Diagnosis
The titanium coating on the plates is delaminating, a process known as spalling. This is typically caused by repeated thermal expansion and contraction cycles from heating up and cooling down, especially rapid cooling like running the iron under water. It can also be accelerated by physical abrasion from clanging the plates together, dropping the iron, or using it on extremely dirty or product-caked hair.
How to Fix It
Immediately discontinue using the flat iron. The flaking edges will snag, pull, and severely damage hair strands. Locate the serial number, usually on the handle or near the power cord. Contact BaBylissPRO customer service directly via their official website or phone line. Provide the serial number, purchase details, and photos of the peeling plates. For irons still within the warranty period (typically one year), this defect is commonly covered for repair or replacement.
If That Didn't Work
If your iron is out of warranty, the official repair is a complete plate assembly replacement, which is a specialized service. For the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium, this is not a user-serviceable part. The titanium coating cannot be safely or effectively reapplied at home. As a cost-effective alternative, consider replacing the entire unit, as the repair cost often approaches the price of a new iron.
Heads Up
Never use a flat iron with flaking plates. While the titanium flakes themselves are not toxic, the exposed base metal underneath the coating will have different thermal properties, leading to uneven heat distribution that can scorch hair. The rough plate surface will also cause irreversible mechanical damage to the hair cuticle.