How to Use a Flat Iron

Using a flat iron to straighten hair is easy to do by simply following a few steps. When selecting a flat iron, some studies have shown that using a flat iron with a ceramic plate is better for the health of your hair than using a flat iron with a metal plate. Keep that in mind when purchasing your flat iron.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Flat iron
• Straightening balm
• Heat protection spray

1. Dry your hair completely. Using a flat iron on wet hair isn't successful. Be sure that your hair is dry from the tips to the roots. Don't put in any hair products while drying your hair. Adding hair spray or gel prior to the use of a flat iron could have adverse effects when you are attempting to straighten your hair.
2. Use a straightening balm on your hair after it has been dried. A straightening balm will eliminate frizz, while providing protection for your hair. See the Resources section for more information.
3. Apply a heat protection spray to your hair to help defend your hair against damage caused by heat based styling tools such as flat irons. See the Resources section for more information.
4. Read the packaging of your flat iron, and set the flat iron at the appropriate temperature. Carefully look over the instruction manual.
5. Use the flat iron on 2-inch segments of hair at a time. Place the flat iron near your scalp and steadily move the flat iron toward the tip of your hair. Repeat until you have straightened all of your hair.