
Remington Shine Therapy Straightener – Full Review and Guide
The Remington Shine Therapy Straightener range, available in two distinct models, has become a fixture on UK high street shelves and online stores thanks to its ceramic plates infused with Moroccan Argan oil. Both the standard S8500 and the wide-plate S8550 promise smoother, glossier hair at a price that undercuts many premium rivals. This article reviews the key features, real-world user feedback, UK pricing, and practical buying advice to help you decide which version fits your routine. For a broader look at top-rated styling tools, see our guide to the Best hair straighteners for shine and smoothness.
Remington’s Shine Therapy line sits in the mid-range segment of the hair-styling market. It competes with products from brands such as ghd and BaByliss but offers digital temperature control and argan-oil-coated plates at a more accessible price point. The range is marketed primarily toward anyone seeking salon-style shine without the salon price tag.
Two models currently dominate the line-up: the S8500, a standard-width straightener suitable for most hair types, and the S8550, a wide-plate version designed specifically for longer or thicker hair. Both share the same core technology but differ in plate dimensions, heat settings, and maximum temperature.
What Do Reviews Say About the Remington Shine Therapy Straightener?
- Users consistently report noticeably shinier and softer hair after using the S8500, citing the argan-oil-infused ceramic plates as a key factor.
- The wide-plate S8550 is preferred by people with longer or thicker hair because it styles larger sections in fewer passes.
- The most recommended heat setting for fine hair is 150°C–170°C; for thick or curly hair, 200°C–230°C works best.
- Both models are regularly available from major UK retailers including Boots, Amazon, and Argos, with typical prices between £25 and £40.
- No official Remington Shine Therapy straightener and hair dryer set exists, though some retailers offer bundle deals that pair the straightener with other styling tools.
- A YouTube reviewer summarised the S8500 as “really good especially for the price,” adding that hair felt “really soft and smooth” after use.
| Feature | S8500 | S8550 (Wide Plate) |
|---|---|---|
| Plate Width | Standard | Extra wide |
| Heat Settings | 9 (150–230°C) | 10 (150–235°C) |
| Coating | Ceramic + Argan Oil | Ceramic + Argan Oil |
| Floating Plates | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Display | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Shut-Off | Yes | Yes |
| UK Retail Price (approx.) | £25 – £35 | £30 – £40 |
Which Model Is Right for You? S8500 vs Wide Plate S8550
Key differences in plate width and design
The S8500 features standard-width floating plates, suitable for everyday straightening on short to medium-length hair. The S8550 uses extra-wide floating plates measuring 110 mm x 45 mm, which allow the user to style larger sections at once. Both plates are coated with advanced ceramic infused with Moroccan Argan oil, and both models include a temperature lock, plate lock for storage, and a heat-resistant pouch.
Heat settings and temperature control
The S8500 offers nine heat settings ranging from 150°C to 230°C. The S8550 adds one extra setting, reaching a maximum of 235°C across ten levels. Both straighteners heat up in approximately 15 seconds and include a turbo or temperature boost function. A digital display shows the selected temperature on both models, and an automatic shut-off activates after 60 minutes.
Which model suits your hair type?
The S8500 works well as a general-purpose straightener for fine to medium hair. The S8550 is better suited to long, thick, or voluminous hair where wider plates reduce styling time. Users with curly or coarser textures often prefer the higher maximum temperature of the S8550 for effective straightening.
Choose the S8500 if you have short-to-medium hair or want the lowest possible price. Choose the S8550 if your hair is long, thick, or you frequently style large sections. Both models deliver the same argan-oil-infused shine technology.
Where to Buy and How Much Does the Remington Shine Therapy Straightener Cost?
Current UK pricing for the S8500
UK prices for the S8500 vary considerably depending on the retailer and ongoing promotions. PriceSpy data shows best prices between £19 and £23, while PriceRunner lists the lowest price at £24.99 across 17 stores. Boots has listed the S8500 at around £46.99, and Amazon, Currys, and ao.com typically show prices between £24.99 and £27.00. eBay listings start from approximately £23.00.
Current UK pricing for the S8550
The wide-plate S8550 is frequently discounted. The Remington Europe official site offers a special price of £24.99, compared to a regular listed price of £79.99. Boots has shown the S8550 at £79.99, while Littlewoods currently sells it for £46.99. Justmylook also stocks the model, though prices are not always displayed in snippets. The wide price spread indicates that the S8550 is often promoted with significant discounts.
Warranty and guarantee information
Some UK listings for the S8500 mention a 5-year manufacturer guarantee. The S8550 listing on the Remington Europe site advertises a 5+1-year guarantee when registered online. Buyers should confirm the exact warranty terms with the retailer at the time of purchase.
