Using hair straighteners in Guadeloupe

Will my hair straighteners work in Guadeloupe?

First check that your hair straighteners can work in Guadeloupe:

• If your hair straighteners can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair straighteners will not fit.

If not then you can either:

• Use dual voltage travel hair straighteners ^[2] - you may still need to use the correct power adapter for Guadeloupe however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel.

Buy travel hair straighteners for Guadeloupe

• Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with a 230 volt Guadeloupe power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the wall outlet used in Guadeloupe, therefore check that your voltage transformer has the right power adapter for Guadeloupe otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your existing hair straighteners might not be suitable for travel and you could risk potential damage in transit. [9] [AD]

Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 230 volts used in Guadeloupe you run the potential risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair straighteners or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair straighteners in Guadeloupe please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Guadeloupe power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Guadeloupe?

Power outlets in Guadeloupe are 230 volts.

What frequency is used in a Guadeloupe power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current in a Guadeloupe power outlet is 50 Hz. [10]

Which power adapter do you need to bring to use hair straighteners in Guadeloupe?

There are three different types of power outlets used in Guadeloupe, types D, C and E with the primary power outlets being type D:

• Plug Type C - The wall socket is identified by 2 round holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral.
• Plug Type D - You can identify this plug outlet by the 3 round holes in a triangular shape.
• Plug Type E - This recessed round plug outlet, also known as a CEE 7/7 plug, can be identified by the two circular holes 19mm apart from each other where the live and neutral pins slide into and a single metal grounding pin protruding the top forming a triangular configuration.

A Type D plug adapter will allow you to use 230 volt hair straighteners in Guadeloupe - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use hair straighteners in Guadeloupe with a plug adapter. Note that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you might also have to use a voltage converter.  [6] [11] [AD]

Plug adapters for Guadeloupe

Dual voltage hair straighteners

How can I tell if my hair straighteners are dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair straighteners will handle a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or the plug of the hair straighteners. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair straighteners, it could also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair straighteners might change automatically but other models will feature a button or switch which allows you to change between different regions.

• A specific number such as 110V indicates single voltage hair straighteners. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Guadeloupe then you should be able to use your hair straighteners with a Guadeloupe power outlet.
• A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates single voltage hair straighteners which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 230 volts used in a Guadeloupe power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair straighteners then you can use it in Guadeloupe.
• A larger voltage range separated with a dash or slash such as 100/240V indicates dual voltage hair straighteners capable of being used in Guadeloupe or any other country.

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Travelling to Guadeloupe with hair straighteners

Is it better to bring travel hair straighteners or domestic hair straighteners to Guadeloupe?

It is preferable to packing dual voltage travel hair straighteners rather than packing your existing domestic hair straighteners to Guadeloupe as it ensures that they'll work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Guadeloupe power outlet, provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Guadeloupe.

Please be aware that packing expensive domestic hair straighteners might place them at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by airport baggage handlers. The costs involved in replacing or repairing expensive quality hair straighteners in Guadeloupe could outweigh the cost of purchasing cheap dual voltage travel hair straighteners ^[2] before setting off. If you intend to bring along your own hair straighteners in your luggage either slot them inside a sneaker or boot to protect from light knocks, alternatively use a shockproof and heat resistant hot tools travel case or heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons which will also allow the hair straighteners to be packed whilst hot without risk of burning.   [12] [13] [AD]

Can I carry on hair straighteners to Guadeloupe?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there is no restriction on bringing mains powered hair straighteners in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Guadeloupe will allow hair straighteners onboard and that they will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing your hair straighteners in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves them easily accessible when going through airport security, they can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around hair straighteners). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair straighteners in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during your journey.    [2] [12] [14] [15] [AD]

Power converters for Guadeloupe

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?

A heavy and bulky power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a Guadeloupe power outlet to work with non-230 volt hair straighteners, whereas a more lightweight and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to slot into a power outlet found in Guadeloupe. [9] [AD]

Can I use my hair straighteners with a voltage converter for Guadeloupe?

A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair straighteners using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Guadeloupe. A power converter is suitable for travellers wishing to use their existing domestic hair straighteners, however it might be cheaper to purchase dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners ^[2] than it is to purchase a power converter. A power converter is also significantly heavier and bulkier than travel hair straighteners making a power converter less suitable for packing in luggage. [9] [AD]

Hair straightener safety

Are hair straighteners dangerous?

The temperature of the ceramic plates used in hair straighteners can reach over 200 degrees with the potential to burn hair, skin, and even start a fire if not used correctly. According to figures from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service electrical beauty products have been responsible for an estimated 650,000 fires in the United Kingdom alone.

How can I minimise risk using hair straighteners?

