Flatironing, or straightening hair has been in style for quite awhile now, and it’s a look I love. Everyone looks great with sleek, smooth, flatironed hair. My problems have been a) finding a good flatiron that will do the job, not damage my hair, and last more than two weeks before it dies and b) finding the time to flatiron my long hair. I love the Chi flatiron my stylist uses on me at the salon, but I really didn’t think I could justify the expense (most Chi’s are over $100) – and since I am very frugal, I am often skeptical about whether anything high-priced is really worth it. So, last month, I decided to set out on a flatiron fact-finding mission to discover – are pricey flatirons really worth it?

I tested three flatirons and I’ll compare them for you. To get real “scientific,” I used each flatiron twice, and I used the same products on my hair with all three irons. The tools I tested are: CVS Brand 2″ hair straightener at $20.99, the ProTouch 1″ ceramic flatiron at $69.99, and the Sedu Revolution at $139. I’ll start with the lowest-priced iron first.

CVS Brand Hair Straightener $20.99 (available exclusively at CVS/Pharmacy and CVS.com) – For the money, this flatiron performed admirably. I did have some trouble with my hair slipping out of it and it pulling my hair a little, but I was pleased with my finished style. It got nice and hot and heated up very quickly. If you are someone who is only going to be flatironing your hair for special occasions, this might be a good flatiron for you. It will provide a good performance without a major investment. If you’re going to make flatironing a habit, you probably want to pass on this one.

Pro Touch 1″ Ultra-Slim Tourmaline Ceramic Straightening Iron $69.99 – I loved this flatiron. It is unique in that it has extra-long plates that are one inch longer than most flatirons. This feature alone really helped me get my hair straight faster, and since I have A LOT of hair, and two children running around while I am trying to style it, that is a big help! This was the only flatiron I tested that my hair did not slip out of, and I think the extra-long plates are to thank for that. My other favorite features were the slim design, and the variable temperature control. It was very easy to adjust the temperature if I felt it was too hot or not hot enough, and the heat adjusted quickly. My hair was very smooth and shiny after I used this flatiron, and I think it is an EXCELLENT buy for the price! This model was made exclusively for JCPenney Salon, and they often have great sales on their styling tools. I highly recommend it! The only thing I am left to wonder about this flatiron is how long it will last if one uses it several times a week. If I knew for certain that it would have longevity, I would say it is almost as good as those that are double the price. Since this was a short-term test, I guess that remains to be seen! I will say, though, that I would not hesitate to pay $69.99 for it.

The Sedu Revolution 1″ Professional Nano Tourmaline Ionic Styler $139 – This tool was truly a pleasure to use. It heated up very quickly and also had adjustable temperature control, but unlike the others the Revolution actually tells you what exact temperature you are setting it to, which I liked. Another unique thing about this flatiron is that its plates have curved edges instead of flat, which eliminates “kinks”, or imprints of the plates on your hair. These curved edges also make it easier to create waves or curls with this flatiron. It has anti-slip edges, but again, I did have some trouble with slippage using this iron. Overall though, it provided fantastic results, and it comes not just with the flatiron itself but with a DVD offering style tips, and a heat-proof carrying case. It also has a 24-month warranty, which is about twice as long as you’d get with lower-priced irons. If you are going to straighten your hair every day, this may just be the flatiron you need! It is available at Folica.com, ULTA stores, and professional salons nationwide.

So – are pricey flatirons worth it?

My conclusion is YES – if you’re going to use them twice a week or more! For less usage than that, I’d go with the mid-priced iron.

One thing to add – during this experiment I also discovered some really great products to protect your hair from damage when flatironing. Protecting your hair when you flatiron is SO IMPORTANT! Here are some great products to help you do just that!

Philip Pelusi P2 repairHair - This is a leave-in styling product and repair treatment that turns your flat-iron or blow-dryer into a deep conditioning tool . You apply it to your hair while it’s wet, and it only takes a very small amount to be effective. It smells great, and it strengthens your hair as you heat-style. It’s available at fine salons and online retailers.

ELLiN LAVAR TEXTURES ThermMist – this great-smelling thermal coating mist protects hair from heat styling with a special ingredient, Maracuja Passion Fruit Seed Oil, that seals the hair shaft to prevent heat damage. I saw a big difference in my hair when i used this while flatironing! It is a bargain at $7.99, and is available exclusively at CVS/Pharmacy locations.

I had great fun with this experiment, and I hope it’s been helpful to you! Happy Flatironing!

Jenny Rapson is the editor of Blissful Style. When not staring at herself in the mirror, she can be found blogging about motherhood at Mommin’ It Up!