Given the popularity of flat irons as the go to tool for hair styling, concerns regarding hair damage have however been a point of contention. Emerging out of the classic flat iron, which is steam based, has come a claim of less aggressiveness on a person’s hair. But do steam hair curling iron actually damage a person’s hair less in comparison to the classic ones? In this article, we’ll break down the key differences, advantages, and disadvantages of both tools in order to let you make an educated decision.

The Mechanism Behind Flat Irons

Classic Flat Irons

Classic flat irons are known to straights hair with the use of heated plates which alters hydrogen bonds within the hair shaft. This causes the hair to become more pliable resulting it to have a different texture wherein it can be modeled into a straightened one. Such tools are usually inclusive of adjustable heat settings, plates made from ceramic or titanium and also ionic technology to help reduce frizz on the hair.

Flat hair iron with steam

In the simplest of terms, steam hair flat iron are straighteners that use water vapor as part of the straightening process. These devices come with an in-built water tank that can produce steam, which is then released from vents situated close to the heat plates. The steam aids in the moisturizing of the hair during the styling process, thus minimizing the amount of dryness and damage caused due to the heating process. Most steam flat irons are designed to achieve maximum straightening results with minimal evaporation of hair moisture.

The Science of Hair Damage

The most common source of jokes and irony when it comes to hair care; the flat iron. Of course we know how there is so much damage that can happen due to the hair styling tool being used and the main culprit for that is Heat, Hatta-ray. Too much heat can cause a loss of hydration, degradation of keratin, and even lift the cuticle (the outermost layer) or break it causing split ends, frizz, and dryness. Both steam and classic flat irons use heat but the method of application is different which changes the degree of damage and burn.

Compared and Contrasting Classic Flat Irons and Steam Flat Irons

1. Moisture Retention
   • Steam hair flat iron : The aim of these irons is to continuously prevent or minimize the loss of moisture during the hair styling procedure through the application of steam. That, theoretically, prevents hair from becoming too brittle or dry.
   • Classic Flat Irons: These types of irons treat hair by applying direct heat which makes the moisture within the hair shaft to evaporate, making hair more fragile and rough.
2. Temperature Requirements
   • Steam hair flat iron: Do not require higher temperatures to get the same results as classic flat irons. The presence of steam on the hair makes the hair to be more relaxed and not needing a lot of heat.
   • Classic Flat Irons: Can be quite the opposite especially with thick or coarse hair type. They tend to require greater temperature settings which in turn causes greater chances of heat damage.
3. Glide and Smoothness
   • Steam hair flat iron: Steam assist in lubrication by simply allowing the hair plates to slide or glide easily, easing movement and surface area over the hair thus reducing friction and chances of breakage.
   • Classic Flat Irons: On the other hand, being devoid of steam, classic styles of flat irons can be more heat damaging to hair especially textured or dry hair due to the excess amount of friction created.
4. Hair Type Applicability

• Steam hair flat iron: Ideal for hair that is too curly, dry or too damaged since steam photos provide moisture and control frizz.
• Classic Flat Irons: They are used on almost all hair types but are not suitable for dry or even brittle hair.

Pros of Steam hair flat iron

1. Adding Water While Styling

Steam flat irons, on one hand, make hair every strand moist while ensuring that the moisture within the hair is not lost, thereby preventing hair from drying up especially to those who have coarse and frizzled hair.

2. Low Heat Application

Applying traowsheat and steam together means that the steaming only takes place on a maximum of fifty percent of the hair allowing all strands of hair to remain intact.

3. Effective Styling Products

Once steam is directed onto straightened hair it takes an extended time to curl back so even in humid conditions Straightened hair does not curl up again.

4. Reduced Damage Towards the Bath

Since steam does not let too much water be absorbed, steam flat irons are less likely to harm the hair cuticle leading to lower damage in the long term.

Cons of Classic Flat Irons

1. Dissimilar Devices to Choose From

Classic flat irons are available in a variety of styles as well as being straight within themselves, there are a number of ways that hairs can be styled as well as curled or straightened at different temperatures.

2. Economy

Classic flat irons are easier to afford as they are made of cheaper materials than steam models allowing them to reach a larger market.

3. Size

These are great flat iron for traveling since they are even compact than the steam ones as they do not have water reservoirs.

4. Enhanced Technology

I believe a number of classic style flat irons would have pioneered technology like ionic or tourmaline plates, which eliminate frizz and increase sheen on hair, making the tool more effective.

Drawbacks of Flat Irons with Steamer

1. Expensive

As with all the appliances, steam operated flat irons are more expensive as compared to classic flat irons due to the technology involved.

2. Care

The water reservoir needs to be serviced and filled on a regular basis otherwise the iron would stop functioning properly which may be of concern as its users may forget to do so.

3. Adjustment

To be able to use Steam flat irons you have to either adjust how you use them or adjust your outlook on how to properly use them, which may be a challenge for some users.

4. Type of Hair

For Caucasian or Asian hair steam flat irons would do the job however if your hair texture is thicker steam flat irons may not work that efficiently.

Flat Classic Irons Drawbacks

1. Might damage hair

If inappropriately utilized, these dry, fragile hair flat classic irons might severely impact, resulting in significant damage and increasing temperature even more.

2. Dehydration

Natural hair loss of moisture due to exposure of direct heat can be a cause of dryness and brittleness. Not just brittle and dry, hair could disintegrate. It’s vital when doing hair procedures that one is careful of the weapon of choice.

3. Friction Damage

When flat Irons are used without Steam Effect, there is a possibility of breakage from Friction which is a common norm.

Tips for Limiting Damage with Any Flat Iron

It is appropriate to say that Protect All You Want, but you cannot escape the heat. Here are a few ways for preserving your hair.

1. Use Collection of Hot Styling Products

An easy way of protecting oneself from heat would be the use of products such as ‘a heat protectant spray’ or a serum.

2. Heat Settings Should be Balanced

Use the suitable temperatures according to the subtype of the hairs. Do not overheat as it could cause damage.

3. Overuse Should Be Avoided Ensure that you don’t use the flat irons frequently because this too contributes to heat abuse-gaining.
4. Buy Good Tools In order to avoid curly hair, buy flat irons with ceramic or tourmaline plates for better heating and distribution.
5. Ensure Moisture Retention on Hair Use moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, and similar products to help replace the lost moisture in hair.

Conclusion

From the perspective of safety, steam flat irons are better than the classic ones since they are able to ensure that the hair has enough moisture while styling which helps to reduce the damage. Nevertheless, both tools have their downsides and benefits, and which one will work best for you will depend on the kind of hair you have and the style you want to have. However, no matter the tool used, it will always help to see to proper hair care, and this includes avoidance of excessive heating so that your hair will remain beautiful and healthy.