To “CHI” or Not to “CHI”

For years, we’ve been told that “CHI” flat irons are The Best!  And because they are very expensive, we believed it.  But does CHI really have the best flat irons?  In my opinion…NO!  Just because a product costs way too much money, does that make it a better product?  NO!  On the other hand, is the cheapest flat iron as good as CHI?  No.

I am a true bargain hunter but I will not pay $140+ for a flat iron no matter what.  When I decided to jump on the CHI wagon, I started shopping on eBay.  I found the “CHI Turbo 2” Flat Iron” listed for $75 so I bought it. 

My thinking is double the width – cut the styling time in half.  This iron is constructed very well and is a sturdy appliance.  The product features are listed below:

§          Big “2” inch iron

§          Locks in hair color and retards fading

§          Lite weight design

§          “Flash Heating” 150-180 degrees in 6-10 seconds

It didn’t cut my styling time in half…it took longer.   Total styling time, including blow drying & straightening was 1 hour.  It was very hard to use on my hair.  My hair is very fine, so this may not be true for someone with extremely thick hair.  It was especially hard to use on my bangs.  It’s just too big and bulky and was a waste of my $75.

My next flat iron was the Conair 1” Ceramic Flat Iron that I bought at Wal-Mart for $13.99.  It was very lite weight, thinner and much, much worse than my CHI.  This iron had a temperature setting wheel but did not get very hot.  My hair constantly got snagged on this appliance making it break off.

My current flat iron is the most awesome hair styling product I have ever invested in.  It’s a “Babyliss Titanium 1” Flat Iron with Swarovski Crystals.”  The crystals are just added bling to the handle.  The product features are listed below:

§          Titanium and Ceramic plate, 1” width

§          Adjustable Heat up to 419F, Straightens hair 40% faster

§          The super smooth, extra long plates are excellent for high speed styling

§          Rounded edged plates

§          True ion generator to maximize negative ions and far infrared heat

§          Cool tips for easy handling

§          Creates a shiny, smooth finish

I purchased it on Amazon.com for $39 in September 2010.  They are higher now.  I’m assuming it was a new product and when it became so popular, they increased the price.  I WOULD pay $140 for this appliance. 

The Babyliss is very smooth going through my hair and it doesn’t get snagged and break my hair off.  Total styling time, including blow drying & straightening is now 15-20 minutes.  My hair is very soft and smooth, shiny and healthy looking.  If you have fine hair like mine, you don’t want to turn the heat up too high.  I have my temperature dial set on 40.

Thumbs up for Babyliss!!