Client Question:

I’ve been trying to use a flat iron to straighten my naturally curly hair, but I must be doing something wrong. My hair feels dry, dull, and fried, and I never get that super-smooth look I always seem to get when i’m in the salon. How can I recreate the look at home without damaging my hair?

We get this question all the time from our salon clients. While we would love to do your hair every day, it’s both fun and financially-savvy to do it at home – as long as you keep these tips in mind.

Start with the right kind of straightener.

In general, the longer, thicker, and curlier your hair, the wider your flat iron should be. Flat irons come in several types of plates and price points – ceramic, titanium, and tourmaline are the most common. Tourmaline is typically the most expensive, but it also delivers shinier, straighter hair more consistently. As we often say, if you want salon-quality results, you have to use salon-quality products. We love the BaByliss Pro Nano Flat iron for that very reason.

Use a heat protectant spray.

This one is a must. Straighteners surround each strand of hair with direct, intense heat. Even the most amazing flat iron can damage hair if it isn’t protected adequately. Your stylist can recommend a great product for your particular hair type. One that we that love is Eufora Retain.

Use the proper technique.

Begin with super dry hair (blow dry for best results). Never flat iron wet hair. Divide your hair into sections, and work around your head, keeping hair taut as you gently pull layers through one at a time. The goal is to put strands through the iron one time only. Adjust the amount of hair you’re pulling through at each turn until you are getting straight results in a single pass.

Finish strong.

Always finish your freshly straightened hair with an anti-frizz formula such as Aveda light elements smoothing fluid. It will help catch any flyaways and leave hair feeling shiny and touchably soft.

 

I hope that straightens things out! Good luck!
Current Salon Team