I'm sure there are some people who would describe this as a torture device instead of a hair care accessory, but this is an old school vintage hot comb. It was meant to function essentially like a hair iron, you'd heat it up on the stove for straightening out (most often) black hairstyles. While there are other, safer options these days, it could still be used- but maybe as just a comb, instead of something to burn peoples' necks for the sake of fashion.