Style' em SLEEK

Learn how to choose the perfect straighteners from our hair experts, as Kanishka Ramchandani gets them to divulge secrets that can help transform your styling game.

For a hairdresser, picking the right hair straightener is like a chef choosing their perfect knife – it’s non-negotiable! The wrong tool can turn sleek, glossy dreams into frizzy nightmares faster than you can say ‘bad hair day.’ You need that pro-grade straightener with just the right heat settings, smooth plates and even heat distribution, because a disappointed client is simply not an option.

Versatility, lightweight and ergonomic are keywords that you need to look for while investing in hair straighteners for salon use. We bring you hair experts who share their secrets of mastering the art of picking the right tools in your hairdressing arsenal. Read on to learn more from their experience:

HARDIK MAALDE, FOUNDER, HAIR CASTLE SALON

“When selecting a hair straightener for in-salon use, I prioritise versatility and durability. The tool must cater to different hair types, so I look for adjustable temperature settings to accommodate finer or thicker hair without causing damage. Additionally, the plates are important—ceramic or titanium plates help ensure even heat distribution and smooth styling. I also consider the straightener’s ergonomics, as it needs to be comfortable for extended use.

When ordering straighteners for my team, I look at ease of use, temperature control and reliability.

The straightener must be lightweight and ergonomic, as hairstylists work long hours, and comfort is crucial. I also ensure the model has safety features like auto shut-off and a range of heat settings. Lastly, I consider the warranty and brand reputation, as I want tools that last and perform consistently.

My advice to hairstylists is to always use the right heat setting for the hair type they’re working with and never skip heat protection products. Even with professional tools, repeated exposure to high heat can lead to damage, if not used correctly. It’s also essential to regularly clean and maintain straighteners, as product build-up can reduce their effectiveness and even cause uneven heat distribution.”

The plates are important— ceramic or titanium plates help ensure even heat distribution and smooth styling

RUTH D’SOUZA, HAIR TECHNICAL HEAD, JUICE SALONS

“Look for a straightener with ceramic, titanium or tourmaline plates as well as adjustable heat, ergonomic design, fast heat-up time and safety features like auto shut-off. While ordering straighteners for my team, I consider the team’s skill level, hair types serviced, budget, durability and their feedback.

The advice that I would like to give to hairstylists that use straighteners frequently – always use a heat protectant, avoid overusing heat, clean the straightener regularly, work with small sections and invest in high-quality professional tools.”

SHAFI NABIULLA SALMANI (LEFT), CREATIVE STYLIST, AND SHOAIB SALMANI, SENIOR STYLIST, LEMON SALONS

“First and foremost, a hair straightener should be sleek. Its plate should be good and durable as it is the first thing that gets damaged. If you choose a straightener with low-grade plates to save money, you may end up providing a dissatisfactory service to your client.

Before purchasing straighteners for our team at the salon, we take a group meeting to understand their requirements and brand preferences. Since we cannot order these appliances again and again, we have to make sure we are ordering the ones that are long lasting.

Since the hair straightener is a heat-based appliance, it tends to damage the hair. It is, therefore, advisable that stylists make use of heat protection products on the client’s hair. We advise all our teammates to use proper heat protection products and to thoroughly clean the straightener before and after use, as hygiene plays a major role in the salon industry. Also, it is important to set the degrees according to the thickness of the client’s hair.”