Tried & Tested: 16 Best Hair Straighteners For Silky And Stylish Locks

Hair straighteners are differentiated based on the plates. There are three main types—ceramic, tourmaline, and titanium. Ceramic is the most affordable is good for dry, damaged or fine hair. They usually use infrared technology that straightens the hair from the inside out which is considered gentler. Tourmaline is best suited for all types of hair, and is best known to soothe and fight frizz making the hair look super sleek and polished while also locking in moisture. While titanium is great for coarse, thick, curly, or coiled hair because it heats up super quickly and can handle high heat, reaching full temperature quickly.

While affordability is a factor when it comes to buying a hair straightener, it doesn't always mean that the more expensive, the better. Hair texture plays a vital role when it comes to choosing a flat iron. If you're someone with thin, brittle, or even colour-treated hair, all you might need is a ceramic-plated straighter with either low or adjustable heat settings. On the other hand, if you have thick, curly hair you will need one with high-temperature settings and possibly one with titanium plates that'll help lock in moisture and not further dry out your hair. In addition to this, heat protectants and hair serums should always be used to help lessen the damage done by the heat.

All salon experts recommend the ideal heat temperature for flat irons to be between 148 Celsius and  205 Celsius since it is not too hot, and not too high to get the job done. However, if you're someone with chemically treated or fine hair, pick a temperature range closer to 176 Celsius. Those with virgin hair can always go higher than 205 Celsius as well, but always be mindful to use a protectant and a smoothing oil or serum after. For folks with bleached hair, or supremely damaged hair, limit straightening your hair as much as possible because heat will only further ruin your tresses. 

Loved by not one, but five people, including our LBB crew and myself, the Phillips Heated Hair Straightening Brush gets all the points for doing what it claims to do. Our former LBB crew member Aakansha had this to say about it, 'If you're anything like me, then you have probably only decided 10 minutes before leaving the house to actually style your hair a bit! The Philips Straightener brush has been my BFF for a few years now, because it's really easy to use and does a great job with straightening hair. It's just like a brush, though you're not meant to touch the scalp with it, or use it on damn/wet hair. I love that the bristles are strong enough to detangle the hair, but also flexible enough to not pull at knots. This one also has keratin so actually adds shine! Also, if you have fairly straight hair but want it straighter, then this one doesn't add bounce or volume.' Another friend's sister loved this for all of the above reasons too, but they added that they appreciate the cord rotates 360 degree, so you don't run the risk of it bending and breaking it over time!

Nykaa Rating: 4.1/5

Recommended by an LBB user who got this years ago,this one is also a Phillips product. She loves it because it's still going strong, giving her poker straight hair (since she already has fine, semi-straight hair) without drying out her tresses. It comes with two temperature settings, heating up within 60 seconds. Another plus to this is that the plates are wide, making it easier and faster to straighten your hair, since thicker plates mean more hair can be accommodated in each section.

Nykaa Rating: 4.3/5

Recommended by a co-worker Krittika, who uses the Ikonic Gleam straightener. She got her hands on this one after she noticed the salon person using this one to style her hair. She says that it's great when it comes to not frying her hair, and adding shine. The only con however is that since the plates aren't wide, it takes a while, especially if you have thick, voluminous hair. In addition to this, the plates claim to emit gentle, far-infrared heat that is gentle on the hair, heating it from the inside out.  A bit on the higher side when it comes to price, she says it is still worth it, and we'd take her word for it.

Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5

Ira, a co-worker uses this one. Though she doesn't straighten her hair that often, but whenever she does, it gets the job done. It gets bonus points for being super affordable too. It's got ceramic plates, and even though it's not all about giving you that 'keratin shine', it doesn't fry your hair. Though she suggested using a hair protectant or serum of sorts before using it. 

Nykaa Rating: 4.2/5

Pro-Tip: You can also check out this review of it.

Though not a full-blown straightener, this blow-dry brush can be used in multiple ways, giving you six styling options, including straightening, volumising, and hair-relaxing, among others. LBB crew member Oorja says that it's easy to use, and comes with a brass oval-shaped barrel for more surface contact and styling. It's unlike your traditional straighteners because you don't have to wait for your hair to dry! So you dry and style together, which is great if you're in a hurry. Another plus point is that it hardly weighs 400 grams so you don't get sore arms. 

Nykaa Rating: 4/5

Pro-Tip: Check out this review for more details and our verdict! 

How can I write about hair straighteners and not mention Dyson? Much loved and recommended by an LBB user, the first thing she said was that it is definitely worth all the hype! What she loves about it is that it is low on heat, travel-friendly, cordless, and comes with adjustable plates, which don't tug or pull on your hair. It's easy to use and features high-end technology, which is true for all Dyson products. Plus it comes with a Dyson-designed paddle brush and de-tangling comb. 

Nykaa Rating: 3.8/5

Pro-Tip: Check out alternatives to Dyson's bestsellers here.  

Nykaa Rating: 3.9/5

I've been using this for over 10 years now, so it's safe to say that if you get this one, it will last you for a long time. On loose curly hair, it takes about 15 to 20 minutes to get a super polished straight look. I tend to use this at least thrice a week, and don't see my hair being damaged by it. But since you're still exposing your hair to heat, using a serum or hair protectant would be advisable. It definitely adds shine and removes frizz, what I love most about it is that the ends of my hair do not look dry and brittle. The product also comes with an easy lock function so it's easier to travel and store. 