• Skin protection: Wear heat resistant gloves during styling to protect hands from heat.
• Children's protection: With 10% of children's burns being caused by hair straighteners it is recommended to look for flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag to keep the plates closed shut when not in use, making it easier to store out of reach of children.
• Luggage protection: Placing hair straighteners directly into luggage without allowing them to cool down can risk damage to clothes and heating up combustible or flammable packed items. If your hair straighteners weren't supplied with a heat protective cap then wrap them in a heat resistant mat or use a hot tools travel case to pack them into luggage whilst warm. A travel case will also keep expensive hair straighteners protected from damage during transit.
• Hair protection: Applying a heat protectant spray prior to using hair straighteners is essential to prevent burning, as well as using the correct technique for your hair type - read our guide on how to use hair straighteners for comprehensive information.
• Fire protection: It can take up to 40 minutes for hair straighteners to cool down so resting your straighteners on a heat resistant mat could reduce the risk of setting fire to furniture. Forgetting to turn off hot domestic appliances can also cause fires. This risk can be reduced by using a model of straightener with a timer socket which will turn itself off automatically after a certain length of time, you can also add this feature to any basic straighteners by using a timer socket in a power outlet.    [12] [13] [16] [17] [18] [19] [AD]

How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

1 in 12 owners of hair straighteners admit to forgetting to turn them off after use, unless your hair straighteners have a built in automatic timer then leaving them on could potentially start a fire. However you can add this functionality to any model even if it doesn't have an integrated timer:

1. Add an automatic timer to any hair straighteners by plugging them into a timer socket then plugging the timer into a power outlet.
2. Turn on the timer and use the hair straighteners as normal.
3. After you have finishing using the hair straighteners turn off the power at the outlet.
4. However if you forget to turn the power outlet off then the timer will automatically switch off the straighteners after a pre-set length of time. Depending on the model of timer this could be 15, 30, 60 or 120 minutes - ideally pick the shortest length of time possible.
5. For added peace of mind use a power outlet splitter to share the outlet from the timer with both your hair straighteners and a lamp. When the timer is running both the straighteners and the lamp will be turned on, making the lamp a clear indicator that the straighteners are still being heated. When leaving a room it is second nature to ensure all lights are turned off, if the lamp is still on then this acts as a reminder to switch off the straighteners.

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How to treat a hot iron burn

If you accidentally burn yourself run cold water under your burn and if it is severe it is advised to seek medical attention from a doctor or hospital.

How to use hair straighteners in Guadeloupe using a type C power adapter

How to power your hair straighteners in Guadeloupe using a two prong Type C power adapter.

1. Make sure that the hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners ^[2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Travel straighteners sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating your hair straighteners ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting; please refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
2. If the plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Guadeloupe you will need to use a Type C plug adapter ^[4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Guadeloupe by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt supply.
3. Start by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. This ungrounded power outlet is identified by 2 round holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral.
4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type C plug adapter.
5. Switch on the Guadeloupe power outlet. Your hair straighteners can now be powered on. [AD]

How to use hair straighteners in Guadeloupe using a type D power adapter

How to power hair straighteners in Guadeloupe using a three pronged Type D power charger.

1. Check that the hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners ^[2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply; but if not then do not proceed because you could damage your hair straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage hair straighteners sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners ensure the switch is set to accept 230 volts, consult the user guide for more information on where the switch is found.
2. You'll need to buy a Type D plug adapter ^[6] if the type of power outlet used in Guadeloupe won't accomodate the plug shape of your hair straighteners. The Type D plug adapter helps convert different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Guadeloupe by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
3. Plug the Type D plug adapter into the power outlet. You can identify the wall outlet by the three holes in a triangular configuration.
4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type D plug adapter.
5. Turn on the Guadeloupe power outlet. You can now switch on the straighteners in Guadeloupe. [AD]

How to use hair straighteners in Guadeloupe using a type E power adapter

A guide showing how to use your hair straighteners in Guadeloupe with a Type E travel adapter.

1. Make sure that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners ^[2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply - if not then don't continue because you might damage your straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair straighteners make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts to use in Guadeloupe - refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
2. You will need to buy a Type E plug adapter ^[8] if the type of plug used on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the plug outlet which is used in Guadeloupe. The plug adapter is designed to convert plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet in Guadeloupe simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
3. Begin by taking the Type E plug adapter and plugging it in the Guadeloupe power outlet. This sunken circular wall outlet (sometimes called the CEE 7/7 outlet or Type E power outlet ^[7]) can be recognised by two large adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral along with one long metal grounding pin protruding in the top in a triangle pattern.
4. After that plug in your hair straighteners into the Type E plug adapter.
5. Switch on the Guadeloupe power outlet. You can now turn on the straighteners to use in Guadeloupe. [AD]

See also

• What can I connect to a Guadeloupe power outlet?
• What can I connect to hair straighteners?

External links

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1. Wikipedia - Guadeloupe entry on Wikipedia.org
2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair straighteners
3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
5. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
6. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
7. iec.ch - Type E power outlet
8. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
9. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
10. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country - October 2017
11. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location - October 2017
12. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
13. Heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons - Protects surfaces from hot hair irons and wraps around the appliance allowing instant packing into baggage.
14. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners - October 2017
15. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
16. Heat resistant gloves for hair styling - Heat resistant glove recommended to protect skin against the risk of heat from a curling iron, flat iron or hair dryer.
17. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
18. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
19. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
20. Power outlet splitter - A power outlet splitter transforms a single wall outlet into multiple AC outlets which is a practical solution for using multiple appliances in locations with limited access to power outlets, such as hotels or airports..