Philips BHS393 StraightCare Straightener

Philips BHS393 StraightCare Straightener.

This model is a significant and premium entry in Philips's lineup. While it shares the "StraightCare" name, indicating a focus on hair health, the BHS393 often represents a more advanced or specialized version, typically featuring wider plates and sometimes additional technologies.

Key Features at a Glance

• Model: Philips BHS393 StraightCare Straightener

• Defining Technology: OptimalTEMP Technology (constant, protective 185°C heat) is almost certainly included.

• Key Differentiator: Extra-wide plates – typically 50mm (2 inches) wide.

• Plate Material: Advanced ceramic coating for even heat distribution and smooth glide.

• Temperature: Fixed at the optimal 185°C (365°F).

• Heat Up Time: Very fast (approx. 30 seconds).

• Special Features: Swivel cord, automatic safety shut-off, often includes a heat-resistant travel pouch.

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Detailed Breakdown

1. Design and Usability: The Power of Wide Plates

• 50mm Plates: This is the most significant feature of the BHS393. The plates are much wider than those on a standard straightener (which are usually 25mm-33mm).

• Why Wide Plates Matter:

  • Speed: You can straighten much larger sections of hair at once. This is a game-changer for people with long, thick, or very dense hair, drastically cutting down styling time.

  • Versatility: The wide surface area is excellent for creating soft, loose, beachy waves and adding volume to the roots. It's less ideal for creating very tight, precise curls.

  • Smoothing: Excellent for quickly smoothing out the overall surface of the hair for a sleek, salon-like blowout look.

• Ergonomics & Swivel Cord: Designed for comfort during use, with a swivel cord to prevent tangling.

2. Performance and Technology: OptimalTEMP for Health

The BHS393 combines the efficiency of wide plates with the health benefits of the StraightCare philosophy.

• OptimalTEMP Technology: Like its siblings (BHS375, BHS376, BHS377), it operates at a constant 185°C. This temperature is scientifically chosen to style hair effectively without causing the severe damage associated with high heat (230°C+).

• The Technique: The technique remains the same: use more passes on thicker sections, fewer on finer ones. The wide plates just mean each "pass" covers a much larger area.

• Result: You get the speed and efficiency of a professional-wide iron combined with the gentle, damage-limiting care of OptimalTEMP technology. Your hair gets styled quickly and healthily.

3. Who Is It Best For?

• People with Long, Thick, or Coarse Hair: This is the ideal user. The 50mm plates are designed to tackle your hair type efficiently.

• Anyone Who Wants to Save Time: If you dread how long it takes to style your hair, the wider plates will significantly speed up the process.

• Those Who Prefer Loose Waves and Voluminous Styles: The wide plates are perfect for creating these looks.

• Damage-Conscious Users with Abundant Hair: You don't have to choose between health and practicality; this iron offers both.

4. Who Might Prefer a Different Model?

• People with Very Short Hair or Pixie Cuts: The wide plates can be cumbersome and difficult to maneuver around short layers and precise sections.

• Those who want to create very tight, defined curls or precise, sharp styles: A narrower plate (25mm-30mm) offers much more control for these techniques.

• Users with exclusively fine, thin hair: The wide plates may be overkill, and a standard width might offer more than enough capacity and better control.

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Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

• Ideal for thick and long hair; drastically reduces styling time.

• OptimalTEMP technology protects hair from extreme heat damage.

• Perfect for creating loose waves and adding volume.

• Smooths hair quickly for a sleek finish.

• All the benefits of the StraightCare line (even heat, swivel cord, safety shut-off).

Cons:

• Too large for short hair or very precise styling.

• Not the best tool for creating tight curls.

• As with all OptimalTEMP irons, it requires multiple passes on the most resistant hair types.

BHS393 vs. Other Philips StraightCare Straighteners

Verdict

The Philips BHS393 StraightCare Straightener is a specialist tool for a specific need.

It is not a one-size-fits-all straightener. Instead, it is the perfect solution for anyone with long, thick, or abundant hair who is serious about reducing heat damage.

If you have always needed to use high-heat irons to manage your hair and have suffered the damage that comes with it, the BHS393 is designed for you. It combines the time-saving power of extra-wide plates with the hair-preserving science of OptimalTEMP technology. It's an excellent investment for those who want health and efficiency in one package.