Straightening thick and wavy hair can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’ve been dreaming of silky smooth hair, the solution is a proper hair straightener that works with your hair type.
You probably already know how important it is to use a proper hair dryer, and we already handpicked the best hair dryers for damaged hair. This is an important tool to drying your hair quickly and easily, before using the straightener to even out waves and get that fabulous look you’ve been desiring for such a long time.
We already have guides on finding the best hair straighteners for curling, and if you have thin hair you should look into these hair straighteners. There’s basically one for every type of hair, so make sure you pick the right one.
This buying guide focusses on hair straighteners for thick wavy hair, so read and see our recommendations!
Our Top Picks
Remington Shine Therapy S9531 (2-inch)
- 2-inch floating ceramic plates
- Argan oil and keratin infusion
- Digital temperature control: 300°F–450°F
- Automatic shutoff after one hour
The Remington Shine Therapy S9531 has wide 2-inch plates, making it an option to consider for longer, thick or wavy hair. Choose this wider model when covering larger sections matters more than precise work around short layers or bangs.
The floating ceramic plates are infused with argan oil, keratin and a micro-conditioner. Digital controls let you adjust the temperature from 300°F to 450°F, and the temperature lock helps prevent accidental changes.
Use it on dry, detangled hair and work in manageable sections. Start with an appropriate lower setting and test a small section before styling the rest; heated plates can still damage hair.
Before buying: The linked US model uses 120V power. It is not a dual-voltage travel straightener. The 2-inch plates are wider than the 1-inch model below.
Specifications
- Model: S9531 / Shine Therapy
- Plate width: 2 inches
- Temperature range: 300°F–450°F
- Automatic shutoff: approximately 60 minutes
Remington Anti-Static S5502 (1-inch)
- 1-inch floating ceramic plates
- Anti-static technology
- Eight digital heat settings, up to 450°F
- 30-second heat-up and 60-minute auto shutoff
The Remington Anti-Static S5502 uses narrower 1-inch floating ceramic plates with a titanium protection coating. It offers more precise handling around smaller sections, short layers and bangs than the 2-inch model above, while still providing adjustable heat for thicker hair.
The current linked model has eight digital temperature settings from 310°F to 450°F, an LCD display and a temperature lock. It heats up in approximately 30 seconds and switches off automatically after about one hour.
Use on dry, detangled hair. Test the temperature on a small section first and avoid holding the plates in one spot. Anti-static technology does not make heat styling damage-free.
Before buying: This is the S5502 1-inch version shown in the product photo. The linked US model uses 120V power.
Specifications
- Model: S5502 / Anti-Static
- Plate width: 1 inch
- Temperature range: 310°F–450°F; eight settings
- Automatic shutoff: approximately 60 minutes
Hair Straighteners FAQs
Q. How do I know that a hair straightener for thick hair is appropriate for my hair?
A. Pick a hair straightener that is befitting thick hair. Then, use the below checklist to confirm that it is ideal for you:
- Is it your right size?
Flat irons vary in widths and sizes to suit both long and short thick wavy hair. Pick a small version of the flat iron you want if you have spikes and bangs. Long thick hair calls for more lengthy hair straighteners.
- Does it have all the features to deliver straight strands? The typical traits include:
- Meet an optimal temperature of between 350F and 450F for best results
- Adjustable heat settings to set the temperature ideal for your hair
- Bigger plates for longer hair
- Interchangeable plates for versatile use
- Negative ion technology that leaves a shine on thick curly hair
- A comfortable cord length that allows you to maneuver the flat iron with ease
- A non-slip grip
- Lightweight especially when you intend to use the flat iron for extended periods
- Digital fingertip controls on either side of the hair straightener. These prevent accidental adjusting of the heat settings
- Is it suitable for your lifestyle?
Do you live a fast-paced lifestyle? Then, pick a hair straightener with instant heat functions. It will save you time when preparing for work every morning. If you are a swimmer or get your hair wet quite often, go for a flat iron with in-built comb teeth. It will help you detangle your hair faster. Other flat irons include the cordless alternatives. They are great for persons who multitask when doing their hair. Finally, are you a backpacker? Insist on flat irons with extended manufacturer warranties. They will save you money as they last for several years.
Q. What are the best heating plates a hair straightener for thick wavy hair should have?
A. The ceramic and titanium plates are popular with flat irons for thick hair or coarse hair. First, ceramic plates feature in affordable flat irons. They redistribute infrared heat energy consistently and evenly along all strands. And, since they do not overheat, they are ideal for all types of hair.
Ceramic plates are very smooth. Hence, they will not pull or snag on thick hair. This way, there are no split ends or flyaways. Besides, it saves time when working on kinky hair. Yet, ceramic blades can be delicate. They often chip or break due to poor handling.
Unless it is a full ceramic plate and not a ceramic-coated plate, the ceramic coating tends to peel off over time. Hence, if you opt for flat irons with ceramic plates, insist on the full ceramic ones.
In contrast, high-end flat irons use titanium plates. They heat up faster than the ceramic ones. Hence, they are your best pick for thick wavy hair. Plus, they keep their heat for longer. That way, you’ll achieve consistent straight strands in the shortest time possible.
All in all, titanium blades are of lightweight design. Hence, they are manageable on demanding strands. Next, they use an ionic charge that keeps the hair smooth. In turn, you’ll run fewer strokes and still achieve the results you want.
Final Note
Most manufacturers vouch for their products as the best to straighten your type of hair. Yet, when you go shopping with an informed perspective, it is easy to sift through the fake and the real deal. We hope this guide is equipping you for a better shopping experience.