Titanium Vs. Ceramic Flat Irons: Which One Is The Most Reliable and Remarkable

Hair Straighteners also known as flat irons are a basic hair need especially for those curly hairs who want to try the straight hair updo or those who want to relax their curls into waves. Now, what is with everyone debating which is better between the Titanium flat iron and Ceramic flat irons anyway? Why do we have to choose one against the other?

Because hello, each type of flat iron is made for some specific purposes and women are known to have various preferences in which we will tackle as we look further into Titanium vs. Ceramic flat irons.

The Battle Between Titanium Flat Iron and Ceramic Flat Irons

Effectivity

This is one of the main criteria base on, this could be determined as the number of passes to straighten your hair. Titanium and ceramic are the two most common materials used in a flat iron. When it comes to heating up quickly, titanium wins but lesser brands are known to have hot and cold spots. However, it may not sit well with people with sensitive hair. On the other hand, ceramic is known for equally distributed heat.

Heat Conduction

This is known as the transfer of heat from one place to another or in a flat iron’s case, the time it takes for heat to take effect on the strands o hair. Ceramic is known for its far infrared energy that is known to effectively style the hair but gentle at the same time. There are tons of ceramic flat irons out there that immediately gives good results in just 30 seconds. However, titanium has a much faster rate of conduction than all the other materials. The titanium flat iron is very effective on thick hair but it could be a bit harsh on finer hair.

Even heat distribution

I know it can get really annoying to find a part of your hair not effectively styled well as the rest so you’ll have to do it over again, that could be very frustrating and time-consuming. The reason for this could be the development of cold spots on the plates, as the name implies, the plate would be less effective in transferring heat on the hair. Ceramic wins on this one as it is a material known for having a good and even heat distribution.

Price

You might have known about this already but ceramic flat irons are known for being more expensive especially if they are 100% ceramic. When it comes to price comparison between Titanium vs. Ceramic flat irons titanium flat irons are more affordable. Ceramic flat iron can get more costly since ceramic is known as an expensive material. Titanium produces the same results on the hair but at a lesser price.

Longevity

This is a basic part of the criteria when choosing the flat iron to buy, whether it is for personal or commercial use you would always want to buy the product that is worth your money. Ceramic may have the advantages of being energy efficient but it does not have that much as the same durability as that of titanium flat iron. Ceramic can be very delicate and would not do well if it underwent rough handling as it could lead to breaks on the surface which could result to tugs and snags on the hair that will result to damage. Titanium still wins this one as this material is actually a metal, and metal is known to have high durability. Do you know that titanium is also used in building planes and other aircraft? That’s what makes this flat iron very durable.

Convenience

Titanium flat iron is lighter than ceramic which makes it more convenient than its counterpart. Moreover, you won’t have to worry when you had a loose grip and it actually fell as compared to ceramic flat iron. 100% ceramic flat iron would need careful handling to avoid cracks.  Ceramic flat irons are convenient for beginners in a way that newbies can make several passes on their hair without getting it burnt.

Versatility

Ceramic wins this one because of its “slowly but surely” nature. It may be a bit slow when applying heat on the hair but it still provides results, therefore, it can be used for all hair types.

Choosing The Right Type Of Flat Iron For Your Hair Type

Titanium flat iron

As the name implies, the metal plates of this flat iron are made of titanium. Titanium is known to heat up at the quickest time which makes the titanium flat iron a very fast hair straightener among all types.

Curly hair

The curly hair has a definite shape of S and on some occasions, it would even look like the letter z (which will need the flat iron). Curly hair has the definite curl in place without having to use products. Thick curly hair would require much heat to be straightened or relaxed so titanium flat iron would be best. Don’t forget to moisturize as curls tend to get drier when exposed to heat.

Straight hair

You might be surprised why I placed straight hair under the titanium type. Straight hair is actually very resilient of all types of hair and it also takes more heat to be curled which is why titanium is the best choice.  Without the curls and waves, the natural oil from the roots will easily distribute down on the tips making straight hair a good match for the heat of titanium.

KIPOZI Pro Flat Iron is one of the best titanium flat irons out there as it always left my hair smooth and straight. What’s more is that I can have the same look as I had from the parlor with half the price! This could be one of the best flat irons for you too! The auto power off is another pro that I love since I’m mostly forgetful to turn my flat iron off. It can even work on your hair even if it is already wet to shiny and sleek straight hair. The temperature can be adjusted from 390F to 450F which is great for all hair types. The plates are made of titanium but these are floating and an inch wide making it very effective in styling the hair without the snags and tugs, It is also compatible when it comes to the voltage which is 110-240 volts making it safe to use. The 360-degree swivel of the cord makes it easier to work around with as well. It comes with a pouch with a safety lock thus making it very convenient for travel and storage.

