Straightening curly hair can be done a few different ways depending on your hair type, desired results, and how much time you want to spend. Here are the main methods:
1. Flat Iron (Most Common)
What you need:
- Heat protectant spray
- Blow dryer (optional)
- Flat iron
Steps:
1. Start with clean, dry hair
Flat ironing dirty or damp hair = frizz and breakage.
Wash and condition your hair, ideally with smoothing products.
Towel dry, then blow dry your hair 100%—flat ironing wet hair can literally sizzle and fry it.
2. Apply heat protectant
This is your hair’s armor.
Spray or apply a heat protectant evenly throughout your hair.
Focus on your mid-lengths and ends, where hair is the most fragile.
3. Section your hair
Don’t just grab big chunks.
Divide your hair into small, manageable sections—about 1 to 2 inches wide.
Clip the rest up and out of the way. Work from the bottom layers up.
4. Set the right temperature
Not all hair types need max heat.
Fine or damaged hair: 250–300°F (120–150°C)
Normal hair: 300–375°F (150–190°C)
Thick or coarse hair: 375–450°F (190–230°C)
Hotter isn't always better—too much heat just burns.
5. Smooth and glide
Now you’re ready to go.
Clamp the flat iron close to your roots (not touching your scalp) and slowly glide down to the ends.
One slow, smooth pass is better than going over the same spot five times.
If you need to, do a second pass, but keep it minimal.
6. Repeat by sections
Move through each section, one at a time.
Comb each section before you straighten for a sleeker finish.
You can also use the “chase method” (run a fine-tooth comb in front of the flat iron) for extra smoothness.
7. Finish and protect
You’re almost done!
Add a small drop of serum or light oil to the ends to add shine and lock in moisture.
Don’t touch your hair too much—this can cause frizz.
Bonus tips:
Let your flat iron fully heat up before using it.
Clean your flat iron plates regularly to remove product buildup.
Don’t flat iron every day—give your hair a break when you can.
2. Blow Drying with a Round Brush
What you need:
- Heat protectant
- Blow dryer with concentrator nozzle
- Round brush
Steps:
- Prep hair the same way with shampoo, conditioner, and protectant.
- Use a round brush and pull the hair taut as you blow dry.
- Direct the airflow down the hair shaft to smooth the cuticle.
3. Chemical Straightening (Long-Lasting)
Types:
- Keratin treatment (lasts 2–6 months)
- Japanese straightening (permanent until new hair grows)
- Relaxers (chemical straighteners, usually for very curly hair)
Note: These should be done by professionals to avoid hair damage.
4. Natural Methods (Temporary & Less Effective)
- Hair wrapping (doobie method) overnight
- Large rollers for a smoother finish
- Silk press (for curly/coily hair types using a flat iron + blow dry)
Tips to Avoid Damage:
- Always use heat protectant.
- Don’t straighten hair daily—give it rest days.
- Use deep conditioning treatments regularly.
- Don’t flat iron wet hair (unless it’s a special wet-to-dry model).
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