Hair straighteners: A significant burn risk

Background and aimHair straighteners have become increasingly common household appliances. The purpose of this study was to investigate the temperatures reached by the exposed plates of hair straighteners when switched on, and the length of time taken to cool to a safe temperature after switching off. We also present the case of a child with deep dermal burns caused by a hair straightener, highlighting its potential danger when left unattended.MethodsEight different hair straighteners were tested using a calibrated thermometer. Maximum temperature reached and length of time taken to cool to 40 °C were recorded three times for each straightener.ResultsAmong the eight straighteners tested, the size of the plates varied between 22.5 and 53.9 cm2. Plate material was ceramic in all but one case. Average maximum temperature was 163 °C (122–210 °C). Mean time taken to cool to 40 °C from switch-off was 26 min (18–44 min). None of the devices tested could be locked closed.Discussion and conclusionHair straighteners present a significant risk of burn when left unattended, both while switched on and for up to 44 min after turning off. We offer some recommendations to improve safety.