Ceramic Flat Iron

Ceramic is a long trusted material that has been used mainly on dinnerware such as bowls and plates but now this organic material is also used to straighten the hair and for people to enjoy various hairstyles as they want. There are actually two types of ceramic flat irons, one is ceramic coated and the other is made of ceramic material.

Kinky hair

Kinky hair may look stubborn but it is actually isn’t. This hair type is very much damage prone since it is fragile. The fine and delicate nature of the kinky hair makes it break easily when exposed to heat and harsh handling. A ceramic flat iron would be better for kinky hair because it is gentler to use on the fine strands. Add more moisture to kinky hair before and after styling to achieve those stylish yet healthy locks.

Wavy Hair

Wavy hair is prone to frizz so I’m putting it under ceramic flat iron. While it may be in the middle of straight and curly, the waves will need a gentle heat that won’t result in damage or breakage. Use protective products on your waves to keep it in good shape.

What Happens If I apply to much Heat on My Hair?

Why do I keep on emphasizing on choosing the right flat iron? This is because there are really those hair types that are prone to damage even when dealt with just a small amount of heat. Are you worried if you might apply too much heat to your hair? Here are some signs that the heat might be too much.

•    You smell burning hair

This is one definite sign that your hair is screaming help. Stop and lower the temperature immediately.

•    Your hair does not go back to its natural state 

When you’ve straightened your hair but it does not go back to its curly or wavy style and it has become looser or the straight hair looks dry and limp then that’s when you know it is already damaged by too much heat.

•    Split ends alert

Split ends is one sure sign that your hair is damaged by extreme heat Have them trimmed and if possible refrain from styling for a while until your hair has recovered.

What Are The Similarities And The Differences Between These Two Iron

The Similarities

Emission of positive ions: Both the ceramic flat iron and the titanium flat iron make awesome results. They are the same when it comes to releasing negative ions. Negative ions are known to neutralize the positive ions being released because of the heat. Positive ions are known to result in hair damage. It would help to have a flat iron that emits negative ions to counter the effects of the positive ions and both of the ceramic and titanium flat iron do the job.

Conduct Heat effectively: Both ceramic and titanium flat iron can conduct heat effectively which is a very important quality for hairstyling otherwise it would be useless. The only difference is the amount of time it takes for the plates to heat up to achieve results. (in which I am going to explain further in this article.

The Differences

How much time does it take to heat up? With ceramic flat iron, it approximately takes 30 seconds for the plates to heat up but titanium flat iron is quicker as it takes less than 15 seconds to heat up. This could be due to titanium as it is a metal with this original characteristic.

Amount of Heat: Titanium naturally wins this one as compared to ceramic making it very effective on coarse or fine hair. For those with delicate hair types, ceramic is a very good choice because it produces the right heat to style your hair. 

Evenness of Heat distribution: In this basis, ceramic flat iron wins because heat is equally distributed in all areas of the plate. Titanium flat iron, on the other hand, will develop hot and cold spots in the long run which will result to un-uniformed hairstyle, which will have you do it all over again.

Final Thoughts

So that’s about it, now which among the two irons really wins? Some may say that titanium is better than ceramic because titanium heats up pretty quickly and has better durability.  However, others would argue that ceramic is better as it is effective and gentle on the hair at the same time but it does not damage the hair as much as titanium does.

The verdict:

So which should be the winner? Titanium vs. Ceramic flat irons?

It is a tie since both have their own pros and cons.

The answer actually depends on the type of hair that you have, titanium flat irons are good for thick and normal hair, especially for those stubborn curls.  Since titanium heats up very quickly and the heat increases in the long run then it is great for thick hair. Ceramic flat irons, on the other hand, are perfect for delicate hair and hair with thin and fine strands. The best Ceramic flat irons are known to have a constant and even amount of heat throughout the process which answers the rationale behind its appropriateness for thin hair. 

There you go, Here’s my comparison between Titanium flat iron and Ceramic flat irons don’t forget to share if you find this article helpful and add up some thoughts below, I’ll definitely love some.

Top 4 Best Bathtubs of 2019

Bathing is one of the things that make us human. That is, it is one of the most crucial engagement humans involved in while going on with the day-to-day activities. Unlike other actions, bathing should be something that comes with easiness and comfort.

Unfortunately, not all units come to comfort and convenience. This makes the best bathtub different from other models in the market today. As a result of many tubs in the industry, it is often difficult to identify the best from other models. This post offers a detailed review of the best four bathtubs you would love to have. This article also comes with a buying guide.

