#Review: DryBar Smooth Operator Flat Iron

DryBar Smooth Operator ($125USD)

 

Some review say this iron isn't that impressive either, others say it's fantastic. I bought this iron to use in the interim while waiting for my Agave iron to finally be shipped to the store. 

Upon opening the box, my heart sank. Everything looked so cheap! The hardware of the iron itself, the packaging, everything. Even the in-use light flickered and I'm pretty sure it was supposed to be a solid light. It was insulting. I was hoping that despite the lackluster appearance that the iron's performance would justify the $125USD that I shelled out. It couldn't touch cheaper irons that I've used. My hair didn't stay straight and sleek as it has on other occasions with my Cortex. 

Verdict: The naysayers were right. You're better off buying a $30USD hair iron if you're ok with results like that. 

#Mission: Sephora Flat Iron Search

My Secret Santa mistakenly gave me a Sephora gift cars instead of cash so no I'm kind of forced to get my flat iron from there. 

I need an iron with an adjustable heat dial since my hair is chemically processed and super fine. I also wear different types of extensions that require various heat settings as well. 

T3 SinglePass Compact Iron ($79USD)

I went in and purchsed this iron after being misinformed about the product. (Way to go Sephora staff!) it's a shame too. The hardware and packaging were really nice for a $80 flat iron. (Low-midrange in Sephora). The concept is wonderful- a heat resistant cover so that you can carry it. The only thing missing was the main thing I needed- the heat dial. If that was present, I would've kept the iron. 

I then did further research and am between several. But before we go there, let me go over the ones that didn't make the cut. 

Sutra Seductress ($210USD)

The concept of being able to curl, wave and straighten with this is an awesome idea. I also bought this until I read the reviews. Needless to say- terrible reviews. A lot of people said that it stopped working about 8 months in and they had problems with switching them using the warranty. I also read a review where they tried to email the Sutra customer service and never received a response. 

GhD Classic ($185USD)

No heat dial- which is a shame. Apparently the iron is at a constant 375 degrees but I usually iron my hair on no more than 325, so I'm nervous to even try it on my hair. Plus, it's a little out if my price range. 

T3 Luminous Tourmaline Flat Iron ($99USD)

The reviews said this one was cheap and not worth the money, so i didn't bother to waste my time. 

I looked at reviews and I'm between three irons now. 

T3 Single Pass ($160USD)

This is the iron I originally wanted. Though a bit steep in price, the reviews are pretty great about this iron and the warranty experience. 

DryBar ($125USD)

Some review say this iron isn't that impressive either, others say it's fantastic. Since Sephora lets you return if you're dissatisfied, I bought it to use in the interim while waiting for the following iron to finally be sent to the store.  

Review post to follow. 

Agave Healing Vapor Iron ($149USD)

This is actually a newer development. I've decided on this because of the hydrating serum concept. The heat vapor piqued my curiousity. I finally got this. Review post to follow. If things don't work out with this iron, I will get the T3 SinglePass. Allure thinks it's worth it.