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Professional Straightening Iron Tips

by Nathaly Blalock

Overview

Straightening irons are a great tool for straightening hair or for creating waves and curls. You don't have to be a professional to know how to use one to create the style that you want. By using a few easy tips, you can style your hair like a pro.
Choose Your Tool

There are many different types of flat irons. Professional quality ceramic irons are the healthiest option for your hair. Lower quality straightening irons are made with a thin ceramic coating that can be easily damaged, thus damaging your hair. The other factor to take into consideration is the size of the plates. One- to 1 1/2-inch plates are well suited for most hair types. Flat irons with plates these sizes are easy to maneuver and work well on both short and long hair. People with very long, thick or curly hair can opt for plates 2 inches wide. Remember that the larger the plates, the harder it is to maneuver the iron. If you want the option of curling and waving your hair, choose an iron with plates that have a rounded edge.

Before You Start

Begin by thoroughly washing and conditioning your hair. Having hair free of styling-product residue, dirt and grease is key to getting the best use out of your straightening iron. With your hair still wet, apply a product that protects hair from heat, such as a thermal spray or cream. This will help prevent damage from heat and keep your hair looking healthy. Next, blow dry your hair. Straightening irons work best on hair that is completely dry, not damp or wet.
Straightening Your Hair

Detangle your hair by brushing or combing through it. Separate your hair into small sections using clips. Don't make the mistake of trying to straighten too much hair at once. Straightening small sections at a time will give you even heating and will enable you to pass the iron through that section once or twice instead of many times, thus cutting down the amount of time it will take you to straighten your locks. Starting with a small section, press the plates together as close to your scalp as possible, and glide the iron down the strand of hair to the tip. Don't leave the iron on any one section for too long. Going too fast will also lessen your results. Repeat this process until all of your hair is straightened.
For Curls and Waves

If your straightening iron has rounded edges, you can also use it to create soft curls and waves. Begin by straightening your hair. Separate it into small sections. Beginning an inch or two away from your roots, press the plates together around a small section. Turn the iron, allowing the hair to wrap around it. You don't want to wrap it all the way around like you would do with a curling iron. Instead, turn the iron one full turn or a turn and a half, and then release it slowly in a downward motion. Repeat until all of your hair has soft curls and waves.