What is the primary purpose of a flat iron in hairstyling?

The primary purpose of a flat iron in hairstyling is to straighten the hair. Flat irons are specifically designed with heated plates that, when pressed against the hair, smooth out its texture and align the cuticles, resulting in a sleek and straight appearance. This tool is essential for those looking to achieve a polished look, as it can effectively eliminate frizz and unwanted waves, enhancing the overall style.

While adding volume, creating curls, or preserving hair color are important aspects of hairstyling, they are not the main function of a flat iron. Other tools and techniques are better suited for those purposes. For instance, curling irons are typically used for creating curls, and volumizing products or specific techniques are employed to add volume. Preserving hair color is generally achieved through the use of shampoos, conditioners, and treatments designed for color-treated hair, rather than through the use of a flat iron.