To get straight, sleek, and shiny hair, you must straighten your hair using the right tools and following the right procedure. Here are some tips to follow on how to straighten your hair like a pro without causing damage.
Choose the Right Flat Iron
Flat irons come in various sizes. The length and thickness of the hair should be the determinant factor in selecting flat iron. Using the right size of flat iron will prevent you from damaging your hair and give you sleek results.
For long and thick hair, use a flat iron with 1 and a half-inch to 2 inches wider plates. For short, thick, or fine hair, use a narrow flat iron ranging from half an inch to 1-inch plates. This will enable you to iron small sections.
Select the Right Temperature
Your hair type and texture should determine the temperature you select. You are less likely to damage your hair when you subject it to the right temperature.
Fine hair requires low temperature while thick and coarse hair will require high temperature.
For fine or damaged hair: 250-300 degrees
For medium or average hair: 300-350 degrees
For thick or coarse hair: 350-400 degrees
Use the Right Material of Flat Iron
Flat irons are made of three main materials which include titanium, tourmaline, and ceramic. Straighteners with these materials heat more evenly, thus less heat damage to your hair.
They release negative ions, which prevents moisture loss and tightens hair’s cuticle, making it look healthier, Shinier, and less frizzy.
Prepare Hair Properly
You need to prepare your hair properly before passing it through heat.
If you have light tresses, wash them with lightweight volumizing shampoo and conditioner.
When done, apply a volumizing mousse with a built-in heat guard. Blow-dry your hair by lifting from the roots to create volume. Use a natural hair brush to smoothen the hair from the mid to the ends.
For thick hair, cleanse it with levelling shampoo and conditioner. Once done, apply a flattening serum that has heat protection. Finish by blow-drying your hair and straightening it.
Section Your Hair
To get a sleek, polished clean look, start by dividing your hair into small handy sections. If your hair is thick, then you will need to make more sections. Grab half an inch to 2-inch section of hair at the bottommost half of your head.
The next step is to hold each section and smooth the iron down about half an inch from the roots to the end of the hair. Ensure you move firmly to get even heat distribution. Repeat the process to all sections of the hair and apply a shine spray.
If you look for a more voluminous look, iron your hair from the mid-shaft to the ends. For added flips, twist your wrist away from the face once you reach close to the end of the shaft.
Remember that your hair is most fragile when it’s wet. Always make sure it is dry before you iron to avoid breakage. Using the right flat iron and following the simple procedure will help you straighten your hair like a pro.
