a girl showing best flat iron for thick course hair

Best Flat Iron for Thick Hair: Our Top Picks

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Thick hair can be a blessing and a curse. While it looks great, it can be a hassle to style. It’s no secret that flat irons are a go-to tool for many with thick hair. However, not all flat irons are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can lead to heat damage, frizz, and breakage.

a girl showing best flat iron for thick course hair

When it comes to the best flat iron for thick hair, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the plate material is crucial. Ceramic plates are a popular choice as they distribute heat evenly and protect hair from damage. Titanium plates, on the other hand, are great for those with coarse hair as they heat up quickly and retain heat well. Secondly, the size of the plates is important. For thick hair, wider plates are better as they can cover more surface area and save time.

After researching and testing various flat irons, we’ve narrowed down the top contenders for the best flat iron for thick hair. Whether you’re looking for salon-quality results or a budget-friendly option, we’ve got you covered.

*This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. I only recommmend products that I use, love, or thoroughly researched.

Best Flat Irons for Thick Course Hair

If you have thick hair, you know how difficult it can be to find a flat iron that can straighten your locks without frying them. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best flat irons for thick hair. We’ve tested and researched the top products on the market to bring you our top picks. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end tool, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect flat iron for your thick hair.

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Hair Straightener

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Hair Straightener

If you’re looking for a high-quality flat iron that can handle thick hair, the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Hair Straightener might be just what you need.

Pros

  • High heat levels provide excellent straightening results
  • Nano Titanium technology protects hair from damage
  • Works on all hair types

Cons

  • Power switch is on the side of the handle, which can be annoying
  • Some users have reported heat damage with prolonged use
  • Price is on the higher side

We’ve had the chance to use this flat iron on a variety of hair types, and we’re impressed with the results. The high heat levels allow for quick straightening, and the Nano Titanium technology helps protect hair from damage. Plus, it works on all types of hair, from fine to thick and curly.

That said, the power switch is on the side of the handle, which can be frustrating if you accidentally turn it off while using it. Additionally, some users have reported heat damage with prolonged use, so be sure to use heat protectant products and not overuse the flat iron. Finally, the price is on the higher side, so it might not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we recommend the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Hair Straightener for those looking for a high-quality, versatile flat iron that can handle thick hair.

  • The BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin hair straightener has a slim design that helps eliminate hand fatigue while increasing styling flexibility. Create pin-straight styles with this fast-performing flat iron.
  • High heat levels provide excellent straightening results while Nano Titanium technology protects hair from damage.Heat-resistant ryton housing
  • Use this Nano Titanium flat iron to smooth & straighten hair. Can also be used to create loose, beachy waves.
  • Nano titanium plates
  • Emits negative ions and maximum far-infrared heat for fast, gentle straightening without damaging hair
  • LED temperature settings up to 450 degrees, for faster straightening or curling
  • Glides through hair; no pulling
  • Ultra-thin and ultra-lightweight

ghd Duet Style | 2-in-1 Flat Iron Hair Straightener + Hair Dryer, Hot Air Styler to Transform Hair from Wet to Styled White

ghd Duet Style | 2-in-1 Flat Iron Hair Straightener + Hair Dryer, Hot Air Styler to Transform Hair from Wet to Styled White

If you’re looking for a versatile styling tool that can dry and style your hair at the same time, then the ghd Duet Style is worth considering.

Pros

  • The Shine Shot feature gives instant frizz-free hair, 2x more shine, and 3.5x more hair alignment.
  • The 2-in-1 design saves time and space in your hair styling routine.
  • The ghd Duet Style is made with quality materials and has a sleek, stylish design.

Cons

  • It takes longer to dry and style hair than using separate tools.
  • The flat iron doesn’t reach the roots of your hair.
  • The ghd Duet Style is expensive compared to other styling tools.

We tested the ghd Duet Style and found that it’s a well-made, high-quality styling tool that delivers on its promises. The Shine Shot feature gave our hair a noticeable shine and made it less frizzy. The 2-in-1 design is convenient for travel or when you’re short on time, but it does take longer to dry and style your hair compared to using separate tools.

The flat iron doesn’t reach the roots of your hair, but it’s still effective at straightening and smoothing out the length of your hair. The ghd Duet Style is expensive compared to other styling tools, but if you’re looking for a high-end, all-in-one styling tool, then it’s worth the investment.

Overall, we recommend the ghd Duet Style for anyone who wants a versatile styling tool that can dry and style their hair at the same time, and who is willing to invest in a quality, high-end product.

