I have used a Chi for four years, and recently bought a new flat-iron for 40 bucks that seems to work as well. However, with both of them I had to run my hair through the iron several times to get it straight (and I do use a heat protectant and a styling product to help straighten hair).
I have been reading about the $100+ flat irons. One brand in particular stands out–GHD. Does anyone have any experience with the more expensive flat irons, GHD or otherwise? I usually use a one-inch, and I have very thick, curly hair.
Cheap ones I’ve had in the past aren’t as hot and the surface doesn’t last very long. The professional $100+ one I have now is super hot and I only have to pass my very thick hair through twice to completely straighten it. Hot Styler is the brand name.
I have a Paul Brown ceramic straightening iron and only pass my hair through once. It heats up fast, works very well, and has lasted me about 5 years so far. I can fall asleep with damp hair, wake up with it a kinky mess, and still get it straight and sleek in ten minutes. Well worth the money.
My mom recently bought me a more ‘store-brand’ straightening iron and I couldn’t even get it to properly straighten my hair after a half dozen swipes. I don’t use it at all - too much work and time.