Heating Tools Exposed: The Difference Between Thermal, Ionic & Ceramic Flat Irons

Thermal energy is made up of a combination of potential and kinetic energy based on an object consisting of atoms, molecules, and electrons. I will spare you the details of the complexity of physics. However, the particles of the object are based on normal nodes of vibration which correlates with heat capacity.

The Basics of Ionic Technology

Most blow dryers use Ionic technology. 

Benefits in using Ionic products:

All ceramic flat irons produce negative charges while materials such as tourmaline and titanium greatly enhance the output of negative ions. They also use infrared heat which is the most efficient and mildest way to heat the hair.
The majority of ceramic flat irons on the market are made with aluminum or titanium which is coated with several layers of ceramic. Unfortunately, over a period of time, the ceramic coating may peel or chip exposing the metal surface which may cause damage to the hair.

There is not much difference in selecting a flat iron for African-American hair types vs. other ethnic groups. The only difference is the preparation, care, and attention needed prior to straightening and after styling.

Heat strips the hair of moisture so it is important to use moisturizer conditioners regularly prior to heat styling the hair. A heat protectant spray is the best protection from excessive heat. You should stay away from using oil based products, hair glossers or spray laminators while using heat which automatically singes the hair causing burnt, dry and damaged ends. It’s best to use these products as the finishing touch to styling the hair. 

On that note, it’s best to work on a low setting and increase the temperature gradually until you find the right temperature that works best for your hair type. It should not be more than 300-400 degrees.

While using a curling or flat iron, it’s best not to hold the iron in the hair for long periods. It does not take long for freshly shampooed and moisturized hair to curl so use good judgment when styling. It’s also not recommended to use heating tools when your hair is dirty or has too much product buildup. This will definitely cause breakage.

Nano, in general, means “Small,” but in relation to a heating tool, it is used to describe the very small particles inside of a flat iron’s plate.

So understanding the terminology, you definitely do not want to purchase a flat iron that states solely, “Nano Ceramic,” because it does not have any additional properties within the ceramic surface. In result, it is not comparable to a salon quality curling or flat iron.

Preferably, selecting a curling or flat iron which is labeled, “Nano Silver,” Nano Titanium” or “Nano Titanium “Oxide,” is well-worth the investment. The first two options mentioned deters bacterial growth or germs while the latter slows down chemical buildup.

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