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Step 1
Choose the best heating system in the straightening iron, which is the integrated ceramic heating system, or ICHS. Check the packaging or product description for this specific straightening iron heating system. An ICHS heating system is made out of tungsten and six ceramic plates. It is handmade. Straightening irons with ICHS heating systems have a faster heat recovery time and can be used on dry or damp hair.
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Step 2
Get a straightening iron with a powerful heating system. A more powerful heating system will heat up faster and stay hot even when you are using it. Straightening irons with low quality heating systems get cooler every time you apply it. A higher quality heating system will help the straightening iron get hot quickly and stay hot while you are using it. Look at the wattage on the packaging or product description. The wattage ranges from 40 to 60; the higher the wattage, the better. Choose one with 60 watts for the best quality.
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Step 3
Choose a straightening iron that will heat up to 370 degrees Fahrenheit. You will need a higher temperature if your hair is extremely thick. If your hair is very thin you can use a lower temperature. If you try to use a low-temperature straightening iron on thick and/or curly hair, it may not work as well as using a straightening iron that can heat up to 370 degrees or more. Choose one that has an adjustable heat control so you can lower the heat or increase the heat as needed.
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Step 4
Find the best size for your hair. Straightening irons come in a variety of sizes, from as small as 1/2 inch to as large as 1 and 1/4 inch. How you will be using the straightening iron will determine which size is best for you. If you are only going to use the straightening iron to straighten your hair and leave down or in a simple ponytail, you can use a larger size. If you are going to use the straightening iron to help style your hair, you will need the 1/2-inch iron because it is easier to move around.
