What is the purpose of a thermal styling tool, such as a flat iron?

The purpose of a thermal styling tool, such as a flat iron, is to change hair structure temporarily. When heat is applied to the hair, it alters the hydrogen bonds within the hair shaft, making it possible to achieve different styles, like straightening or curling. This process is temporary because once the hair is exposed to moisture or humidity, the hair’s natural structure will revert to its original form.

Understanding the temporary nature of this change is key for stylists, as it informs their recommendations for maintenance and care after styling. Hair cleansing, adding color, and removing split ends are functions managed by different techniques and tools, such as shampoo, hair dye, and scissors, respectively. These do not involve the application of heat in the way that thermal styling tools do, which is why their definitions do not align with the function of a flat iron.