and delicate areas around the face.
What features to look for? • Look for a heating capacity of 280◦C. • Easy to handle. • Ceramic/Teflon coated.
How to choose the right one for our hair? • Assess your needs: 1) If you have very thick curly hair, buy the best and at least 1.5 inch plate. 2) If you have med wavy hair: same as above except you can choose the less expensive type.
How Much to spend? • Flat iron prices range widely but don't get fooled by things like velvet handle or fancy ergonomic grips as these are not needed.
Fab's shopping tips? • Make sure your flat iron when depressed will grip your hair well. Depress the iron and make sure you can't see any light come through and test on your hair. Ideally if you use the iron every time you style over invest but as an added purchase buy a mini flat iron for your bangs and face area.
