9 Best Flat Irons for 4C Hair That’s Coily And Hard to Straighten

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Feb 15, 2024
Best Flat Irons for 4C Hair
Best Flat Irons for 4C Hair
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Achieving a sleek and smooth hairstyle for those with 4C hair can be a hassle that you might not want to put yourself through, but finding the right tools can definitely make the process much easier. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best flat irons for 4C hair that will make your straightening routine a breeze!

In recent times, the market has seen a steady rise in the demand for effective 4C hair straightening products, and this has brought about innovative solutions that are specifically designed to work on tight curls and coily hair types.

In this article, we’ll go over the best straighteners for curly hair, discussing the features that set them apart and what makes them effective tools to achieve silky, frizz-free results. From plates made of specialized materials to advanced heat technology, all of the flat irons mentioned in this article have been tried and tested by our experts, ensuring that the products deliver all of their promises. So, keep reading to find out recommendations for some good flat irons for 4C hair.

9 Best Flat Irons for 4C Hair That Are Approved by Our Experts

This all-in-one tool can do it all – it effortlessly straightens and curls even the most frizzy and coarse hair. Equipped with 8 HeatBalance Micro-sensors, it regulates the temperature and evenly distributes heat, so you don’t have to worry about hair breakage or burning your precious locks. The tourmaline plates give shinier and sleeker results in shorter durations, and the high volume of negative ions allows smaller water molecules to penetrate the hair. It also has adjustable heat settings that go up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Plate Type: Tourmaline

Plate Width: 1 inch

Max Temperature: 450ᵒF

Pros
  • Comes with a glove
  • Silk case for storage
  • Travel-friendly
  • Dual-voltage
  • Durable
  • Reduces frizz
Cons
  • Doesn’t clamp down tightly
  • Best for Frizzy Hair

    Revlon Smooth Brilliance Ceramic Hair Flat Iron

    Revlon Smooth Brilliance Ceramic Hair Flat Iron
  • If you’re looking to achieve straight hair with a healthy-looking finish, this tourmaline-plated iron is just what you need. It battles frizz and leaves the hair shiny, creating beautiful straight locks or waves, according to your preference. It also has a lightweight and slim design with 1-inch extra long plates that effortlessly cover larger sections of your hair. 

    Additionally, it comes with 10 customizable high-heat settings and it takes just 15 minutes to completely heat up. The best part is that it has an automatic shut-off feature that gets triggered after an hour.

    Plate Type: Tourmaline

    Plate Width: 1 inch

    Max Temperature: 455ᵒF

    Pros
    • Travel-friendly
    • Built-in counter rest
    • Recessed buttons
    • Lock switch
    • Tangle-free swivel cords
    • Rounded plates
    Cons
    • May not be great for very thin hair
  • Most Travel-friendly

    CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline Ceramic Flat Iron

    CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline Ceramic Flat Iron
  • This tourmaline ceramic flat iron from CONAIR features 30 different heat settings, extra-long floating plates, and advanced ceramic technology that heats up evenly. Plus, it can be used on all hair types! It also tames frizz and adds a lustrous shine, heating up in just 15 seconds. From straightening and waving to creating effortless volume, this flat iron can do it all. The sparkly purple color makes it look super attractive – it’s the perfect gift for anyone who has a hard time achieving pin-straight styles with their 4C hair.

    Plate Type: Tourmaline

    Plate Width: 1 inch

    Max Temperature: 455ᵒF

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Customizable settings
    • Durable
    • Auto-shutoff feature
    • Travel-friendly
    • Requires just one pass
    Cons
    • Gets overheated if left on for too long
  • Best Lightweight Design

    BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Flat Iron

    BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Flat Iron
  • With Nano Titanium Technology, this digital straightening iron delivers super shiny and sleek hair. The all-directional floating plates come 100% in contact with the hair, enabling you to straighten your hair quicker with fewer passes. It also heats up evenly, ensuring that there aren’t any hot spots and the negative ions leave your hair feeling extra smooth and help you maintain healthy hair. Apart from straightening the hair, it can also create the perfect loose and beachy waves. The metallic blue color adds to its goodness, making it a must-have in your collection of styling tools.

    Plate Type: Titanium

    Plate Width: 1 inch

    Max Temperature: 450ᵒF

    Pros
    • Looks attractive
    • Easy-to-read display
    • Dual voltage
    • 9 feet power cord
    • Lightweight
    • Corrosion-resistant
    Cons
    • May snag longer hair
  • Best for All Hair Types

    Wavytalk Nano-Titanium Flat Iron

    Wavytalk Nano-Titanium Flat Iron
  • Featuring 1.7-inch wide plates, this flat iron is ideal for a lot of hair types, especially coarse and coily 4C hair. The plates heat up quickly and evenly, saving you a ton of time when it comes to hair styling. The adjustable temperature setting and digital display allow you to choose a heat level that you’re comfortable with, adapting to your specific hair type. Here’s the best part – if you have hair that’s very hard to tame, the titanium plates will give you smooth and silky hair with minimal effort. Plus, you absolutely don’t have to worry about it pulling or snagging your precious hair – it glides beautifully even on the tightest coils.