  • DRY & STYLE WITH JUST ONE TOOL ― Revolutionary air-fusion technology dries and straightens hair at the same time, quickly transforming hair from wet to styled. Simplify your hair routine with no damage..Cord length : 2.7m
  • LUXURIOUS RESULTS EVERYDAY ― Unprecedented softness for up to 48 hours while protecting your hair's natural moisture. Unique Shine Shot mode for dry hair only transforms into a ghd styler at the optimum styling temperature of 365-degrees F with no air to deliver instant frizz-free hair, 2x more shine, and 3.5x more hair alignment.
  • UNCOMPROMISING STYLE ― Advanced floating plates with ultra-glass coating ensure incredibly smooth and snag-free gliding for a seamless styling experience.
  • ECO-FRIENDLY STYLING & LOW SOUND EXPERIENCE ― Unique eco-friendly aerodynamics minimize energy waste for up to 30% less energy consumption along with custom-made acoustic system offering lower sound levels for a more pleasant and refined styling experience at home or in the salon.
  • NO DAMAGE ― Root drying vents direct airflow outwards at a lower temperature for optimal root drying without extreme heat and no damage to your hair.
  • Allure Best of Beauty 2023 Winner

CHI Original Ceramic Hair Straightening Flat Iron

CHI Original Ceramic Hair Straightening Flat Iron

We highly recommend the CHI Original Ceramic Hair Straightening Flat Iron for thick hair. This versatile styling tool is perfect for creating silky, shiny, and frizz-free hair instantly.

Pros

  • The 1” ceramic floating plates create smooth, silky shiny and frizz-free hair instantly.
  • The flat iron is a versatile styling tool that can be used to flip, curl, and style hair.
  • The CHI Original Ceramic Hair Straightening Flat Iron heats up quickly and evenly, making it easy to use.

Cons

  • The flat iron only has one temperature setting, which may not be suitable for all hair types.
  • The price point is higher than some other flat irons on the market.
  • The flat iron may not be as durable as some other models.

We were impressed with how well the CHI Original Ceramic Hair Straightening Flat Iron worked on our thick hair. The ceramic plates glided effortlessly through our hair, creating a smooth and sleek finish. We also appreciated the flash-quick heating, which meant we didn’t have to wait long to start styling our hair.

Overall, we think the CHI Original Ceramic Hair Straightening Flat Iron is a great investment for anyone with thick hair who wants to achieve a professional-looking style at home. With its versatile styling capabilities and advanced ceramic technology, this flat iron is sure to become a staple in your hair care routine.

  • Professional salon model hair styling iron.Power source : Corded Electric.
  • 1” ceramic plates for easy glide
  • Versatile styling tool: Flip, Curl & Style
  • Creates silky hair instantly
  • Flash quick heating, up to 392°F

VANESSA PRO Hair Straightener Flat Iron

VANESSA PRO Hair Straightener Flat Iron

If you’re looking for a flat iron that can straighten and curl your hair with ease, then you should definitely consider the VANESSA PRO Hair Straightener Flat Iron.

Pros

  • The titanium plate with Argan oil provides faster straightening and increased shine while high levels of negative ions produce silky, smooth, and conditioned hair.
  • The human-factor engineering designed shape helps you relax your arm when you styling, and the floating plates glide through hair, smoothing and polishing each strand, creating the look you want in just one pass that makes styling easier than ever.
  • The invisible screen shows only after turned on, helping you set the desired temperature. With 11 temperature settings (265℉-450℉) for all hair types, it leaves your hair looking polished and healthy after you find the proper heat setting for your hair.

Cons

  • The flat iron does not run through hair smoothly.
  • It’s a bit rough when pulling through hair.
  • The power button may malfunction after a few years of use.

We recently tried out this flat iron, and we have to say, we’re impressed. The titanium plate with Argan oil really does provide faster straightening and increased shine, and we noticed that our hair felt silky and smooth after using it. We also loved the human-factor engineering designed shape, which made it easy to relax our arm while styling, and the floating plates glided through our hair smoothly.

The invisible screen was also a nice touch, and we appreciated the 11 temperature settings, which allowed us to find the perfect heat setting for our hair type. However, we did notice that the flat iron didn’t run through our hair as smoothly as we would have liked, and it was a bit rough when pulling through our hair.

Overall, we think this is a great flat iron for those with thick hair who want to straighten and curl their hair with ease. It’s powerful, easy to use, and comes with a range of features that make styling a breeze. If you’re in the market for a new flat iron, we definitely recommend giving this one a try.

