'As curly hair is more fragile, do not use a straightener on a heat setting higher than 375 degrees,' she says. If you have natural hair or curly hair and you want to try using this tool to create looser curls, hairstylist Lana Grand notes that it's super important to turn the heat setting way down on your tool.

“Always use caution, as nothing fully protects the hair from excess heat damage, but CAKE BEAUTY The Glow Drop Iridescent Shine Serum can lessen the pain it causes.” 2. “When looking to protect your hair from tool damage, it's best to use products that carry some ingredients that sit on the surface of your hair as well as have great penetration value,” hairstylist Marilisa Sears says. If your hair is color-treated, fine, or already damaged, be sure to always use a heat protectant or thermal spray before using a flat iron to keep the hair as healthy as possible. Use a heat protectant spray.Īs is the case with all hot tools, using a straightener too often can be damaging to your hair health.

What to Know Before Getting Startedīefore you turn on your straightener and give these techniques a try, there are a few prep tips the pros want you to know. Lana Grand is a Los Angeles-based celebrity hairstylist, colorist, and blonde hair expert. Christine Thompson is co-founder and master colorist at Spoke & Weal. Ready to learn how to use this hair styling tool like a pro? Here's how to use a straightener to create three stunning types of curls and waves.Ībout the Experts: Marilisa Sears is a hairstylist, artistic director, and ambassador for Cake Beauty. Another bonus is that it’s easier to get those cool-girl, effortless, looser curls that you just can’t get with a curling iron.

Aside from helping to declutter your beauty cabinet (or carry-on bag), using this versatile tool to curl also comes with some other major benefits.īecause the plates of a flat iron heat up evenly, your curls are more likely to last longer, making this a great option for those who struggle with their curls going limp shortly after perfecting them. With the right technique, this styling tool can also work flawlessly as a curling iron, creating everything from full, bouncy curls to soft beach waves with ease. Despite its name, a flat iron can do so much more than just straighten your hair.

How to curl hair with flat iron