Chi 1" True Ceramic Hair Straightener Review

I've had this iron for about 3 years now. My hair is on the thicker side, in healthy condition, and long. My hair is wavy, and can hold a curl or be straightened without much coaxing, so I'm lucky in that respect. I have to say I'm surprised by some of the negative reviews this product is getting. I think it's amazing and I fell in love when I first got it, for about twice as much from a retail store! I think part of the problem might be lack of product/over-styling that might be contributing to damage. My hairstylist recommended Chi to me.

I don't straighten my hair every day; I would say I use it frequently - maybe twice a week (sometimes more and sometimes less). I try to let my hair air dry before straightening by taking a shower the night before and then styling in the morning with my iron, for example. This tends to reduce the heat stress on my hair and I get less breakage. I also use a hair strengthening spritz and biosilk before and a little after styling just for added protection - and that's in addition to leave-in conditioner and a little smoothing balm after I shower. I don't find that the lack of temperature control is necessarily such a bad thing, since I'm the only one who uses the iron and recommended heat settings on temp-control products tend to be right in the range of 370 anyway for my particular hair type/length (the Chi's apparent temperature).

This product heats up quite quickly. I turn it on while doing my make-up in the morning and it's more than ready by the time I do my hair. It only takes me about 10 minutes to do all of my hair, and it's midway down my back. It leaves it shiny, smooth and very straight - also very resistant to any humidity or moisture from the rain. I do find I have to be more careful in the winter, since I live in Canada and it can really dry out my hair at this time. For my hair type this product is fantastic, and I would highly recommend. If your hair is damaged or fine then I'd suggest something with flexible temp-settings until you know exactly what you're looking for. For people with unruly hair who need to use heat products like this daily, so far this product has been great for me and lasted 3+ years, but I don't think I tax it as much as others might.