How to Use a Hair Iron

Hair irons come in many forms for both curling and straightening the hair. Curling iron wand size differs depending on your desired result--loose or tight curls. The wand of the hair irons are also covered in a variety of materials, including plated metal, ceramic and tourmaline. Ceramic and tourmaline curling and flat irons protect the hair shaft by emitting a controlled amount of heat. Choose hair irons that have adjustable heat settings to help prevent damage to your hair.

Things You'll Need

• Hair iron (curling or straightening)
• Comb
• Hairspray or styling spritz

Instructions

How to Use a Hair Iron

1. Wash your hair and dry it completely. Hair irons produce much less damage to clean hair that is free of gel, hairspray, and oil buildup. Never use any type of hair iron on wet hair, because it will result in damaged and frayed hair ends.

2. Divide your hair directly down the center, separating the two parts completely. Secure one side with a rubber band or clip while you use a hair iron on the other side.

3. Divide one portion of your hair into 1- to 2-inch sections. If you're using a flat iron, open the plates and insert the hair, beginning close to the scalp. Use the handle to squeeze the clamp shut. If you're using a curling iron, open the clamp to insert the hair ends of the section into the clamp.

4. Slowly slide the flat iron through your hair from scalp to hair ends. If curling, gently roll the curling iron under or over-handed until reaching a position close to the scalp. Slip a comb between the scalp and curling iron to protect your scalp from the heat. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds and gently unroll the curling iron by squeezing the clamp.

5. Proceed around the head around the head with your straightening or curling task. Finger-comb your hair to help retain the curls, or use the comb to smooth your straightened hair. Apply light hairspray or styling spritz to maintain your hairstyle.

Tips & Warnings

• Hair irons are an electrical appliance that present a burn hazard. Never touch the barrel or plates of a heated hair appliance. Always unplug the hair iron when not in use. Never operate an electrical hair iron near water. If any hair appliance falls into water, unplug it immediately.