  • 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃'𝐒 𝐋𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄: The Titanium Plate with Argan Oil provides faster straightening and increased shine while high levels of negative ions produce silky, smooth and conditioned hair. This Damage-free Flat Iron helps retain moisture and enhances your hair long-term.
  • 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐄𝐑 𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐘 𝐓𝐎 𝐔𝐒𝐄: The Human-factor Engineering Designed Shape helps you relax your arm when you styling. The floating plates glide through hair, smoothing and polishing each strand, Create the look you want in just 1 pass that makes styling easier than ever.
  • 𝐏𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐑𝐅𝐔𝐋 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐔𝐏: The Invisible Screen shows only after turned on helps you set desired temperature, 11 temperature settings(265℉-450℉) for all hair types, it leaves your hair looking polished and healthy after you find the proper heat setting for your hair.
  • 𝐃𝐔𝐑𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐘: Vanessa Flat Iron uses sturdy materials with a durable design to ensure a long service life of over 3 years. The important convenience features as well as good for storage like Swivel Cord, Dual Voltage and Automatic Shut-off are included.
  • 𝐌𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈 𝐓𝐀𝐒𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐎𝐎𝐋: Get silky-smooth straight or bouncy dreamy curls in just one tool! Vanessa works perfectly as a Flat Iron, Meanwhile it can be used as a Curling Iron, meeting your different needs of straightening or curling your hair.

CHI G2 Professional Hair Straightener

CHI G2 Professional Hair Straightener

We highly recommend the CHI G2 Professional Hair Straightener for those with thick hair. The titanium infused ceramic plates add durability and provide an even smoother glide. The color-coded LCD screen allows for proper temperature setting for fine, medium, and coarse hair up to 425°F.

Pros

  • The 1.25″ Ceramic & Titanium Infused Plates are perfect for thick hair.
  • The new ‘mode’ button with preset temperatures makes it easier to use.
  • The 40 second heat up time is convenient for those in a hurry.

Cons

  • The cord is not very long and may be difficult to use for those with outlets far from the mirror.
  • The price may be a bit high for some budgets.
  • The straightener may not work as well on very curly hair.

We were impressed with the CHI G2 Professional Hair Straightener. It heats up quickly and the ceramic heater with advanced technology ensures that the temperature is consistent throughout use. The dual voltage and red thermal mat included make it perfect for travel. The only downside is the cord length, which may be inconvenient for those with outlets far from the mirror. Overall, this is a great investment for those with thick hair who want a high-quality straightener.

  • 1.25" Ceramic & Titanium Infused Plates
  • New 'mode' button with preset temperatures
  • 40 second heat up

Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron

Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly flat iron that works well on thick hair, the Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron is worth considering.

Pros

  • The double ceramic plates deliver even heat and leave hair shiny and frizz-free.
  • The extra-long floating plates make styling faster and easier with less damage.
  • With 5 heat settings, including a high heat setting of 410°F, you can customize the temperature to your hair type.

Cons

  • The plates are only 1 inch wide, which may not work as well for those with very long or very thick hair.
  • Some users have reported a burning smell when using the iron.
  • The iron may not last as long as more expensive models.

We were pleasantly surprised by how well the Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron worked on our thick hair. The plates heated up quickly and stayed hot, making it easy to style our hair in just a few passes. The extra-long plates were a nice touch, as they made it easy to style larger sections of hair at once. We also appreciated the 5 heat settings, which allowed us to find the perfect temperature for our hair type.

That being said, the 1 inch plates may not work as well for those with very long or very thick hair, as it can take longer to style larger sections. Additionally, some users have reported a burning smell when using the iron, which can be concerning. Finally, while the Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron is a great budget-friendly option, it may not last as long as more expensive models.

Overall, we would recommend the Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron to anyone looking for a budget-friendly flat iron that works well on thick hair. Just be aware of the potential downsides before making your purchase.

  • Double Ceramic Flat Iron: This flat iron features 1 inch double ceramic coated plates. Straighten hair or create loose, beachy waves. The higher ceramic content delivers gentle, even heat and frizz-free shine
  • Styling Control: This ceramic flat iron has extra long floating plates for faster styling with less damage, 5 heat settings including a high heat setting of 410°F, and uniform heat recovery for consistent styling. Care and Cleaning: Spot or Wipe Clean
  • Wavy or Sleek: Whether you want to add volume and flip or create pin straight styles, Conair's full line of ceramic, double ceramic, tourmaline ceramic, and titanium flat irons has you covered
  • Innovative Styling Tools: From curling irons, hot rollers, and detangling brushes to hair dryers, flat irons, and more, Conair makes high-quality grooming and haircare tools for men and women
  • Conair Hair Care: Since 1959, we have made innovative small appliances, hair styling tools, and more. Our hair care line includes high-quality hair dryers, brushes, styling tools, and hair accessories

Wavytalk Hair Straightener

Wavytalk Hair Straightener

If you’re looking for a flat iron that can handle thick, curly hair, the Wavytalk Hair Straightener is a great option.

