The incorporation of metal ceramic heating mechanisms speeds up warming time and lengthens temperature retention.

TOP TRENDS

• Better thermal elements: Manufacturers are intensifying the use of metal ceramic heaters as these warm up faster and retain the temperature longer than the conventional PTC types. To illustrate, the latter normally take 90 seconds to reach 200 C, while metal ceramic variants require only 15 to 40 seconds.
• Multifunctionality: Units that double as hair curlers are popular. Such models often feature specially designed heating plates. Select versions also have plates equipped with teeth and vibration setting to help untangle the hair.
• Travel-friendly options: Suppliers are launching rechargable, foldable and cordless hair straighteners for increased portability. These typically run on alkaline, NiMH or Li-ion batteries.
• Sales forecast: Amid difficult economic conditions in the US and the EU, enterprises anticipate flat income in the months ahead. To prop up sales, companies are keen on penetrating alternative shipping destinations such as South America, Japan, Southeast Asia and India.

Product gallery Anionte Electric (Zhejiang) Co. Ltd Model: AT820L Description: Metal ceramic heater; nylon 66 housing; LCD

Anyang General International Co. Ltd Hair Products Dept Models: UV-508 Description: Metal ceramic heater; oil-painted plates; LCD; up to 230 C

Geloon Electronic Technology Co. Ltd Model: GL916A Description: Metal ceramic heater; aluminum plates with ceramic, tourmaline, keratin protein coating; PET housing; LED display; overheat protection

Shanghai Ocean Intl Corp. Ltd Model: 168 Description: Metal ceramic heater; titanium-coated plates; PPS shell; LED display; up to 230 C; 2.5m power cord

Shenzhen Xinghongchang Electric Co. Ltd Model: HSD-071 Description: Metal ceramic heater; LCD; three heat settings; nonslip silicone grip

Zhejiang Yueli Electrical Co. Ltd Model: HS-950A Description: TC heater; ceramic-coated plates; LCD; 130 to 230 C; reaches 150 C in 30s; 1hr auto-off; power button

Note: This article "Metal ceramic elements boost hair straighteners' thermal attributes" was originally published by Global Sources, a leading business-to-business media company and a primary facilitator of trade with China manufacturers and India suppliers, providing essential sourcing information to volume buyers through our e-magazines, trade shows and industry research.

All price quotes in this report are in US dollars unless otherwise specified. FOB prices were provided by the companies interviewed only as reference prices at the time of interview and may have changed.

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