Farouk CHI Volumizer Flat Iron 3/4"

To straighten or not to straighten--that's always the great debate. Taking a flat-iron to my naturally wavy hair usually results in poker straight strands that hang flat against my head a la Cher. And you know how I feel about volume.

But alas, the seemingly eternal question has now been answered with this hot little red number above, the Farouk CHI Volumizer Flat Iron 3/4". That's right--it's a straightener that volumizes!

The 3/4" curved plates really let you get close to the roots--a feat that is impossible with larger plated hair straighteners. The smooth ceramic plates glide over hair, straightening even long hair quickly and efficiently. The adjustable temperature lets you control the amount of heat needed for your hair type.

This flat iron makes my hair straight and sleek, but gives it body and movement at the same time. My hair looks thick and full, with no semblance of Cher. I wouldn't exactly say it gives lift to my long hair at the roots, but it does let you straighten out any kinks close to the scalp, and I imagine it would do a better job on bangs and shorter 'dos.

The curved plates also give the option of creating flips or curls--creating the flips is easy; the curling takes a bit more skill.

Chi flat irons are available at Misikko.