    Plate Type: Titanium

    Plate Width: 1.7 inches

    Max Temperature: 450ᵒF

    Pros
    • Auto-shutoff feature
    • Dual voltage
    • 360-degree swivel cord
    • Safety lock button
    • Looks attractive
    • PTC heater
    Cons
    • Not very long-lasting
  • Best for Damaged Hair

    ghd Platinum+ Styler

    ghd Platinum+ Styler
  • The ghd Platinum+ is the world’s very first smart hair straightener – it can accurately predict your hair’s needs! Through predictive technology, this heat styler is monitored 250 times per second, delivering hair that’s both stronger and healthier. Before you start styling, we recommend that you use a heat-protectant spray and comb through your locks from root to tip. 

    It’s safe to get close to the roots of your hair and the plates glide along the lengths with no pulling or tugging. Moreover, it comes with an auto-shutoff feature, so you don’t have to worry even if you forget to turn it off.

    Plate Type: Ceramic

    Plate Width: 1 inch

    Max Temperature: 365ᵒF

    Pros
    • Adds shine
    • Protects the hair color
    • Set to the optimum styling temperature
    • Quick heat-up time
    • Universal voltage
    • Ultra-glossy plates
    Cons
    • Makes a beeping sound
  • Best for Gifting

    Mondava Professional Ceramic Tourmaline Flat Iron

    Mondava Professional Ceramic Tourmaline Flat Iron
  • If you’ve been envying the perfectly styled hair that you see on celebrities, this styling hair tool is just what you need! It gives you silky straight hair or beachy waves, whatever you prefer, in just a few minutes! The ceramic plates are coated with premium tourmaline that smoothens the hair and reduces frizz, delivering sleek results that you’ll fall in love with. Additionally, it’s super ergonomic – very easy to hold and use. The best part is that it distributes heat evenly, making it safe to be used on all types of hair.

    Plate Type: Ceramic

    Plate Width: 1.25 inches

    Max Temperature: Not mentioned

    Pros
    • Dual voltage
    • Adjustable temperature
    • Salon-grade iron
    • Comes with a travel pouch, comb, gloves, and clips
    • Safe for delicate hair
    • Ideal for gifting
    Cons
    • Makes a loud noise
  • Best for Long Hair

    Neuro by Paul Mitchell Smooth Titanium Flat Iron

    Neuro by Paul Mitchell Smooth Titanium Flat Iron
  • This digital, high-performance hair straightener from Paul Mitchell features titanium plates that make the hair incredibly smooth and straight – it can also help you add waves or volume to your locks. Some other noteworthy features are the customizable temperature, auto-shutoff feature, and the travel-friendly design.

    It also distributes heat evenly and glides through the hair in just one pass. A review on Amazon reads “It works better than expected. Straighten the thickest hair amazingly fast. I would strongly recommend this especially for long thick coarse hair”.

    Plate Type: Titanium

    Plate Width: 1.25 inches

    Max Temperature: 450ᵒF

    Pros
    • Slim design
    • Makes the hair soft
    • Durable plates
    • Dual voltage
    • Temperature display
    • Reaches the roots easily
    Cons
    • Leaves a burnt smell on the hair

    Quick Tip:

    To straighten your hair, hold the iron horizontally and glide it through the hair. To create curls, hold the iron vertically and wind it away from the face.

  • Most Affordable

    Terviiix 24K Titanium Flat Iron

    Terviiix 24K Titanium Flat Iron
  • Terviix’s 24K Titanium Flat Iron heats up quickly while also reducing thermal damage from over-styling your tresses. It has curved-edge 3D floating plates that prevent your hair from getting caught and pulled, promoting a smooth glide during the styling process. You can create pin-straight hair, beachy waves, and bouncy, all with just one tool that delivers professional results.

    Plus, there are 5 heat settings to choose from – you can opt for one that suits your hair type. The best part is the black and gold color that makes it appear super attractive and luxurious.

    Plate Type: Titanium

    Plate Width: 1.75 inches

    Max Temperature: 450ᵒF

    Pros
    • Budget-friendly
    • Adds shine
    • Stable temperature
    • Swivel cord
    • Dual voltage
    • Looks stylish
    Cons
    • Doesn’t last very long

    Now that we’ve gone over some of the best flat irons for 4C hair, let’s find out how to choose the best one using the buying guide below.