There is a large gap between discount prices (around £19–£25) and full retail listings (up to £79.99). The Shine Therapy range is frequently discounted, so the best value depends heavily on timing and retailer promotions. Checking comparison sites before buying is advisable.
How to Use the Remington Shine Therapy Straightener Effectively
Choosing the right temperature for your hair type
Fine or damaged hair should be styled at lower settings, between 150°C and 170°C. Normal, healthy hair can tolerate medium heat around 180°C to 200°C. Thick, curly, or coarse hair responds best to higher temperatures between 200°C and 235°C, depending on the model. The digital display allows precise selection, and the temperature lock prevents accidental changes during use.
Tips for best results
For optimal shine, use the straightener on clean, completely dry hair. Section the hair before styling to ensure even heat distribution. Allow the plates to reach the selected temperature before each pass. The floating plates help maintain consistent pressure, reducing the risk of snagging or uneven straightening.
The straightener is designed for dry hair only. Using it on wet or damp hair can cause damage. Always use a heat protectant spray before styling. The straightener will automatically shut off after 60 minutes of inactivity.
Does Remington Offer a Shine Therapy Straightener and Hair Dryer Combo?
Remington does not currently sell an official Shine Therapy straightener and hair dryer set as a single packaged product. However, some UK retailers occasionally bundle the straightener with other Remington styling tools, including hair dryers, during promotional periods. These bundle deals are retailer-specific and vary by season. Checking individual store websites for current offers is the most reliable way to find a combined discount.
How Has the Shine Therapy Range Evolved Over Time?
- 2013 – Remington introduces the Shine Therapy straightener (S8500) with an argan oil coating, targeting the mid-range market.
- 2015 – The wide-plate variant S8550 launches, designed specifically for longer and thicker hair.
- 2020 – Updated packaging and minor design refinements appear, including a digital temperature display and floating plates.
- 2024 – Both models remain widely available; no new model has been announced. Remington continues to focus on other lines such as Wet2Straight.
Does the Remington Shine Therapy Straightener Actually Improve Shine?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| The S8500 has 9 heat settings from 150°C to 230°C. | The 86% shine improvement figure comes from Remington’s own testing; independent verification is limited. |
| Plates are coated with ceramic and infused with Moroccan Argan oil. | Long-term durability of the argan oil coating over multiple years of use is not widely documented. |
| Both models have a digital temperature display. | Availability of specific bundle deals (straightener + hair dryer) varies by retailer and season. |
| The S8550 has wider plates and an extra heat setting up to 235°C. | — |
How Does the Remington Shine Therapy Straightener Fit in the Market?
The Remington Shine Therapy straightener competes in the mid-range hair-styling segment. Its primary differentiator is the argan oil infusion, which is intended to reduce friction and enhance shine. Compared to similar products from brands such as ghd or BaByliss, the Remington offers digital temperature control at a more affordable price point. The wide-plate variant caters to users with denser hair who need faster passes.
However, the lack of a professional-grade warranty and the absence of features such as ionic technology may steer some users toward higher-end alternatives. The range also does not include a dedicated comb or brush attachment, which some competing straighteners offer.
What Do Official Sources and Real Users Say?
“86% more shine* • Advanced Ceramic coated plates infused with Moroccan Argan Oil • Digital temperature display • 9 settings 150°C – 230°C”
— Remington Official Product Page (S8500), Remington UK – S8500 product page
“Hair Straightener with Advanced Ceramic coating infused with Moroccan Argan Oil for sleek & smooth glide, Floating plates, Digital display.”
— Amazon UK Customer Review, Amazon UK listing for S8500
“Overall I would say this straightener is really good especially for the price. My hair feels really soft and smooth.”
— YouTube Review (user feedback), YouTube review of S8500
What Is the Bottom Line for Buyers?
The Remington Shine Therapy S8500 is the better-known value model and often the cheaper buy, while the S8550 wide plate is the more practical pick for thicker or longer hair. Both are marketed as shine-enhancing ceramic straighteners with Moroccan Argan oil, and both receive generally positive feedback for smoothness, ease of use, and affordability. For a broader view of the category, see our guide to the Best hair straighteners for shine and smoothness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Remington Shine Therapy Straightener have a swivel cord?
Yes, both the S8500 and S8550 models feature a 360° swivel cord for ease of use during styling.
Can I use the straightener on wet hair?
No, it is designed for dry hair only. Using it on wet hair can cause damage and affect performance.
What is the warranty period?
Remington typically offers a 2-year warranty, but terms vary by retailer. Some listings include a 5-year guarantee. Always verify at the point of purchase.
Are replacement plates available?
Remington does not sell replacement plates. The straightener is designed as a sealed unit and cannot be repaired by replacing individual components.
Does it work on synthetic hair?
It is not recommended for synthetic hair. Use only on natural human hair to avoid melting or damage.