A straightening iron is a styling tool that can create sleek, straight hair from even the curliest mops. Sometimes known as flat irons, straightening irons grasp hair between flat plates that are usually ceramic coated, allowing for even heat distribution. The American Academy of Dermatology explains the iron works by using heat to break and then reform the hydrogen bonds in the inner core of the hair fiber. Because heat can damage hair, it's important to use the straightening iron carefully.
Step 1
Shampoo and condition your hair as usual. It's important to start with clean hair because product buildup can accumulate on the plates of the straightening iron. Dry your hair thoroughly; using a straightening iron on wet or even damp hair can damage the hair.
Step 2
Adjust the heat setting on your straightening iron to the lowest possible setting that will still effectively straighten your hair. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a setting no hotter than 347 degrees Fahrenheit, or a low to medium setting.
Step 3
Clip most of your hair on top of your head, and pull down just one small section to start with. The size of the sections will vary depending on the length and thickness of your hair, but they should be small and manageable. Trying to straighten too much hair at once won't allow the heat to penetrate and straighten the hair evenly.
Step 4
Grasp the section of hair in between the plates of the iron and run it from root to tip without stopping. Allowing the iron to have prolonged contact with any section of hair can lead to excess damage. Continue the process on each section of hair until the hair is straightened.
Tips and Warnings
- For extra protection against the heat of the straightening iron, apply a leave-in thermal protector to your hair. These usually come in the form of a spray, and form a protective barrier between your hair and the straightening iron.
- The American Academy of Dermatology reports that temperature settings of 347 degrees and above can cause damage in as little as five minutes, and if your hair is chemically processed it can be damaged more quickly.
Things You'll Need
- Straightening iron
- Hair clip
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