L’Oréal's Innovative Flat Iron Revolutionizes Hair Styling with Infrared Technology

In the evolving world of hair styling gadgets, products like blow dryers, curling irons, and steam-based devices have surged in popularity over the last decade. With endless options and social media influencers often showcasing the latest must-haves, it’s challenging to stand out. Yet, during CES 2026, L’Oréal made waves with its introduction of the Light Straight.

From Airlight Pro Hairdryer to Light Straight

This intriguing innovation is grounded in the same technology that L’Oréal presented at CES 2024 through its Airlight Pro hairdryer. Traditional hair styling equipment primarily depends on heating elements, typically high-temperature coils and motors. However, the Airlight Pro diverged from this norm by incorporating infrared light to facilitate quicker and more efficient drying with less heat stress.

L’Oréal's latest entry in the flat iron category, the Light Straight, aims to harness infrared technology for hair straightening and curling with a single, efficient glide across the hair. Unlike conventional tools that reach temperatures well over 400 degrees Fahrenheit, this flat iron maintains a cooler maximum of 320 degrees, minimizing potential hair damage.

Faster, Smoother Hair Styling

The promises of the Light Straight are enticing: hair can be styled up to three times faster and results in smoother strands compared to traditional methods. This is a significant advantage for anyone looking to save time without compromising the integrity of their hair. With the threat of brittle, overheated locks, a less damaging approach is appealing.

Observations and Performance

While personal demonstrations on my own hair were off-limits for hygiene reasons, I observed a robotic arm equipped with the Light Straight swiftly maneuvering over test hair samples. The sleek design of the flat iron, coupled with its rapid heating capability, was evident. The strands curled and then straightened effortlessly, and surprisingly, remained comfortably cool to touch afterward. Although each hair type presents unique challenges in styling, L’Oréal asserts the device will suit most varieties.

Scheduled for release in 2027, the pricing details of the Light Straight remain undisclosed. As the technology evolves, L’Oréal is considering extending this infrared application into combination tools, integrating functionalities such as those of hairdryers and rolling brushes.