Smooth sleek hair is a very popular look and thanks to Hair Flat Irons this style is easy for the average women to achieve. There are many different flat iron plate sizes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

With so many different sized hair irons, it is important to understand that the texture and length of hair as well as your desired look depends greatly on the plate size you choose. If you have short hair you should select a 3/8" through 1" straightening iron. Longer hair demands a larger plate size, I recommend 1 ½" to 2 ¼". One of my favorite sizes is the 1 ¼, because it is so versatile. It allows you to style almost any length hair and achieve any look you want. It is small enough, enabling you to create tons of volume close to your roots and is large enough to effectively straighten a full head of hair in a reasonable amount of time.

Another styling benefit of a 1 ¼" straightening iron is that it can also be used it to add soft curls, waves or flips. For this type of thermal styling make sure to purchase a flat iron with curved plate edges and solid ceramic plates. This will help to prevent snagging and creases in the hair.

I only recommend professional grade flat irons, because they feature all of the most sophisticated technologies and quality components. Better made thermal tools ensure exceptional styling result, faster heat up, consistent temperatures, multiple heat settings, and solid ceramic plates which prevent hot spots, the leading cause of breakage and thermal damage.

Best low cost professional hair iron: HAI Convertable Ceramic Flat Iron - 1 1/4" – This unique iron creates countless styles including straight, curly or flipped on all hair types. Featuring nano tourmaline infused ceramic plates, this tool seals the cuticle and locks in moisture with negative ions and far infrared rays; leaving hair healthy, shiny and beautiful.

Features Include:

• Sapphire Ceramic Plates

• Floating Plates

• Adjustable Temperature Settings

• Ergonomic Design

• Consistent Heat

Top grade professional iron: BaByliss Pro Nano Titanium Ceramic Flat Iron - 1 1/4" (#BABNT2091) – This iron combines nano technology with the high heat conductivity of titanium and the heat-resistant properties of ryton to deliver state of the art performance with less stress and damage to the hair.

Features Include:

• Titanium & Ceramic Plates

• Advanced Surround Heat

• Far Infrared Heat

• Variable Temperature

• Temperatures up to 450 F

• Ionic Technology

• Convenient Slim Design