How to Straighten Hair with a Flat Iron

Want a straight, sleek look and stuck with frizzies? It's easy to tame your curls with a flat iron.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flat iron
• Anti-frizz serum or styling product of choice with hold
• Brush
• Blow dryer
• Clips

1. Be aware that it's best to begin the straightening process with clean, dry hair. After washing, blow drying your hair straight will make controlling curls easier. To do so, dry hair in sections using a round, flat brush. Don't worry if it's still wavy or frizzy. You'll fix this with the flat iron.

2. Begin by separating your hair into sections vertically. The thicker your hair, the more sections you should have. Clip the top first, then make sections all the way down your head, leaving the last section loose.

3. Turn your hair straightener on medium or low heat. It's best to test out lower levels of heat first to prevent burning. However, as you are straightening, if you don't find it effective, turn up the heat.

4. Grab a section of your hair and place the flat iron as close to the roots as possible without it burning your scalp. Slide the iron down the section gradually. Don't stop in any one place or it will make your hair look crimped! Let go as the iron reaches your hand and pull the iron through to the ends.

5. Repeat this process from one side of your head to the other horizontally. After you complete each section, unclip the section above it and repeat the process.

6. Apply a straightening serum or hold spray to keep the look.

Tips & Warnings

• Flat irons come in varying widths. Thin irons are best for thin hair and bangs, while wide irons work best on large sections.
• Take it slow. Rushing through will only result in frizziness or missed curls.
• A ceramic iron is gentlest on hair.
• Straightening your hair can cause serious damage. Make sure to treat your hair to a deep conditioning treatment once a week and spray a heat protectant on before using styling tools.