Pros

  • The 1.75 inch wide titanium plates heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly, making it easy to style a lot of hair at once.
  • With adjustable temperature settings ranging from 170°F to 450°F, you can customize the heat to your hair’s needs.
  • The titanium plates provide salon-level styling, leaving your hair looking silky-smooth and healthy.

Cons

  • The auto shut-off feature can be inconvenient if you’re in the middle of styling your hair and need to take a break.
  • The straightener may not be as effective on very fine or thin hair, as it’s designed to handle thicker, coarser hair.
  • The price point may be higher than some other flat irons on the market.

We were impressed with the Wavytalk Hair Straightener’s performance on thick, curly hair. The larger plates made it easy to style a lot of hair at once, and the adjustable temperature settings allowed us to customize the heat to our hair’s needs. The titanium plates provided fantastic heat, leaving our hair looking silky-smooth and healthy.

One thing to keep in mind is that the auto shut-off feature can be a bit inconvenient if you’re in the middle of styling your hair and need to take a break. Additionally, the straightener may not be as effective on very fine or thin hair, as it’s designed to handle thicker, coarser hair. However, if you have thick, curly hair and want a salon-level flat iron that can handle it, the Wavytalk Hair Straightener is a great choice.

  • {Powerful Straightening Capabilities} 1.7 inch wide flat iron is suited for lots of different types of hair, especially thick and curly hair, even type 4C, with it you can style a bunch of more hair once. The larger titanium plates heat up fast and distribute heat evenly, save more time when styling.
  • {Adjustable Temperature Settings} Ranging from 290°F to 450°F, this flat iron allows you to adapt the heat to what your hair needs the most. Freely change to Celsius with just a tap and the straightener has a Digital LCD display that makes it easy to see what temperature setting you’re currently using.
  • {Salon-level of Styling} If you’ve got a mane that can’t be tamed, titanium is the way to go. The titanium plates are highly conductive and provide fantastic heat that deals with even tight coils & curls. Using this titanium flat iron promises a silky-smooth finish. Your hair will look healthy & will be delightful to run your fingers through.
  • {How Practical} The hair straightener adopted advanced digital technology PTC heater and 3D floating plates design, making it heat up quickly and achieve ZERO sticking or pulling, glide smoothly through hair. An auto shut-off that you can set in case you leave it on after 30 to 180 minutes as a safety precaution.
  • {Dual Voltage} Featuring 100-240V worldwide dual voltage, you can enjoy beautiful straight hair both at home and away. Move freely with the 360 degree swivel cord and the safety lock button is convenient for saving space.

Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener Fuchsia, Pink

Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener Fuchsia, Pink

We recommend purchasing the Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener if you have thick hair and want a high-quality, cordless flat iron that delivers professional results.

Pros

  • The cordless feature makes it easy to use and maneuver without getting tangled up in cords.
  • The flexing plates provide even heat distribution and reduce hair breakage.
  • The device heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature throughout use.

Cons

  • The high price point may be a turn-off for some customers.
  • The battery life may not last long enough for those with very thick or long hair.
  • The device may not be suitable for those with fine or thin hair.

We were impressed by the Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener’s performance and results. The cordless feature was a game-changer, allowing us to move around freely without worrying about cords getting in the way. The flexing plates were also a standout feature, providing even heat distribution and reducing hair breakage. We appreciated the quick heat-up time and consistent temperature throughout use.

However, the high price point may be a drawback for some customers, and the battery life may not last long enough for those with very thick or long hair. Additionally, the device may not be suitable for those with fine or thin hair, as it may be too powerful and damaging for their hair type.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener for those with thick hair who are looking for a high-quality, cordless flat iron that delivers professional results.

REMINGTON Shine Therapy Argan Oil & Keratin Infused 2 Inch Hair Straightener/Flat Iron

REMINGTON Shine Therapy Argan Oil & Keratin Infused 2 Inch Hair Straightener/Flat Iron

If you’re looking for a flat iron that can handle thick hair, the REMINGTON Shine Therapy Argan Oil & Keratin Infused 2 Inch Hair Straightener/Flat Iron is a great option.

Pros

  • The advanced ceramic plates are infused with Argan oil, Keratin, and a micro-conditioner, resulting in shinier, smoother hair.
  • The 2x shine-enhancing technology reduces frizz and leaves hair with a radiant shine.
  • The 2 inch wide floating plate makes it easy to glide through thick hair.