Top 4 Best Bathtubs Reviews 2019

1. OVE Rachel 70-Inch Acrylic Bathtub

On the top of our list for the best bathtub is OVE Rachel 70-inch acrylic bathtub. This is a high-end bathtub with an attractive design. It is made with a freestanding bathroom accessory that makes this model suit your taste. It has leveling legs that make it stand firmly on any ground.

This bathtub is durable as it is made with fiberglass reinforcement that enables it to withstand any misuse. It has a drain plug that allows water to exit the tub easily. Another feature that you would love about this model is that it is a freestanding bathtub that is lightweight and can be moved for installation without any stress. To assure you of its safety and efficiency, this bathtub is trusted, tested, and certified by ULC and CSA, which are the gold standard.

Pros

  • Has an attractive design
  • Made with fiberglass reinforcement
  • Lightweight
  • Certified by ULC and CSA

Cons

  • Not easy to install

2. American Standard Cambridge 5-Fee Tub With Left-Hand Drain

When it comes to the production of bathroom material with long term durability, American Standard is one of the best brands in the industry. Over some decades, this company has been known with a high level of performances. This model from American Standard is a 5-foot bathtub with a simple design that comes with a left-hand drain outlet.

This model is 32-inch wide suitable for tall individuals. The tub is made with Americast material that is lighter and more durable than other units. Likewise, it is coated in a slip-resistant material that keeps you safe whenever you are bathing with this product. American Standard Cambridge 5-fee tub with left-hand drain is easy to install as it comes with an integral apron.

Pros

  • Made with Americast material
  • Durable
  • Coated in a slip-resistant material
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Not coated evenly

3. AKDY F210 Freestanding Bathtub

Unlike other units, this unit is built with double-wall construction. This construction helps the bathtub to retain a high level of heat. These two walls hold up the body heat inside of the tub to keep you cool and cozy whenever you get into it. It has a large capacity that can take up to about 79 gallons of water at the same time.

The size of the bathtub allows you and your kids to enjoy a bath together. This model is easy to set up within a short period. It has adjustable feet that put the bathroom accessory in level with uneven surfaces. It has a drainage pipe that makes the used water exit the tub easily.

Pros

  • Has a double-wall construction
  • Has a large capacity
  • Comes with adjustable feet
  • Comes with drainage pipe

Cons

  • Has tedious installation procedure

4. Heisenberg 5.7 ft. Handmade Pure Solid Copper Freestanding Claw

If you are in search of a bathtub that has a sleek and attractive design, this is what you are looking for. This model from Heisenberg this claw-footed, which makes it mobility easy and straightforward. It is made of hammered antique copper that gives your bathroom an elegant look.

This bathtub stands alone and measures 67.5 x 32 inches overall that makes it a comfortable unit to bath in. Also, it has a soaking depth of 15 inches. Since it is coated with a lacquer material, you are sure that this model will be stain-free all along.

Pros

  • Has a sleek and attractive design
  • Easy to move
  • Made of hammered antique
  • Coated with a lacquer material

Cons

  • Installing this unit could be a bit challenging.

Buying Guide

With numerous brands in the industry producing products with same features and designs, it is most of the time tricky to differentiate one unit from the other. However, are some factors to consider and some features to look for whenever you want to purchase a bathtub.

Types of Bathtub

This is one of the most important factors to consider whenever you want to buy a tub. There are different varieties of tubs in the market today, ranging from soaking bathtubs, walk-in bathtubs to air & whirlpool tubs. Each of these units has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

For instance, soaking tubs are deeper units that allow you to immerse your entire body into the water. These models also can hold more water. Unlike soaking tubs, walk-in products have a door at the side that allows you to walk into the tub without the need to climb like you used to do for other models. It is an ideal one for people with limited mobility and elderly ones.

Often, you tend to get an in-built seat with this model. Air tubs are models that offer you a warm sensation of pulsating water jets. You would also enjoy caressing and massaging in every part of the body.

Bathtub Materials

Another vital feature to look for in a bathtub is the material in which the model is made. While some units are constructed with cast iron, others are made with acrylic, fiberglass and other materials. The cast iron is one of the most durable materials in the industry today.

However, it only lasts for a short before it gets worn down. Acrylic material is a variety of plastic and is lighter in weight when compared with other units. The fiberglass material is often covered with Gelcoat, and it is less durable and can be scratched or cracked.

Conclusion

Bathtubs are one of the most important devices in the bathroom. Therefore, you can make use of the reviews of these products to choose the best bathtubs that suit your taste. Meanwhile, the factors are important to consider to get the best unit for your bathroom.

