When choosing a flat iron, one must consider the several options available. There is a wide array of products out there with different technologies and it is often overwhelming for a buyer who doesn’t know much about hair care. This guide has been created to tackle one of the frequently asked questions when shopping for a flat iron: What is the difference between a Tourmaline and Ceramic coated plate?
Tourmaline is an actual crystal that is ground up finely and then applied to cover the plates of a flat iron. The crystal in this form is known for its claimed ability to produce a high volume of negative ions when combined with heat. Negative ions are said to enable hair to be straightened quicker, thus producing less heat damage to the hair cuticle. This creates the smooth, silky final result many aim for when using a flat iron. These types of plates are a newer trend within the hair industry and have been used by several different manufacturers from CHI, to T3. T3 was actually the first company to patent this coating and use it on their Tourmaline series.

Ceramic plates are perhaps more widely known for their ability to quickly heat. Some ceramic plates are known to reach their highest temperature within 10 seconds! This produces quick straightening results for users. Ceramic is also known for its ability to distribute heat evenly, which reduces the amount of time a person would have to run the iron over their hair and this again prevents excessive heat damage to the hair cuticle.
Both types of material are very effective in hair straightening and are highly recommended.
(For help choosing the best iron for your hair, see our other eBay Guide: Choosing the Right Flat Iron For Your Hair Type )
Tourmaline is an actual crystal that is ground up finely and then applied to cover the plates of a flat iron. The crystal in this form is known for its claimed ability to produce a high volume of negative ions when combined with heat. Negative ions are said to enable hair to be straightened quicker, thus producing less heat damage to the hair cuticle. This creates the smooth, silky final result many aim for when using a flat iron. These types of plates are a newer trend within the hair industry and have been used by several different manufacturers from CHI, to T3. T3 was actually the first company to patent this coating and use it on their Tourmaline series.
Ceramic plates are perhaps more widely known for their ability to quickly heat. Some ceramic plates are known to reach their highest temperature within 10 seconds! This produces quick straightening results for users. Ceramic is also known for its ability to distribute heat evenly, which reduces the amount of time a person would have to run the iron over their hair and this again prevents excessive heat damage to the hair cuticle.
Both types of material are very effective in hair straightening and are highly recommended.
(For help choosing the best iron for your hair, see our other eBay Guide: Choosing the Right Flat Iron For Your Hair Type )
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Guide created: 03/03/09 (updated 05/09/09)

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