How to Use a Flat Iron on Curly Hair Without Ruining It
Welcome to this essential guide on how to use a flat iron on curly hair without causing damage. Whether you desperately want straight hair or just want to manage curls, knowing the right techniques is key.
Do’s for Flat Ironing Curly Hair
Here are some indispensable tips to make the most of your flat iron on your curly hair:
1. Use a Straightening Balm on Damp Hair
Just before you start, apply a balm to your damp hair up to your scalp. This ensures the hair is protected without making it look greasy. BumbleBumble is a popular choice.
2. Blow Dry Your Hair Thoroughly
Blow dry your hair until it's bone dry and as straight as possible. Use a flat paddle brush with vents to gently straighten the hair. Direction is crucial as curly hair is prone to frizz.
3. Separate Small Pieces with Clips
Use large clips to divide your hair into small pieces. Start from the bottom, no thicker or wider than your thumb. Run the flat iron through each piece, setting it to a temperature low enough to straighten your hair. Avoid leaving the iron in one spot for too long.
4. Apply Shine Oil at the Ends
After ironing, apply a tiny amount of shine oil to your palms and work it from the ends up to just above your scalp. This helps seal the cuticle and protect against humidity.
5. Use Quality Haircare Products
Invest in a good shampoo and conditioner, and use a straightening product. Finish with a shine serum to keep your curls in place. Moroccan Oil and BumbleBumble are favorites, but any product that doesn’t leave your hair sticky will do.
Don’ts for Flat Ironing Curly Hair
These are common mistakes to avoid to ensure your hair stays healthy:
1. Never Use a Tool to Do Another Tool's Job
A flat iron is for straightening, not curling. Utilize a curling wand or iron for that purpose. Watching infomercials can lead to disappointing results.
2. Don't Straighten Your Hair Every Day
This can damage your hair, especially if you use heat protectants. Limit straightening to a couple of times a week. Curly hair needs time to rest and grow.
3. Never Chemically Straighten Your Hair
Keratin treatments are generally better, but chemical straighteners can damage your hair permanently. For coarse curls, consider other styling methods like scrunching or braid sets.
Invest in the Right Tools
Purchasing the right tools can make all the difference in your hair's health:
1. Choose a High-Quality Flat Iron
Select a temperature adjustable flat iron without extra features. Spend a little more on quality; a good tool should last for years. I've had my Chi flat iron for over a decade!
2. Use Quality Hair Care Products
Invest in a good shampoo and conditioner. Consider using a straightening balm or a lightweight oil that doesn't weigh your hair down.
3. Protect Your Hair with Heat Protectants
Apply a heat protectant before straightening to minimize damage. A simple, non-greasy leave-in conditioner can also help.
Stay away from products that list multiple features as their selling points. Focus on what works best for you and your hair type.
Final Thoughts
Remember, successful hair styling is about finding the right balance. Don't be afraid to experiment with different products and techniques until you find what works best for your curly hair. Happy styling!