Top 4 Amazing Flat Irons

Ready to get that perfectly sleek straight hair or make totally lustrous curls with your flat iron? We've narrowed it down to the top four most fabulous flat irons on the market. However, finding the right one for you can't just come from a list alone. Picking the right one on the top flat irons list begins with figuring out your hair needs. We'll help you break it down. No more feeling overwhelmed when you're getting started with hot tools or upgrading your old flat iron! Before you begin, decide which features work best for your hair to get that perfect hairstyle. Let's go!

Ceramic v. Titanium

Ceramic flat irons take longer to heat up, but they're more gentle on your hair and help keep the hair's integrity. These are best if you're concerned about damage. Ceramic is best for frizzy hair, as titanium can be a little too harsh. These work for all hair types, but are best for fine, soft, or easy to curl hair.

Titanium flat irons heat up almost instantly. They smooth hair and take fewer passes to get the results you want. These are best for thick, coarse hair. Some say titanium is a little more rough on their hair, but if you're looking for something quick and effective, titanium is the way to go. Those with healthy hair or those that don't use heat on their hair often can benefit from a titanium-plated flat iron.

Size of the Plate

If you have thin, fine, or short hair, a 1" plate should do just fine. For longer or thicker hair, you should shoot for something a little wider. Most people with thick, long hair prefer something between 1.25" and 2" for the best results since it covers more surface area at one time. If your hair is below your shoulders, thick, or coarse, you'll want to lean more towards around a 1.25" - 1.5" while those with even longer hair may find it beneficial to use a 2" for their tresses. This cuts down significantly on styling time. This also ensures that you don't miss any hard to reach areas like the back of your head.

#1 - T3 Lucea

This amazing flat iron has all the bells and whistles! This makes the $175 flat iron well worth every penny. It's great for all hair types from straight to coily hair and gives you the style you want in one pass. It comes in a 1.5" for those with very thick or long hair. The cera-gloss ceramic plates are longer than most and give you shiny, frizz-free hair. The T3's signature StyleEdge design gives straightened hair or curls a smooth, snag-free glide. It has a unique temperature finding feature known as HeatID technology. This allows you to select your hair's texture (fine/medium/coarse), the length, and whether or not it's color treated. This will suggest a heat setting that's best for your hair, and there's something for everyone due to the nine heat settings. Whenever you turn off your flat iron, it remembers the heat setting you chose. The smart micro-chip advanced dual heaters also manage heat output and and consistency for perfect heat distribution. It even has a "refresh mode" for little touch-ups at a lower temperature. It's known to create a smooth, sleek look when straight as well as with the gorgeous curls it helps you create. With a one hour shut off time, you don't have to worry if you don't remember to turn it off. This one gets stellar reviews in all areas!

Pros:

Single pass to style

Personalized heat settings with HeatID technology

Can achieve curls by holding for 5-6 seconds

Cons:

Some say it has too many bells and whistles, making it complex

Very thick hair may need the 1.5" plate instead of the 1" original

#2 - GHD Platinum+

This amazing tool has won Allure's "Best of Beauty Award" for best flat iron three times and received a spot in their official Hall of Fame. The price tag comes in at $249, but we think it's worth it for the benefits. This iron stays at 365°F to ensure there's no heat damage from styling. GHD boasts an increase shine by a staggering 75%, increasing strength of hair by 70%, and two times the protection for color treated hair. With the rounded barrel, you'll have snag-free styling with straight hair, curls, or the beautiful waves it can create.

It uses a patented Ultra-Zone predictive technology that recognizes hair's thickness to adjust accordingly for speed of styling while monitoring the heat output 250x per second. For thicker hair, it will use more power to achieve perfect styling while maintaining the 365° temperature, resulting in a single-pass to save you some time. Heating up in a swift 20 seconds is great for those of us that don't have much time. It uses floating ceramic plates to protect the hair from heat and snagging. If you leave it unattended for 30 minutes, it will shut off automatically, which is great for those of us that can be a little forgetful. It also has a patented wishbone hinge for greater control over your style.

