Heat is hard on your hair, so baby it a little during the washing process. After you shampoo and condition your hair, apply a heat protectant. For extra moisture, you can add a hair care oil. You don’t need to add more than a drop. Make sure not to add the oil too close to your scalp as this can make your hair look greasy. Keep the oil 2. 5 to 3 inches away from the scalp. [3] X Research source
You may be able to find a product that is both a straightening product and a heat protectant. Ask your stylist for a recommendation.
If you have thin hair that tends to dry quickly, you can just let it air dry. However, you’ll need to use the flat iron afterwards to create your straight look. For a sleeker look, run a flat iron over your hair after you dry it. Make sure your hair is completely dry before using a flat iron. If your hair is still wet, the flat iron could cause your hair to boil which can result in hair damage. [7] X Research source Missing some sections while blow drying can also lead to unwanted frizz. [8] X Expert Source Christine GeorgeMaster Hair Stylist & Colorist Expert Interview. 10 January 2020.
If you have short, thick, or fine hair look for an iron with narrow plates. Ideally, the size of the plates in your flat iron should be between half an inch to one inch long. [10] X Research source For longer hair, look for an iron with longer plates. Pick an iron with plates between one and a half to two inches wide. [11] X Research source Regardless of your hair type, make sure that your flat iron isn’t too heavy. If it weighs more than a couple pounds, you’ll end up getting sore while using it. [12] X Research source
Not all flat irons allow you to adjust the heat. If your hair is undamaged and of average density, it should be safe for you to use a flat iron without adjustable heat. However, if you have special needs regarding your hair splurge on a more expensive flat iron where you can control the heat. [13] X Research source If your hair is fine or damaged, keep the heat between 250 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit. [14] X Research source If your hair is of medium thickness, set the heat between 300 and 350 degrees Fahrenheit. [15] X Research source If you have thick hair, set the heat between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. [16] X Research source
Section your hair before you begin straightening. Separate your hair into 4 sections, then work with . 5 inches (1. 3 cm) pieces until you finish each section. Don’t try to straighten more than about . 5 inches (1. 3 cm) of hair in 1 pass. Thicker hair will need more sections than thinner hair. Start with the section near the nape of your neck. [17] X Research source Comb the section of hair, then pass your flat iron over it. Comb it again after it’s straightened. Move through your hair with the flat iron one section at a time. Go slowly, keeping a steady pace. Ideally, you’ll want the sections of hair to flatten out on the first try. Going over the same section more than once can dry out hair and lead to damage. [18] X Research source Use tension when pulling the flattener across your hair. You do not want to cause yourself pain, but applying a bit of pressure can help get your hair smooth and flat on the first try. [19] X Research source
Wash your hair with shampoo and then towel dry it. Comb your hair and separate it into 4 to 6 sections. If you have thicker hair, you’ll need more sections. [21] X Research source Apply the conditioner to your hair, one section at a time. Start at the root and move down to the tip. When you finish with all the sections, but your hair in a shower cap. Apply heat to your hair. You can use a hood dryer, with the heat set to medium, for 20 minutes. If you don’t have a hood dryer, you can throw a towel in the dryer and wrap it around your head for 20 minutes. [22] X Research source Once your done applying heat, remove the shower cap and rinse your hair in cool water. Towel dry your hair and then brush and style as normal. [23] X Research source
Style your hair as you normally wear it, even though your hair is wet. For example, create a side part, or comb your bangs forward, if you have them. If necessary, use a towel to keep the lotion off of your face. Comb the lotion through your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb for the process. Comb for about 10 minutes, until your hair is fully saturated with the lotion. [24] X Research source Check your hair in the mirror. Hopefully, the curls should be relaxing a bit. If this is not working, comb your hair for another 5 minutes or until you notice this effect. [25] X Research source
The products used in perming kits can be hard on hair. Make sure to use conditioner when you shower after using this method. This will revitalize any moisture your hair lost and prevent further damage. Even if you don’t shampoo, use conditioner each day for about a week. [29] X Research source
Use a round bristle brush. Run it through your hair, pulling it straight, as you blow dry. If your hair is thick and takes a long time to dry, alternate between hot and cold settings on your hair dryer. This can prevent hair damage.
