Knowra Hair iron Hair iron A heated hair-styling tool that shapes hair by applying heat and pressure through metal or ceramic surfaces. Flat irons straighten hair, while curling irons form curls or waves.
Hair-shaft structure : The layered structure of a hair fiber, consisting mainly of cuticle, cortex, and sometimes medulla. Heat changes the cortex’s temporary bonds, while surface contact can abrade the cuticle.
Flat iron : A hair iron with two heated plates that press strands to straighten or shape them. It is the principal iron design used to smooth or straighten hair.
Heating element : A component that converts electrical energy into heat. It supplies the heat that reaches an iron’s plates or barrel.
Hair breakage : The physical snapping of hair fibers, often caused by damage, dryness, or mechanical stress. Repeated high-heat styling can leave fibers more vulnerable to breakage.
Hydrogen bond : An attraction between a hydrogen atom and an electronegative atom that helps stabilize molecules and materials. Water and heat disrupt temporary hydrogen bonds in hair, allowing a new shape to set as it cools.
Curling iron : A heated tool with a barrel around which hair is wrapped to form curls or waves. Its barrel provides the curved surface needed to create curls.
Thermostat : A device that regulates temperature by switching heating systems on or off or adjusting their output. Temperature regulation helps an iron maintain its selected heat setting.
Scalp burn : A burn injury to the scalp caused by heat, chemicals, or another source. Contact with hot plates or a barrel can burn the scalp or skin.
Keratin : A family of fibrous structural proteins that form hair, nails, and the outer layer of skin. Keratin makes up most of the hair fiber that heated plates or barrels reshape.
Hair straightening : The process of making hair straighter through heat, chemicals, tension, or a combination of methods. Flat irons temporarily straighten hair by reshaping strands with heat and pressure.
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