Your flat iron is one of the most important tools in your beauty arsenal. It can help you achieve sleek, straight hair or bouncy curls. So, when should you replace your flat iron? Keep reading for our guide on when to upgrade your styling tool!
When should you replace your flat iron?
To get this question out of the way quickly, you should replace your flat iron every 2-3 years. Obviously, this will depend on a variety of factors, such as the quality of the flat iron, how much you use it, and how well you have taken care of it.
People who buy cheaper brands (no shame in being thrifty!), use their flat iron extremely often, or have a habit of dropping their flat iron should expect their flat iron to last a very short time.
The lifespan of a flat iron depends on how often you use it and how well you take care of it. If you use your flat iron daily, you can expect it to last for about two years. But if you only use it once a week or so, it could last for up to five years. Of course, the quality of the flat iron will also play a role in how long it lasts.
If you have taken good care of your flat iron and it’s still not working as well as it used to, it might be time for an upgrade. The same goes for if your flat iron is more than three years old.
How often should you use a flat iron?
How often you should use a flat iron really depends on your hair type. If you have thin or fine hair, you can get away with using a flat iron every day. But if you have thick or coarse hair, you might want to give your strands a break in between styling sessions.
Using a flat iron too often can damage your hair, so it’s important to find a balance that works for you. If you’re not sure how often to use your flat iron, err on the side of caution and give your hair a break every other day or so.
How do you know if you need a new straightener?
- – Your straightener is more than three years old
- – The plates are starting to wear down
- – It’s not heating up as well as it used to
- – You’re getting snags in your hair
- – The wire is coming loose
If you’re having any of these issues with your flat iron, it might be time for an upgrade. A new flat iron can make a world of difference when it comes to your hair styling routine!
If your flat iron is more than three years old, it’s probably time for an upgrade. The same goes for if you notice that your flat iron isn’t working as well as it used to.
For example, if it takes longer to heat up than it used to, it’s not reaching the temperature it used to, or it’s not straightening your hair as well as it used to, it might be time for a new one.
If you’re not sure whether or not your flat iron needs to be replaced, try using it on a small section of hair to see how well it works.
One thing that you should definitely look out for is if your straightener is blinking when you are using it. Normally, straighteners will stop blinking once the correct temperature has been reached, if it is blinking while you are using it there is a chance that the proper heat isn’t being reached which could damage your hair!
Older flat irons will often have plates that start to lift up after lots of use. This can cause hair snagging, which is not only painful but damaging. If your hair is getting snagged in your straightener, it is probably time for an upgrade!
Can old straighteners damage your hair?
Yes, old hair straighteners can definitely damage your hair. Straighteners that are used past their expiration dates will often cause hair breakage and do more harm to your hair (and appearance!) than good.
How to make flat irons last longer
If you want your flat iron to last as long as possible, there are a few things you can do to extend its lifespan.
First, invest in a good quality flat iron. This might seem like an obvious tip, but it’s important! Cheap straighteners are more likely to break or damage your hair.
Second, be sure to clean your flat iron regularly. This will help to remove any build-up on the plates that could cause snagging or damage to your hair.
Third, use a heat protectant spray before using your flat iron. This will help to protect your hair from the high heat of the straightener.
Finally, be sure to unplug your flat iron when you’re finished using it. This will help to prolong its lifespan.
By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your flat iron and keep your hair looking its best!
What to do when it is time to replace a straightener?
If you’ve determined that it is time for you to replace your straightener, you should think about what you want out of your new one. Do you want a cheap straightener that you will replace every year or two? Or do you want a high-quality brand that will last longer but will also be more expensive?
You might even have very specific needs for a straightener. Like one for frizzy hair, or one that will do the least amount of damage to your hair.
We have many reviews of many different types of flat irons on our site, so check out our flat iron page if you want to go through all of them yourself!
Once you’ve decided on a few options, it’s time to start shopping around! You can find flat irons at most drugstores or beauty supply stores. If you want a more high-end option, you can look into department stores or online retailers.
Be sure to read the reviews before making your final decision. And always remember to use a heat protectant spray before using your flat iron to help keep your hair healthy and damage-free!
Conclusion
If you notice that your flat iron isn’t working as well as it used to, it might be time for a new one. Be sure to look out for signs that your straightener needs to be replaced, like blinking lights or lifting plates. You should also regularly clean your flat iron and use a heat protectant spray before using it. If you follow these tips, you can help to extend the life of your flat iron and keep your hair looking its best!
I wish you luck in all of your beauty endeavors!