Pros:

Lightweight

Fast styling

Minimized heat damage

Cons:

Pricey

Some reported that their naturally curly hair appeared a little more fluffy than flat

#3 - Dyson Corralle

This is the best flat iron out there if you're willing to splurge. Coming in at $499, it's actually worth the investment. This cordless flat iron has 30 minutes of cord-free use and charges fully on its magnetic charger in 70 minutes. The plates are made of magnesium, copper, and alloy to enhance strength, flexibility, and thermal conduction for optimal heat protection. The flexing plates style hair with less heat. It includes an ionic smoothing technology that Dyson says cuts breakage by 50%. Those using it said their normally dry hair looked smooth and shiny, which is something we've only found with Dyson.

There are three heat settings to choose from: 330°F, 365°F, and 410°F. There's an automatic shut off once it's been unused for 30 minutes. Frizz and flyaways are no match for the Corralle. Even those stubborn hairs end up looking sleek and smooth. It's completely safe for color treated hair and even boasts that there is no color fading! There's a safety latch to keep it closed and out of harm's way when it isn't being used.

Pros:

High performance and protection

Fast styling

Shiny and smooth hair every time

Cons:

Pricey

Some say it's bulky or heavy

#4 - Babyliss Pro Nano-Titanium Flat Iron

This titanium-plated flat iron is an amazing choice for coarse or curly hair. It will run you around $150 for this little gem. With a heat range of 240°F - 450°F, it has 50 heat settings. It comes in three sizes, 1", 1.25", and 2" plates. With a lengthier head plate of 5", it allows for wider sections at a time and can reach all the way to the scalp to get those stubborn, new growth short hairs. A ceramic heater paired with the titanium plates make for an amazing instant heat-up. This is the choice of women with short hair. Keep in mind that brittle hair should probably steer clear of titanium flat irons.

Pros:

Lightweight

Longer plates

Cons:

No automatic shut-off

May not be best for thick hair

Could get a little too hot for some

Now that you've got the rundown on the hottest flat irons out there, you can find the magical match for your hair! No more guessing or sticking with your old flat iron because you don't know where to begin when replacing it. Using this handy little guide, you're sure to find the one that works perfectly for you. Go out and get that flat iron that will give you that pin straight look and luscious curls you've been dying for!

Beginner's Guide to Makeup Application

It's easier than it seems to get that amazing makeup look, even for beginners! All you need is a makeup kit with the essentials, a little bit of direction, and some practice. With a little time, even dramatic looks will be a breeze! Check out this beginner's guide to have your makeup looking chic. Get ready for a crash course in makeup application. You'll be a pro in no time!

Prepping Your Skin

You always want to begin with a clean face. It gives your face a smooth canvas for an even finish. We can't stress this enough: Moisturizer should be used no matter your skin type. Without it, foundation and concealer can look heavy and gravitate to any dry spots, creating a caked on look. Next, apply a makeup primer in sheer layers over the forehead, cheeks, and chin. This will blur pores and mattify areas that are usually the oiliest.

Grab Foundation and Apply

Foundation should always be applied before concealer. It gives an overall flawless finish with better blending. Dab a few dots of foundation on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Start with a small amount and build as needed. The easiest way to blend for beginners is to use a foundation brush, but some beginners prefer to use a makeup sponge.

Apply Your Concealer

Grab your concealer and focus on areas like your under eyes, around the nose, dark spots, and blemishes. When blending in concealer, always dab, never drag. Dragging creates a caked-on look. To dab and blend, use your finger, a concealer brush, or sponge. When applying concealer under your eyes, draw an inverted triangle and lightly dab until it's blended. You've instantly concealed and brightened your face!

Create Dimension with Contouring

Contouring adds dimension to your face. Powder contour palettes are ideal for beginners. Use an angled brush to contour the cheekbones, jawline, hairline, and sides of the nose with the darker shade. With the lighter shade, apply to the middle of your forehead, above the cheekbones, and down the bridge of the nose. Take a foundation brush and blend. Afterwards, use a fluffy brush to run over your face with a slight bit of bronzer to bring more color back into your skin. You'll be shocked at the difference it makes in pictures and in person!

