I love my flat iron. I absolutely love my hair when its straightened. I have loose waves naturally, but I usually style it. I blow dry and flat iron my hair around two times a week. I also dye my hair, but I use a gentler professional dye. My hair is in excellent condition and I always get compliments from my stylist (though I only go in for a trim two or three times a year). Right now I'm at 21" and probably won't go much longer. I know a lot of people on here swear off heat, but I really think it depends on the tools. I have used cheap tools in the past and they were horrible for my hair. I only use professional tools now and my hair looks great. I love Chi and I have a flat iron and blow dryer made by them. Does anyone else flat iron? Is your hair in good condition? I honestly think you can use heat and still have amazing hair if you use the right tools!