Nykaa Rating: 4.2/5

Muskan from the LBB crew had this to say about the Remington straightener, 'this has lasted me for over eight years, and from the looks of it, I'm sure it'll last me another eight! Making it super worth the investment. It works great on curly-wavy hair (which I have). The only thing is that you have to be careful because it heats up in seconds. The finish is great, smooth, silky hair thanks to the ceramic plates. 

Nykaa Rating: NA

Siya from the crew also owns a Philips straightener. Here's what she had to say about it, 'This is a hair straightener that not only straightens but also adds extra shine to my hair, which tends to look dull and dry on any other given day. You can always rely on Philips for trusty hair appliances that will last you for a good four to five years (if not a lifetime) and this stands true because I've had this for four years now. I love how it comes with their innovative Keratin plates that allow fast heat transfer and smoother gliding through the hair without it every feeling like I'm frying my hair. It also has six heat temperature settings.

Nykaa Rating: 4.3/5

Recommended by our editor, Nivedita, the Auburn Hair Straightener is popular among the list of best straighteners for its superior performance and effortless styling. With its elegant gradient design, this straightener brings you the best of functionality with a touch of sophistication. If you are looking to achieve sleek and shiny results, it’s a must-have for every style enthusiast.

Nykaa Rating: NA

Another recommendation by Siya, the Dyson Airstrait straightener is one of the top-rated hair straighteners that offers wet-to-dry straightening using its powerful and directional airflow. It smooths and aligns your hair without hot plates that prevent any heat damage, ensuring a natural and straight finish. The straightener is also suitable for all hair types and has two modes, six temperatures and two airflow settings.

Nykaa Rating: 4.7/5

Recommended by Sidhart, this top-rated hair straightener is perfect for short hair, tight curls, and bangs. The narrow plates allow for precise styling, that offers sleek and smooth results. Its advanced ceramic heat technology maintains a consistent temperature, that prevents heat damage and enhances hair shine. What I love about this product is its small size, making it ideal for travel and touch-ups.

Nykaa Rating: 5/5

Another recommendation by Sidhart, this affordable straightener features titanium-coated plates for smooth gliding and even heat distribution. With seven temperature settings, it caters to various hair types and textures. The 3D concave and convex design helps to create straight or wavy styles, while the 1-hour auto shut-off feature ensures safety, making them enter the list of best straighteners to invest in.

Nykaa Rating: 4.6/5

Recommended by one of our writers, Riya, this crimper features wide ceramic plates that provide defined crimps for a bold, textured look. The adjustable temperature control allows for customised styling, while the cool tip ensures safe handling. It's perfect for adding volume and creating unique hairstyles for special occasions.

Nykaa Rating: 4.2/5

This top rated straightener recommended by Nivedita combines a hairbrush with a hot air styler. It detangles and straightens simultaneously, making it a convenient option for quick styling. The charcoal bristles help to reduce frizz and add shine, while the multiple heat settings cater to different hair types. It's ideal for achieving a smooth, voluminous blowout at home.

Nykaa Rating: 4.9/5

This lightweight mist shields hair from heat up to 450°F while adding moisture and shine. Infused with argan oil and lavender, it helps to tame frizz and flyaways, leaving hair soft and manageable.

How To Use:  Spray generously on damp or dry hair from roots to ends before using hot tools. Can also be used as a leave-in conditioner for added hydration.

Nykaa Rating: 4.6/5

This highly concentrated oil is formulated with Olaplex Bond Building Technology, sunflower, moringa, pomegranate, green tea, and grape seed oils. It helps you repair and strengthen your hair while providing heat protection up to 450°F. It also reduces frizz up to 72 hours leaving hair silky, shiny, and healthy-looking.

How To Use: Apply a small amount to damp or dry hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Style as usual. Can also be used on dry hair to tame frizz and add shine.

Nykaa Rating: 4.5/5

This lightweight and affordable mist protects your hair from heat styling damage up to 230°C. Formulated with grapeseed oil and provitamin B5, it helps control frizz and add shine to your hair.

How To Use: Spray liberally on towel-dried hair from roots to ends before blow-drying or using hot tools.

Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5

This powerful spray provides long-lasting heat protection up to 230°C while helping to create sleek, smooth styles. It also protects your hair against humidity and reduces hair breakage.

Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5

How To Use: Spray evenly on damp hair before blow-drying. It can also be used on dry hair before using flat irons or curling irons.

1) Do hair straighteners damage your hair?

Excessive heat can cause hair damage, but using a high-quality straightener with temperature control and proper technique can minimise any harm to your hair. It's necessary to avoid high heat settings on delicate hair.

2) How do I choose the best hair straightener for my hair type?

For fine or damaged hair, opt for a straightener with lower heat settings and ceramic plates. For thick or coarse hair, titanium plates with higher heat settings are recommended for better results..

3) What are the benefits of using a hair heat protectant? 

Hair heat protectants form a barrier against high temperatures and prevent moisture loss, split ends, and breakage. They help maintain your hair's health and shine while styling.

4) Can I use a heat protectant with all types of hair straighteners?

Yes, heat protectants can be used with any type of hair straighteners availabe in the market. As it's extremely important to use these products when using high-heat tools like titanium straighteners.

5) How often should I use a heat protectant? 

You should use a heat protectant every time you style your hair with any straightening tool. Using a hair protectant helps to preserve hair health over time.