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Hair straighteners: a significant burn risk
Eleonore E Breuning1, Remo P G Papini
1University Hospital Birmingham, Raddlebarn Road, Birmingham B29 6JD, UK. elly_breuning@hotmail.com
Burns : Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
|November 27, 2007
Summary
Hair straighteners reach high temperatures and remain a burn risk for up to 44 minutes after switching off. This study highlights the danger of unattended hair styling tools, especially for children.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Consumer Product Safety
Background:
- Hair straighteners are common household appliances.
- Investigated temperatures and cooling times of hair straighteners.
- Presented a case of a child with deep dermal burns from a hair straightener.
Observation:
- Eight hair straighteners were tested using a calibrated thermometer.
- Maximum temperatures and cooling times to 40°C were recorded.
- Plate sizes ranged from 22.5 to 53.9cm², mostly ceramic.
Findings:
- Average maximum temperature reached was 163°C (122-210°C).
- Mean cooling time to 40°C was 26 minutes (18-44 minutes).
- None of the tested devices could be locked closed.
Implications:
- Hair straighteners pose a significant burn risk when left unattended.
- The risk persists for up to 44 minutes after the device is switched off.
- Recommendations are offered to improve the safety of hair straighteners.
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