Using heat is very effective for styling your hair to your liking. Unfortunately, however, the hairdryer, the straightener and the curling iron can stress and weaken them, unless you have certain precautions. By properly styling and taking preventative measures to keep your hair healthy, you can achieve the style you want with little damage.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Style Hair with an Electric Tool
Step 1. Choose a good quality straightener or curling iron
The material it is made of can substantially affect the hair. The cheaper tools are often produced with a type of metal that prevents them from reaching a homogeneous temperature, with the risk of burning the hair. Choose a better quality soleplate or iron made from one of the following materials:
- Ceramic;
- Tourmaline;
- Titanium.
Step 2. To minimize damage, choose a device that is the right size for your hair type
Generally speaking, a 3cm wand iron is the most versatile for medium length or thickness hair.
- If you have short hair, choose a narrower wand iron.
- If you have extra thick or long hair, opt for a thicker wand. This will also speed up the time required for styling.
- If you want to get tight curls, use a curling iron with a smaller wand. If you want to get soft waves, choose one with a chunky wand.
Step 3. Before using a power tool, apply a thermal protector
Buy a product that contains both humectants (such as panthenol and propylene glycol) and silicones (such as amodimethicone and dimethicone). Together, these ingredients can maintain proper hydration and have an insulating effect. Distribute the heat protector over the lengths before styling.
- If you have fine or thin hair, choose a heat protector spray.
- If you have thick or thick hair, choose a heat protector in oil, cream or lotion.
Step 4. Dry your hair well to a minimum
Set the hair dryer on the lowest temperature. Make sure your hair is completely dry before straightening or curling it.
If the hair is thick, you need to divide it into strands. Start by breaking them down into 4 parts. If the sections are still large, divide them further
Step 5. Adjust the temperature according to the thickness of the hair
To avoid damaging them, set the temperature to low considering the thickness of your hair. If possible, choose a device with digital temperature control, so that you can adjust it more specifically than the classic generic subdivision (ie "low", "medium" and "high").
- Temperatures between 80 and 200 ° C work for most hair.
- Start with a temperature of 80 ° C and gradually increase it in case your hair is not straightening or curling in the way you prefer. If you have thick, thick or stubborn hair and you set the straightener to a minimum, you will likely need to go through it more than once. If you are using a curling iron at an excessively low temperature for the texture of your hair, you will likely need to leave the wand on for more than 3 or 5 seconds to make sure you get the curl you want.
- Avoid adjusting the device to a temperature that exceeds 200 ° C.
- The larger irons often have frets that allow you to adjust the temperature. If yours doesn't offer this feature, check your manual to learn how to set it up.
Step 6. Style a small section at a time
To minimize damage, it is good to curl or smooth your hair gradually. Dividing them into small sections allows you to reduce contact with the heat source. In principle, you should never leave the device in contact with your hair for more than 3 or 5 seconds.
Step 7. Straighten or curl each strand just once
Many think that it is necessary to pass the curling iron or the straightener several times. However, this is not the correct method, as it can have harmful results. If you set the device to the correct temperature and divide your hair into small sections, only one stroke per section should be enough.
Method 2 of 2: Maintain Healthy Hair Overall
Step 1. Take a break from straighteners and curlers at least once a week
One of the most effective ways to protect your hair from heat damage is to take a few days' break from hairdryers, straighteners, and irons. Let them air dry at least once a week to let them rest.
Using a power tool every day is harmful. If you use it 1 or 2 times during the week, look for alternatives to minimize the damage, such as curlers
Step 2. Get a nourishing treatment at least once a week
Electric styling tools dehydrate your hair. Dryness can predispose them to more damage. Minimize the negative effects of these tools by using a nourishing product once a week.
- Apply a nourishing conditioner after shampooing. Leave it on for 5 to 30 minutes (follow the instructions on the package) and rinse with cold water. Some products can be left on overnight.
- If you tend to suffer from split ends or broken hair, opt for a leave-in conditioner. Read the instructions on the package. Some products should be applied to damp hair, others to dry hair.
Step 3. Get advice from a hairdresser
If you're not sure which tools, products, or techniques to use, make an appointment at the hairdresser. A professional can give you suggestions on the right products to buy and the best techniques for your hair type.