    How to Choose the Best Flat Iron for 4C Hair?

    The following are some factors to keep in mind when choosing a flat iron for 4C hair:

    Plate Material

    Opt for flat irons that have ceramic, tourmaline, or titanium plates. All of them are known to evenly distribute heat and the heat damage is minimal.

    Temperature Settings

    We suggest that you choose a hair straightener that is equipped with customizable settings. This way, you will be able to set the heat levels based on hair thickness. 

    Plate Size

    With wider plates, the styling process will be quicker and more efficient. This is especially true when it comes to thick and tightly coiled 4C Hair.

    Ion Technology

    Look for irons that use negative ion technology as they offer smooth and frizz-free results. They are also known to lock in moisture, making it ideal for strands prone to dryness.

    Reviews And Recommendations

    Before making your final choice, take some time to go through the reviews of other customers with a similar hair type. This way, you’ll get an idea of how it performs.

    Tips to Safely Straighten 4C Hair

    4C hair can be hard to work with, use the below-mentioned tips to help make your process a tad bit easier:

    1. Always ensure that your locks are moisturized – use hydrating products before you begin styling. Hair that’s already dry can get worse after heat styling.
    2. Apply a generous amount of heat protectant to your hair. It works wonders to battle the adverse effects of high temperatures that are usually required to style coily hair.
    3. Start with the lowest heat setting and slowly work your way up if required. Super-high heat isn’t always required.
    4. Section off your hair to make things easier. Working in smaller parts will make the job easier while also providing thorough results.
    5. Prioritize quality over price! Though there are good flat irons that are also budget-friendly, investing in the best one should be your top goal. It will last longer, saving you more money in the long run.
    6. Limit the number of times you go over each section – overdoing it can damage your hair.
    7. As a finishing touch, use a lightweight oil or serum to lock in moisture and add an alluring shite. This will add to the visual appeal and feel of the final hairstyle.

    Conclusion

    So in a nutshell, to find the best flat iron for 4C hair, one must consider factors such as plate size, material, and temperature to achieve the best results without causing any damage to their precious locks. The top 2 straighteners for 4C hair that we would recommend are the Revlon Smooth Brilliance Ceramic Hair Flat Iron and the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Flat Iron – both options are highly versatile and safe, offering an effortless styling experience. 

    We also suggest that you follow the tips we’ve shared for one to safely straighten 4C hair – all of them have been tested by our experts, and they work wonders in producing the best final results. So go ahead, choose the best flat iron for type 4 hair, and rock the sleekest, most chic straight hairstyles.

    FAQ's

    Which temperature setting is most suitable to straighten 4C hair using a flat iron?
    To safely straighten 4C hair without causing any heat damage, we suggest that you use temperatures between 300 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
    How often can I straighten 4C hair with a flat iron without causing any damage?
    Using a flat iron somewhere between every 1 to 2 weeks is considered safe for 4C hair. You can also prevent further damage by limiting passes through the same section of hair.
    Are narrow plates more effective to straighten 4C hair?
    Narrow plates are usually better since they offer more precision and control, especially if you’re working with short hair. However, the answer to this question may vary according to the individual’s preference.
    Can a ceramic-plated flat iron help reduce frizz in 4C hair?
    Yes, this is true because ceramic plates are known to distribute heat evenly while also sealing the hair on the outside. This gives smoother and frizz-free results.
    Is using heat protectant an important step in straightening 4C hair?
    Yes, it is very important to use a heat protectant when you’re straightening any type of hair. It minimizes heat damage and keeps the hair in a healthy condition.
    How does ionic technology in a flat iron benefit 4C hair?
    Ionic technology reduces frizz, static, and flyaways by emitting negative ions that neutralize the positive charge present in the hair. This makes the hair appear smoother and shinier than before.
    Does using a flat iron cause damage or alter the natural curl pattern of 4C hair permanently?
    Yes, excessively using a flat iron on 4C hair can potentially damage the natural curl pattern permanently. There is an even higher possibility that this will happen if you use super high temperatures or don’t use a heat protectant.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Alvira, our in-house haircare expert, carefully curates structured content to help our readers gain all the knowledge they require. She believes that 4C hair can be harder to straighten and having the best tools in your arsenal can be of great help. With her curation of the best flat irons for 4C hair, she aims to help the reader find the perfect match for their coily locks. After trying all the products with some help from her friends, she found that they all preferred the Revlon Smooth Brilliance Ceramic Hair Flat Iron over the others. It effectively got rid of any frizz and left the hair looking super shiny. Plus, it also heats up quickly and comes with 10 customizable heat settings.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Alvira Dsouza
    Hair Expert

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More