As you look around local markets like Wal-Mart, Walgreens, Target you may not find felt plates on a straightener. That is because these types of flat irons aren’t as common as the ceramic. They have been known to be very popular in the past, but as technology keeps heating up and creations for ceramic and titanium straighteners are becoming more advanced, the felt straighteners haven’t had as much to offer as the other two. It is very rare to find these tools on the market in regular stores such as Wal-Mart. More common places to find them would be online, at a specific salon or at a beauty supply store.

Although these straighteners aren’t as common to find, they do have some benefits to them. When you think of felt rubbing up against your hair, you might think of static and frizz. However, when you add heat into the mix you get a very smooth look in hair. The combination of the soft fabric and the heat of the plates makes it that much easier for you to get a great look each time you straighten. Also, because these plates are covered in felt, they even provide a little extra protection for your hair against heat damage.

The fact that ceramic plates have a higher risk of damaging your ends can be scary when you style with a straightener daily. The excessive heat can begin to dry your hair and make it look more dull the more you straighten your hair. The felt fabric plates serve as a coating for the ceramic plates and protect your hair from being damaged after the use of heat repeatedly. When you use the felt straighteners, you can reduce the heat damage and increase the shine. Felt plates glide easier through the hair and help retain moisture in the hair. Preserve your hair today with a great felt plated straightener.

Try these 5 products that cost less than $5 to look your best, without breaking the bank!

N.Y.C. New York Color Waterproof Mascara – $2: Every girl should have a go to tube of waterproof mascara.  Even if you’re not going to the beach, sweat, rain and tears can make your mascara run and ruin your look.

Tropez Irresistible Illuminator – $4: Get that lustrous glow all year round with a great bronzer or illuminator.  It’ll make you look fresh and sexy and give you an irresistible glow.

E.l.f. All Over Color Stick – $1: A great buy for two reasons!  First of all, it’s only a buck!  And secondly, it gives you ALL OVER color!  It’s perfect for dabbing at the corner of your eyes and on your cheekbones to make sure you look a bright as you feel.

Wet n Wild Silk Finish Lipstick – $1: Bold lips make a bold statement, especially when it cost you just ONE DOLLAR!  Slather your smoocher with a bright color (try Sevilla Sangria) and pair with neutral eyes for a classic beauty.

Bonnebell Lip Lites – $4: You can wear this sexy gloss alone, or slick it over your lipstick for an extra dramatic style.  Either way, it’s a great buy and will make you POP in any outfit.