The Easiest Straightener for Beginners? The GHD Gold—Now on Sale for Prime Day

It seems we’re always chasing that elusive good hair day; a process made simple by the GHD Gold flat iron that takes the guesswork out of achieving sleek lengths and voluminous curls. A tried-and-true styling tool, this been a gold standard (pun intended) of hair straighteners since 2011. Heating up in just 25 seconds, it’s perfect for those who are always running fashionably late, transforming post-wash frizz into smooth, flowing locks in mere minutes. When better than to try it for yourself than while it’s 30% off this Amazon Prime Day?

• Why We Love It: GHD is certainly a household name in hairstyling tools; though, millennials and zillennials know they really shine in the world of flat irons. Celebrity hairstylist Adir Abergel says he loves GHD’s straighteners because of their smart heat technology. “This iron recognizes each section of hair and adapts the correct amount of heat that is necessary for each section,” he previously told Vogue. “The smoothness of the plates is critical for a silky press or flat iron waves so you can work in a flow.” In addition to sleek styles, the beveled edges mean you can also create curls and bouncy blowouts with ease without creasing.
• Heat Settings: 365 degrees Fahrenheit
• Available Sizes: 1 in.
• Plates: Aluminum coated in ceramic
• Cord Length: 8.8 ft, swivel
• Voltage: Universal

Beyond its lightning-fast heat-up time, this small but mighty straightener is impressively versatile. Its slightly beveled edges allow for more than just straightening—with a flick of the wrist, I can create bendy waves, flirty flips, or even fake a bouncy blowout in five minutes or less.

The GHD Gold also features smart heat sensors that maintain an optimal styling temperature—cooling things down if your hair gets too hot, which helps to prevent heat damage (though that’s no excuse to skip your heat protectant!). Fewer passes are needed to achieve my desired look, which not only protects my hair but also saves time—a major bonus when I’m deciding how to style in a pinch before heading out. Plus, the aluminum plates coated in ceramic amp up even heat distribution, gliding through hair without snagging.

And perhaps my favorite built-in safety net? The GHD straightener’s automatic sleep mode. It powers down after 30 minutes of inactivity—a true lifesaver for anyone who’s ever dashed out the door only to wonder later, “Did I turn the straightener off?” Effortless to use and currently marked down—this straightener delivers.

Looking for more of the best Prime Day deals? Don’t miss our editors’ picks of the best beauty and fashion on sale this Prime Day.