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American Academy of Dermatology: Dermatologists Warn Ceramic Flat Irons Could Damage Hair and Lead to Hair Breakage

Thursday, July 31, 2008 General News
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CHICAGO, July 30 While hairstyles come and go,pin-straight hair favored by A-list celebrities and emulated by scores ofloyal fans from coast to coast appears to have real staying power. That's whythe use of flat irons, which are used to straighten hair, has increased inpopularity in recent years. Now, dermatologists warn that some flat irons candamage hair and cause hair breakage which could put a crimp in this covetedhairstyle.
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At the American Academy of Dermatology's Summer Academy Meeting 2008 inChicago, dermatologist Paradi Mirmirani, MD, FAAD, assistant clinicalprofessor of dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, presentedevidence that when ceramic flat irons are used improperly or too frequently,hair breakage can occur.
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"The newer flat irons that have a ceramic coating instead of a metal oneare marketed as providing more rapid and uniform heat transmission. Whilethis allows for quicker straightening of the hair with less damage, it isreally a classic case of buyer beware," said Dr. Mirmirani. "We're seeingthat when these ceramic flat irons are used at the highest heat settings andon a daily basis to achieve straight hair, they can really take a toll on thestructure of the hair and cause very noticeable problems that can be hard torepair."

Temporary hair straightening using a flat iron is achieved by applyingheated tongs to the length of the hair. This heat breaks and then reforms thehydrogen bonds in the inner core of the hair fiber. Dr. Mirmirani noted thatwhile the goal of straightening is to alter the inner substance of the hair,the unwanted consequence may be damage to the outer protective cuticle,causing weathering, damage and eventual hair breakage.

Hair weathering or damage is usually characterized by dry ends or flyawayhair. However, if breakage occurs, it can happen anywhere along the length ofthe hair and cause a shaggy or skimpy appearance to the hair. When thisoccurs, flat iron users may use the device even more frequently to try to tamethe broken or uneven appearance of their hair -- which can lead to moredamage.

Today, many ceramic flat irons on the market have variable heat settingswith maximum temperatures of up to 410 degrees Fahrenheit (210 degreesCelsius). Prior studies have shown that temperatures of 347 to 419 degreesFahrenheit (175 to 215 degrees Celsius) for as little as five minutes areenough to damage most hair. However, Dr. Mirmirani warns this threshold may beeven lower if the heat is applied to damp hair or hair that has beenchemically treated with color or permanents, as she is seeing patients who fitthis scenario more frequently. If women are not willing to give up their flatirons in the quest for straight hair, Dr. Mirmirani advised them to takeprecautions.

"Proper use of flat irons is extremely important, especially given howquickly hair can be damaged with high heat settings," said Dr. Mirmirani."Flat irons should only be applied to dry hair, and specialized stylingproducts that act as heat protectors may be applied to the hair prior topressing to help prevent burning and allow for smoother hair that remainsstraight longer. If there is a temperature setting on the device, it shouldbe set no higher than 347 degrees Fahrenheit, or 175 degrees Celsius, or onthe low/medium setting."

Although how frequently a flat iron should be used depends on anindividual's hair type, Dr. Mirmirani recommended that these devices shouldprobably not be used more than two to three times per week. For those whowon't leave home without the ultra straight look, Dr. Mirmirani acknowledgedthat forgoing the daily flat iron routine will take willpower -- but the endresult will be healthier, stronger hair that is not as prone to breakage andwill look better in the long run.

Dr. Mirmirani added that for many women and young girls, flat irons arenot the only source o
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