What tool consists of two heated plates used to straighten and silk hair?

• A. Flat iron
• B. Curling iron
• C. Hair straightening comb
• D. Heat press

Answer: (A)

Placing two heated plates together and sliding them down the hair is the action that straightens and smooths it. This tool, a flat iron, works by heating the hair and applying pressure as you glide it along each section. The heat temporarily softens the keratin bonds in the strand, and the plate pressure flattens the cuticle, so the hair lies straight and silky once it cools.

This is different from a curling iron, which uses a curved barrel to bend hair into curls; a heated comb, which uses teeth to smooth or straighten in a combing motion; and a heat press, which refers to plate-bearing devices that can press items flat (and isn’t the typical tool described for straightening hair). When you want a sleek, straight look, the flat iron is the go-to tool because of its parallel plates and clamping action. Remember to use a heat protectant and work in small sections to minimize damage.