Using hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstani power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Kyrgyzstan?

First check your hair straighteners can work in Kyrgyzstan:

  • If your hair straighteners can run using 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you will only need to bring an appropriate power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair straighteners won't fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with a 220 volt Kyrgyzstani power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the wall outlet used in Kyrgyzstan, therefore please check that your voltage transformer has a power adapter for Kyrgyzstan otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Also worth noting that your own existing hair straighteners might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 220 volts 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 Kyrgyzstan please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan

Will my hair straighteners work in Kyrgyzstan?

That will depend on if your hair straighteners is designed to operate using the 220 volt power outlets used in Kyrgyzstan. If you're using either dual voltage hair straighteners or your hair straighteners is designed to operate using 220 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you can use it in Kyrgyzstan. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read the section on will a power converter work with your hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Kyrgyzstan power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in a Kyrgyzstani power outlet?

The frequency used in a Kyrgyzstani power outlet is 50Hz. [8]

What is the mains voltage in Kyrgyzstan?

Power outlets in Kyrgyzstan are 220 volts.

Which travel adapter do you need when using  hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan?

Type C and F power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need when using hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Kyrgyzstan, types F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify the wall socket by the two holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type F - You can identify the wall socket by the two large holes 19 mm adjacent to each other for live and neutral along with two metal grounding clips above and below.

A recommended plug adapter to bring when using 220 volt hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan is a Type F power adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan with a power adapter. Note that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you might also have to use a voltage converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Dual voltage hair straighteners

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

Single voltage hair straighteners

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

An easy way how to tell if your hair straighteners supports a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or the handle. This location will depend on the make or model of your hair straighteners and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair straighteners might change automatically but other models will feature a switch which allows you to change between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Kyrgyzstan then you should be able to use your hair straighteners with a Kyrgyzstani power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 220 volts used in a Kyrgyzstani power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair straighteners then you can use it in Kyrgyzstan.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair straighteners will be capable of being used in Kyrgyzstan or any other country if these numbers are shown.
 [2] [AD]

Travelling to Kyrgyzstan with hair straighteners

Can you take hair straighteners in your carry on?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can you take hair straighteners in your carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there are no restrictions when bringing mains powered hair straighteners in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Kyrgyzstan will allow hair straighteners onboard and that they will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your hair straighteners in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves them easily accessible for airport security checks, they can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around hair straighteners). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive hair straighteners in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during your journey.    [2] [10] [11] [12] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my hair straighteners to Kyrgyzstan?

Bringing dual voltage travel hair straighteners are preferable to packing your existing hair straighteners as it is safer to assume that they will operate correctly with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Kyrgyzstani power outlet, as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Kyrgyzstan. Note that packing expensive domestic hair straighteners might put them at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by airport baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience of replacing expensive quality hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan might be more than buying cheaper dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] . If you intend to pack 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 also allows the hair straighteners to be transported whilst hot without risk of burning.   [11] [13] [AD]

Power converters for Kyrgyzstan

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

Voltage converter

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

A cheap, small and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to slot into a power outlet found in Kyrgyzstan, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform a 220 volt Kyrgyzstani power outlet to work with non-220 volt hair straighteners. [7] [AD]

Do I need a voltage converter to use my hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow hair straighteners using a different voltage to operate using a 220 volt power outlet used in Kyrgyzstan. Travellers who wish to bring their own hair straighteners can use a power converter, but it can be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2]. A power converter is also noticeably heavier than travel hair straighteners making a power converter less suitable for packing in luggage. [7] [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?

A heat resistant glove

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.    [11] [13] [14] [15] [16] [17] [AD]
How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

Hair straighteners connected to a timer power outlet

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.
  [16] [18] [AD]

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 Kyrgyzstan using a type C power adapter

How to power your hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan by using a Type C power adapter.

  1. Ensure that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply; but if not then do not proceed as you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair straighteners which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to accept 220 volts, consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in Kyrgyzstan doesn't accomodate the plug shape on your hair straighteners you will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. This plug adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Kyrgyzstan simply 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 220 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the Kyrgyzstani power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the 2 circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins slide into.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Kyrgyzstani power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the straighteners to use in Kyrgyzstan. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan using a type C power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan using a type F power adapter

Instructions showing how to use hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan using a 2 pronged Type F power charger.

  1. Check that the straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply but if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage hair straighteners might usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts; please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type F plug adapter [6] if the type of plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Kyrgyzstan. The plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Kyrgyzstan by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type F plug adapter into the power outlet. This recessed round plug supply can be recognised by two round holes 19 mm next to each other where the live and neutral pins go and a pair of thin grounding clips above and below.
  4. After that plug in your hair straighteners into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Kyrgyzstani power outlet.
  6. Your straighteners can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Kyrgyzstan using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Kyrgyzstan Wikipedia page
  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 F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  7. 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..
  8. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  9. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  10. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  11. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  12. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  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. 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.
  15. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
  16. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
  17. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
  18. 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..