GHD Flat Irons – Are They As Good As The Hype?

September 5, 2009 by Barbara
Filed under Flat Irons Reviewed

Originally from the UK, and being very popular in Salons across Europe, GHD flat irons have become best sellers in places like, South Africa, Australia and the US. They are one of the most expensive on the market, costing anything up to $230. Naturally, many want to know if they really are worth it and which model to buy. What follows is a review of the models on offer and whether or not they match up to their price tag.

The price of a GHD flat iron puts it in direct competition with the likes of CHI, Paul Mitchell and Solia. However, most of the irons on offer from the other brands are cheaper, so what justifies the cost?

Let's take a look at each model and what features it has to offer and compare it to other brands to see if it's worth buying.

The GHD Mk3 flat iron remains a popular choice for many. It retails for around $180. What's good about this hair straightener is that the heaters are the same size as the plates which ensures an even distribution of heat - most plates are heated with 's' shaped heaters so the plates can have cold spots. Also, the plates are not fixed like most, but 'float', meaning the will adjust with the contour of your hair and therefore maintain an even application of heat.

What's bad about it is that the temperature is fixed at 370F. It's been on the market a while and it really is looking a little outdated. It compares badly to the new CHI Nano Ceramic Digital 1" Flat Iron. This Chi appliance has nano silver technology which helps to remove impurities from hair as its being used, helping to keep hair looking straighter for longer. It also cost around $40 - $50 less.

I wouldn't recommend the mk3; it's good but is an older model and it's over priced.

The GHD Mk4 flat iron is a different matter. This is the upgrade to the Mk3. It's very expensive, retailing for around $240. The ceramic heaters are mounted on aluminum; this metal significantly reduces static electricity. The outer body has a fire retardant coating which helps to keep the outside from getting too hot. It has universal voltage so you can use it anywhere. It features a 'shiver' mode that protects the ceramic plates from condensation that can damage them if the room temperature is below 5 degrees C. The Mk4.1 can be bought along with a DVD that shows you how to use it and create various hairstyles.

Although expensive, this straightener is of professional standard and does a great job of straightening hair. It's far more expensive that either a Paul Mitchell or CHI, but it is also far better. If you're looking to buy the best flat iron, then you should consider buying the Mk4. By the way, for those that like pink, there is also a pink version available - it'll cost you another $10.

No matter if you buy the Mk3 or the Mk4 you'll be getting one of the best flat irons on the market. A GHD flat iron is simply the best money can buy; the only other product that compares is the CHI Nano Ceramic Digital 1" Flat Iron.

Tags: ghd, ghd flat iron, ghd hair straightener

How to spot a fake GHD

April 28, 2009 by Barbara
Filed under Hair Care Tips

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If you are considering buying a GHD hair straightener online then this article will help you make sure you don't get ripped off and end up buying a fake.

Fake GHDs and other flat irons are everywhere on the internet at the moment. Mostly built in China, they are sophisticated copies that look identical to the original, come in the same packaging, have the product DVDs, even the authentic hologram on the cable.

The big difference of course is they are made with sub standard materials, low grade ceramic plates, or sometimes not even ceramic plates, cheap electrical components and heating elements that will end up damaging your hair in the long run.

Here's some things you need to remember when buying a GHD online...

1. Authentic GHDs are sold by GHD and registered salons and agents. If the price advertised seems extremely low, then you can bet it's a fake copied iron made in China.

2. Try not to buy from websites that are not affiliated directly with GHD. If you are unsure you can email them and ask some questions. You will usually find that the fake retailers will ignore your email.

3. Try buy through a site that offers buyer protection on sales like eBay. When buying through eBay and Paypal you are protected up to $20,000 normally and can file a dispute very easily, making it easy to reverse your payment. Also the advantage of buying through eBay is the use of the seller reputation score and feedback. You can be confident that if a seller has a 100% positive feedback and a high seller score they have been doing business for a while and any any unhappy customers would have made their point known. This is an excellent resource for peace of mind.

Make no mistake there are plenty of fake GHDs being advertised on eBay and other auction sites. The benefit of buying through these sites as opposed to regular sites is the buyer protection. Don't be afraid to email the eBay seller, ask questions, check their feedback from other buyers. Any reputable seller will be happy to answer your questions and offer serial numbers etc to check.

Follow this simple advice and you can get yourself a great deal.