Cons

  • The flat iron is a bit heavy, which may be uncomfortable for some users.
  • The cord is a bit short, which may limit your range of motion while styling your hair.
  • The flat iron doesn’t heat up as quickly as some other models on the market.

We were impressed with how well this flat iron worked on thick hair. The advanced ceramic plates made it easy to glide through our hair, and the infused Argan oil and Keratin left our hair looking shinier and smoother. The 2x shine-enhancing technology also helped reduce frizz, which is a common problem for those with thick hair.

While the flat iron is a bit heavy, we didn’t find it to be too uncomfortable to use. However, the short cord may be an issue for some users, as it limits your range of motion while styling your hair. Additionally, the flat iron doesn’t heat up as quickly as some other models on the market, so you may need to wait a bit longer before you can start styling your hair.

Overall, we think the REMINGTON Shine Therapy Argan Oil & Keratin Infused 2 Inch Hair Straightener/Flat Iron is a great choice for those with thick hair. It’s effective at reducing frizz and leaving hair looking shinier and smoother, and the 2 inch wide floating plate makes it easy to use on even the thickest hair.

  • Advanced Ceramic Plates: Dive into a superior styling experience with 9X more ceramic than standard Remington models. Infused with antioxidant-rich Argan oil, protein-packed Keratin, and a magical micro-conditioner for consistently even heat.
  • 2x Shine-Enhancing Technology: Say goodbye to dull, frizzy hair! As you style with this hair iron straightener, the micro-conditioner combines with advanced ceramic to gift you smooth, radiant shine that beams with confidence.
  • 2” Wide Flat Iron: A hair flat iron that's got your back! Featuring a floating plate for the silkiest glide. Paired with professional hair straightener technology, you're in for an unbeatable hair transformation!
  • Shine Like Never Before: Achieve up to 50% shinier hair with the Remington Shine Therapy ceramic hair straightener. Boost your hair's health and shine, making every strand count. Rejuvenate your hair's inner glow.
  • Travel-Friendly Radiance: Whether at home or on the move, the Remington travel hair straightener ensures your hair always radiates. Unveil your hair's potential with every straightening iron session.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best flat iron for thick hair, there are several features to consider. We recommend taking into account the following factors before making a purchase:

Plate Material

The material of the flat iron plates is crucial for achieving the desired results on thick hair. Ceramic plates are the most common and are suitable for most hair types, including thick hair. However, titanium plates are more durable and heat up faster, making them ideal for thicker hair that requires higher temperatures. Tourmaline plates emit negative ions that help reduce frizz and static, making them a great option for thick hair that tends to be frizzy.

Plate Width

The width of the plates is also important when choosing a flat iron for thick hair. Wider plates are better for thicker hair as they can straighten larger sections of hair at once, reducing the amount of time spent styling. We recommend choosing a flat iron with plates that are at least 1 inch wide.

Temperature Settings

Thick hair requires higher temperatures to achieve the desired results, so it’s important to choose a flat iron with adjustable temperature settings. Look for a flat iron with a temperature range of at least 350°F to 450°F. Keep in mind that excessive heat can damage hair, so it’s important to use a heat protectant spray and not exceed the recommended temperature for your hair type.

Additional Features

There are several additional features that can make using a flat iron easier and more convenient. Some flat irons come with a swivel cord that rotates 360 degrees, making it easier to maneuver the iron while styling. Others have an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the iron after a certain amount of time to prevent overheating and reduce the risk of fire. Finally, some flat irons have a digital display that shows the temperature, making it easier to adjust and monitor the heat.

Frequently asked questions for best flat irons for thick hair

What should I look for in a flat iron for thick hair?

When looking for a flat iron for thick hair, you should look for one with high heat settings, wide plates, and tourmaline or ceramic technology. These features will help you straighten your hair quickly and effectively without causing damage.

What is the ideal plate size for thick hair?

The ideal plate size for thick hair is 1.5 to 2 inches. This will allow you to cover more hair at once and straighten your hair quickly.

Can I use a flat iron on wet hair?

No, you should never use a flat iron on wet hair. Wet hair is more prone to damage and can cause the flat iron to sizzle, which can be dangerous. Always make sure your hair is completely dry before using a flat iron.

How often should I clean my flat iron?

You should clean your flat iron after every use to prevent buildup of product and oils. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the plates, and make sure the iron is completely cooled down before cleaning.

Can I use a flat iron on colored hair?

Yes, you can use a flat iron on colored hair, but you should be careful not to use too much heat. High heat can cause damage to colored hair, so make sure to use a lower heat setting and always use a heat protectant spray.