Add Blush for a Pop of Color

Select a hue that compliments your natural undertone. Wearing more earth tones? Go for an earthy color that compliments you. When wearing other colors, use a hue that compliments your skin's undertones as well. Tap your blush brush before applying to remove any excess. Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and sweep diagonally upward towards the hairline of your cheeks. Blend in a circular motion for a natural-looking flush.

Time for Eye Shadow

Before you begin, figure out what look you're looking to achieve. For example, you can go for a more natural, daytime look or maybe a smoky eye to add some drama. Prime your eyelids for the best result by using an eye shadow primer or even a couple of dots of concealer. Next, choose one light color and one darker color. Apply the lighter color over the entire lid for better blending results.

Apply the darker shade to the outer crease of your eyelid with your eye open. This way you can make sure it's visible when your eyes are open. Blend the two colors with a longer-haired makeup brush, using your crease to guide your shape. Be careful not to over-blend! Blending is only meant to soften the darker shade and create a smooth transition between the colors. If it begins to look uneven, it is over-blended and can be fixed by starting over, covering the lid with the lighter color once more. If this sounds like too much to start, simple works, too. Opt for a cream-based shadow or use one color and blend over entire eyelid.

Making Your Eyes Pop with Liner

Eyeliner gives us a way to be really creative. Many people find they feel more comfortable with an eyeliner pencil at first, moving on to liquid liner after a little practice. It's best to steer clear of the waterproof for now. All you need to do is pull your eyelid taut and draw a line down at the lash line. Either stop at the end of your lashes or extend it outward for a fun cat-eye effect. For longer wear, take an angled eyeliner brush and run over your eyeliner with black eye shadow.

Lashes for Days - Top Lashes

Taking time on your lashes has a huge payoff. It all starts with the way you open your mascara tube. Twist the wand out of the tube to avoid clumpy lashes. Wipe any excess from the end of the wand. Keep a q-tip and some makeup remover nearby for any smudges. Always avoid pumping your mascara. This dries it out quickly and causes spider lashes.

Slightly close eyelids and slowly brush the mascara wand from base to tip on the top side of your lashes. Next, you'll look forward and gently brush on mascara underneath from root to tip. Slightly wiggle the wand back and forth as you brush upward for more uniformity. Coating both sides of your lashes gives a darker, more voluminous effect. Be careful not to let one layer dry before applying the next or you may end up with brittle, clumpy lashes.

Next, you'll use your wand both horizontally and vertically for the best effect. To begin, tackle the middle lashes first. Look forward and place the wand at the base of your lashes. Slowly glide upwards. It may not be as fast as a quick swipe, but the results are amazing when it comes to evenly distributed mascara. Do a couple of coats, first horizontally, then turn the wand vertically and apply from root to tip to get any lashes you may have missed. When applying mascara vertically, move in a windshield wiper motion along the root of your lashes. Now it's time to move on to the inner and outer lashes. Turning the wand vertically, look to the opposite side of the lashes you're working on, and use the tip of the applicator to coat the inner and outer lashes from base to tip. Doing this horizontally can often result in smudging.

To get rid of any accidental clumping, you can separate the lashes by brushing at a diagonal, downward angle and gently sweep across so the bristles will hit the tips of your upper lashes. Remember not to refresh it midday unless you want to risk spider lashes.

Bottom Lashes

Delicately use the wand to individually get the bottom lashes. This cuts down on smudging. It may seem tedious, but what a payoff! Don't forget you can just apply a small amount of remover with a q-tip if you have any accidental smudging. Try not to use too much or you'll end up with smudges underneath.

Conclusion

With this guide, you'll be able to create showstopping makeup in no time. Just gather the essentials and you're on your way to a total transformation. With these expert tips and a little practice, you’ll be ready to take your makeup routine to the next level. Just channel your creativity and find the look that makes you feel the most confident. When you feel more comfortable creating your everyday makeup routine, it'll be time to try new things and take things up a notch. Before you know it, you'll be creating all kinds of looks that make you feel your best!

10 Beauty Hacks We Love!

If there's one thing we all love, it's a great beauty hack! Luckily, we have 10 amazing tricks to make your beauty routine easier. You may even find you've improved some of your makeup skills with these tips and tricks! It's time to step up your makeup game and save a little time in the process!

