The CHI is a great straightener, however there are many other great straighteners as well. :) I use the CHI at work and so far this particular one has lasted me almost a year and counting. On average, I use it at least once a day. At home I have a RUSK straighener that works just as well. One of the stylists I work with actually purchased a flat iron from Sally's for $50 and it works phenomenol. I've used it on a client before and I honestly did not notice a difference.

To protect the integrity of your hair, you will want to invest in a heat protectant before straightening your hair. One of my favorites is Redken Heat Glide. You only need a tiny bit or else it will make your hair greasy. It protects your hair from the heat while also giving it shine and taming those flyaways.

My stylist suggested the "Chi" iron to me. Here in Calgary - it's $250. Whoa!

She told me to look out for it while we were in Hawaii - but we never came across one.

I think I'll be buying it online.

I love my Chi! My hair is thick and it works really well with it :)