The beauty staples that have stood the test of time are red lips, red lips, and flat irons. With advances in hair care technology, the best hair straighteners have moved from being hair-damaging to sophisticated, efficient tools that work on all hair types and cause far less damage. That's right: yes, there are flat irons and straightening brushes that won't burn out or weaken your hair.

The more versatile and technologically advanced your flat iron is, the less time you will spend struggling with hair products to enhance shine and body. Heat protectants (open in new tab) are non-negotiable, but just like a good curling iron (open in new tab) or hair dryer (open in new tab), with the best flat iron, hair glossing products (open in new tab) and texturizing sprays (open in new tab) You'll reach for it a lot less often. To guide you in your pursuit of the perfect smooth hot tool, we've compiled the biggest hits of hair straighteners ahead.