Q: Dear Ms Connected,

Ceramic hair straighteners are great. But is it safe to use them on your hair at those heats?

Joanne C., Newtown, NSW

A: Dear Joanne,

What a great question! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed researching something that is more chic than geek. Thank you.

This is a hot topic indeed. The plates on a ceramic hair straightener can reach temperatures of 200-plus degrees Celsius. It is only natural to assume that they could dry out or even burn your hair.

I didn’t know the answer to your question off the top of my head (excuse the pun). So I called a friend of a friend who owns a hairdressing salon in Sydney and has worked in the industry for 27 years.

A hair straightener will help you tame wayward locks; just don't overdo it.

Ostensibly, ceramic hair straighteners are completely safe, she explained. However, to avoid damage to your hair, they must be used properly and appropriately.

What does this mean? Well, you can compare using a hair straightener to lying on the beach in the hot sun. You wouldn’t do this every day, and you certainly wouldn’t do it without wearing full-strength sunscreen. You’d also exercise caution if your skin was delicate in some way.

Similarly, it’s probably not advisable to use a ceramic hair straightener on a daily basis; over time this can parch your locks. You should also use a spray-on “primer”, which shields your hair from the direct heat of the plates by coating it with silicon.

Additionally, your hair may be more prone to heat damage if it’s fine or coloured. Bleached hair, in particular, is “brittle” and therefore more susceptible. Handle with care.

I agree with you, Joanne, that hair straighteners are a modern marvel. Follow these simple guidelines and you will have tresses without distress.

Yours in simplified technology,

Ms Connected

For her contribution to Ms Connected, Joanne has a LIFE gift pack from Sasy n Savy Aromatherapy valued at over $90. The Live-Inspire-Feel good-Empower pack includes massage oil, floral spray, candles, essential oil and incense sticks with a ceramic holder. Enjoy, Joanne!

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