2 weeks Ago
Concerns are growing over the safety of chemical hair relaxers as research suggests that heavy use may be linked to an increased risk of certain cancers. Consumer Reports writer Jodhaira Rodriguez said she has a complicated relationship with her long, curly hair. "I love having my hair at this length.
I love having my curly hair. It's just so much work to maintain it in a nice way," Rodriguez said. When Rodriguez and others with curly, coily, or wavy hair want to wear it straight, it's even more work.
Chemical hair relaxers have provided a quick fix for decades, but their ingredients could be potentially dangerous. If you're looking for safer alternatives, a panel of Consumer Reports evaluators with different hair types tried out some other options. First up, flat irons.
The GHD flat iron was the favorite among Consumer Reports' evaluators. For a more budget-friendly option, check out the basic model from Hot Tools. >> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go: Apple | Google Play << A cousin of the flat iron, hair straightening brushes are designed to make styling dry hair quicker and easier.
Consumer Reports' face-off between models from Drybar and Tymo showed the Drybar brush was great for quickly styling straight or wavy hair, but the Tymo Ring was the better option for more textured hair. The innovative Dyson Airstrait offers a convenient way to straighten your hair. The unique tool combines a flat iron and hair dryer in one.
Besides its high price tag, Consumer Reports says its size and weight could make it challenging to handle. For something completely different, Consumer Reports also took a look at the RevAir, a reverse-air hair dryer that uses powerful suction to gently dry and stretch hair simultaneously. "It didn't leave my hair as smooth as I would have liked, but it did dry my hair really, really quickly," Rodriguez said.
Caring for curly, coily, and wavy hair can be tricky, but with safer styling options, you can rock your look without the risk..