Top 3 Best Black Kitchen Faucets of 2019

There’re an ample of things that drive house owners to purchase a black kitchen faucet. Among that long list are easy maintenance and the ability to blend with most modern kitchen designs.

Sadly, choosing the best black kitchen faucet for your kitchen might be a bit challenging and overwhelming. Why? There are a plethora of these units on the market from good to excellent, which can make decision making tiring.

Fortunately, we’ve done the hard work and compiled a list of the best black kitchen faucet available on the market.

Top 3 Best Black Kitchen Faucets

1. Kohler K-596-BL Simplice Single-Hole Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet

This unit features a single handle for easy and straightforward use. Not everyone loves to adjust two handles for a perfect mixture of cold and hot water. With this simple design, adjusting your water temperature is a breeze.

Kohler K-596-BL comes with a pull-down spray head offering three functions, unlike most model with two functions. The three options include the pause function, sweep spray option and the stream option.

Furthermore, this unit features the latest DockNetik technology (a magnetic docking system). This feature allows the spray head to dock smoothly once you’re done with it. Besides, it eliminates common issues like drooping.

2. Delta Faucet 9113-BL-DST Essa Single Handle Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet

Coming with a mid-range price tag, this model in matte black offers an elegant and modern look. Its high-arc spout makes it easier to wash even the largest pot. This kitchen faucet can swivel 360 degrees, which provides you with unrestricted access to the sink.

Also, Delta Faucet 9113-BL-DST features the Delta Magna Tite technology for smooth and secure docking. The spray head is guided to its original position and won’t droop with time; thanks to the incorporated powerful technology.

That’s not all: The Touch-Clean spray head makes it easier to clean this unit since no mineral will be able to build up. In terms of durability, this appliance comes with a DIAMOND seal technology that ensures it withstand daily stress; thanks to the tough diamond coated disks.

3. Pfister FWKP701B Shelton 1-Handle Pull-Out Kitchen Faucet

For those looking to improve their overall kitchen value, this unit might be just what you are looking for. This model is designed to stay leak-free as it incorporates the proprietary Pforever seal mechanism.

What’s more? Its simple design allows easy and quick installation. This process does not require any complex tools. Plus, users will find the additional feature, soap dispenser, handy.

PORK CHOPS WITH RUSTIC MASH POTATOES

PORK

SERVES 5

PREP TIME 10 MINUTES

COOKING TIME 2 HOURS


INGREDIENTS

  • 10 thick pork loin chops
  • Season with Melissa’s Salt & Pepper
  • Season with Melissa’s Everyday Rub
  • 1 cup Melissa’s Red Wine Blend
  • half cup Melissa’s Fynbos Honey
  • half cup Melissa’s Turkish Fig Balsamic Reduction
  • 250g Miss Figgy – Sundried Fig Bites
  • 2 cups hot water
  • 2 tablespoons Nomu Chicken Stock


METHOD

  • Season pork with salt, pepper, Melissa’s Everyday Rub and place in roasting dish.
  • Place the fig bites in a large bowl, add hot water and stock to re-hydrate the figs. Stand for 30 minutes.
  • Mix Melissa’s Red Wine, Fynbos Honey and Balsamic Reduction in a bowl and keep aside.
  • Once the figs have re-hydrated, add fig liquid to the wine and honey mixture and pour this over the pork.
  • Cover and roast in oven for 1 hour at 180°C.
  • After one hour, baste pork chops with sauce and roast for a further 45-60 minutes until sauce is reduced and thick. Note: Pork should be sticky and a dark brown colour.
  • Serve with rustic mash potatoes.

MASH

SERVES 5

PREP TIME 5 MINUTES

COOKING TIME 40 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

  • 1.5kg potatoes
  • Pinch of salt
  • hand full of chopped chives
  • 125g cream cheese
  • Melissa’s Salt & Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of Melissa’s Olive Oil

METHOD

  1. Boil potatoes skin on in salted water until just tender.
  2. Once cooked dry, mash roughly with potato masher. Add chives, cream cheese, seasoning, olive oil and mix once more.
  3. Serve with the Pork Loin Chops.

Banana Bread French Toast

Serves

1

Prep time

20min

Cook time

2-3min

Ingredients

1 x Melissa’s Banana Bread, 3 slices
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla essence
50ml milk
crème fraiche
1 tbs Melissa’s Raspberry Jam
assorted nuts, roasted
butter

Method

  1. Mix eggs, vanilla essence and milk.
  2. Soak the bread slices in egg mixture.
  3. Heat frying pan with butter.
  4. Fry the soaked banana bread on both sides till golden brown.
  5. Place on plate and top with crème fraiche, raspberry jam and roasted nuts.