1. Foundation Under Concealer

It seems natural to apply concealer before foundation, but what if we told you that wasn't the best way? Foundation first makes for a smoother canvas while creating an even base to reduce overall redness, discoloration, and blemishes. Not only will you use less product, but you'll also prevent any creasing or caking. Amazing!

2. Melt Eyeliner Pencil

Wish your eyeliner pencil could stay put a little longer? No problem! Creamy products tend to stay put longer, especially when warm, so why not create a creamy consistency with your pencil? Melt it down slightly with a lighter for a couple of seconds until tacky. Let it cool for a few seconds, then apply. It will lock it in place and give you that perfect look all day!

3. Make Your Eye Shadow Pop with White Eyeliner Underneath

Wish some of those eye shadows would look the same on your eyes as they do on the palette instead of a more sheer look? Many times they appear more sheer when applied, but there's a hack for that! First, blend all parts of the lid where you plan to place the eye shadow with white liner. Apply the eye shadow color you're looking to give a good pop of color to, and boom! You'll be shocked at the new shades you can make!

4. Plump Up Lashes with Setting Powder

Give those lashes an extra pop with a little setting powder! Start with bare lashes and use an eyelash curler to start. Next, apply the first coat of mascara from root to tip. Next, using a fluffy eye shadow brush, apply a light coat of translucent powder to your lashes. Don't use too much or you may cause clumping. Finish it off with another coat of mascara to cover the powder. Voila! Time to rock those lashes that look like you put on your falsies.

5. Apply Eyelash Glue with a Bobby Pin

False lashes can be difficult to apply no matter how long you've been using them. No more glue mishaps like spitting onto the lash! Using a bobby pin allows you to apply just the right amount. Carefully apply a few dots along the falsie lash band and distribute evenly. Wait 30 seconds for glue to become tacky and pop on those perfectly placed lashes!

6. Revive Mascara with Saline Solution

Not ready to throw out that amazing tube of mascara that's gotten a bit dry? No problem! Adding around three drops of saline solution (such as contact solution) can totally revive it and bring back that smooth consistency. Keep in mind that while this trick may be able to bring any mascara back to life, always replace your mascara after three months. Unseen bacteria grows inside the tube and can cause issues with your eyes.

7. Make a Smoky Eye with a Hashtag

This is a quick trick to get a great smoky eye. Use an eye shadow stick or kohl liner to draw a slanted hashtag inwards, up and away from the outer corner of the eye until you reach the crease. This is about 1/3 of your eyelid. Next, blend the hashtag with a short, dense eye shadow brush, sponge, or smudging blush. To get a more intense smoky eye, repeat the process to darken it if needed. This gives eyes a symmetrical look with a smoky eye to die for!

8. Conceal Dark Circles with Triangle Concealer

So many of us out there struggle with covering up dark circles. Luckily, we've come across this amazing makeup hack that puts our old methods to shame! Stop dotting your concealer under your eyes, because this triangle method will blow you away. Draw the base of the triangle directly under lash line and the tip of the triangle is toward the apple of your cheek. This conceals shadows and redness to give the illusion of bright under eyes. It's absolutely life changing!

9. Set Your Lip Color with Powder

With one quick little step, you can prolong that amazing lip color. Swipe on your lip shade and press a tissue up against your lips. On top of the tissue, dust translucent powder over the top of your lips. This will stop your color from smudging, budging, or bleeding. Don't skip the tissue, because the powder can actually change the hue of your lip color. The tissue protects from dulling or lightening the color.

10. Perfectly Shaped Winged Liner

First, keep your eyes open and relaxed while applying. Widening eyes changes the appearance when relaxed. Gently take an eyeliner pencil and draw the shape you're going for so you can easily fix any mistakes, beginning under the tail of your brow sweeping to the inner corner of your eye. Once the initial shape is finished, create precise edges with a little concealer or a pointed cotton swab dipped in a little bit of micellar water. On the other eye, use the first as a guide for the placement. Now that you've created your nice, clean shape, the hard part is done! Run over the pencil-drawn shape with your liquid liner. Boom! There's your perfectly shaped, long-lasting liner!