Melissa’s Style Hot Cross Buns

Serves

16

Prep time

2h 15m

Cook time

15-20min

Delicious! – Best treat this Easter, is Melissa’s style Hot Cross Buns stuffed with Melissa’s pecan nut and sultana milk chocolate bark.

Ingredients

Dough300ml milk
100g butter
2 oranges-zest only
800g bread flour
20g (2 sachets) instant yeast
260g dried fruit cake mix
2 tsp mix spice
4 eggs
2 bars Melissa’s pecan nut and sultana milk chocolate barksEgg Wash1 egg beaten with 10ml milkCross on Buns6 tbsp cake flour
1 tbsp castor sugar
60ml waterSugar Glaze4 tbsp castor sugar
4 tbsp water

Method

  1. Heat the milk, butter and orange zest in saucepan until butter just melts, then leave to infuse and cool down slightly to luke warm. Note: If the mixture is to hot it will kill the yeast.
  2. Mix the flour, yeast, cake mix and spices together in a large enough bowl.
  3. Add the eggs to the milk mixture, whisk lightly and add to the dry ingredients.
  4. Bring the ingredients together by using your fingers and hands. Start kneading the dough until you have silky, elastic dough. Note: If you find that the dough is too runny, add extra flour, if you find that the dough is to dry then add little warm milk or water.
  5. Form into a ball and place this back into the bowl. Cover with damp cloth and place in warm area of the kitchen for the dough to rise. The dough should at least double in size. It takes approximately 1 hour.
  6. Using your hands, punch the dough down and form into 16 even size dough balls. Note: Divide mixture in half, then half again until you have 16 balls.
  7. Break the chocolate barks into 16 pieces. Each bark should give 8 blocks of chocolate.
  8. Take each ball of dough and by using your thumb make a whole in the center, then push chocolate into the whole and close the ball of dough. Form a bun and place on tray. Continue this process until you have your 16 buns.
  9. The buns should be snug on the tray but not touching. Using back of knife, score the tops with an imprint of a cross.
  10. Cover with damp cloth and leave to rise again for 1 hour. The buns should have risen and almost joined.
  11. Brush the buns with egg wash.
  12. Mix the flour, sugar and water to a smooth paste (almost dough) Using your fingers roll the dough into snakes to create the cross on the buns.
  13. Bake in pre heated oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
  14. When the buns come out of the oven, mix the sugar and boiling water for glaze and brush each hot bun to glaze them.

Quick Beer Bread

Serves

8

Prep time

5min

Cook time

45min

Ingredients

500g self-raising flour
1 tsp salt
340ml Devils Peak first light golden ale
2 tbsp Melissa’s Toasted Seed Mix

Method

  1. Sift the dry ingredients.
  2. Add the toasted seed mix.
  3. Add the Beer and mix till a dough forms
  4. Place in greased bread tin.
  5. Add some seed mix on top.
  6. Bake at 180 for plus minus 45 minutes.

Savoury Breakfast Jaffles

Serves

6

Prep time

20min

Cook time

10min

Ingredients

Melissa’s Olive Oil
1 red onion, chopped
500g beef mince
350g Melissa’s Pasta Sauce with Sundried Tomatoes
1 tin red kidney beans, rinsed in colander under water, until water runs clear
Melissa’s Salt and Pepper to taste
12 slices of white or brown sliced bread buttered on out side
6 eggs, poached

Method

  1. Heat the saucepan with a little olive oil.
  2. Sauté the onions until soft.
  3. Add the mince and loosen with fork, then sauté until cooked.
  4. Add pasta sauce, cook for 5 minutes. Season to taste.
  5. Remove from heat, cool down slightly and add the beans and stir until combines.
  6. Place 6 bread slices butter side down on surface.
  7. Divide the mince between the 6 slices and flatten the mince slightly.
  8. To poach the eggs: Place enough water into a small pot with a table spoon of white vinegar. Heat water to boiling point and break the eggs one at a time into the pot. Poach 2 eggs at a time. Poach the eggs for about 3 minutes, they must be very soft. Remove from water with slotted spoon and cool slightly.
  9. Place one egg on top of the mince and top the egg with another slice of bread, butter side up.
  10. Open the jaffle iron and lace one sandwich into the iron. Close and cook over an open fire or gas top, turning continuously. Cook until it’s golden and toasted. Note: Continue with this process until all the sandwiches have been toasted.
  11. The idea is to have a soft runny egg in center of the toasted sandwich.