How to Care for Your Hair When Flat Ironing: Tips for Healthy, Shiny Hair

Hair straightening is one of the most popular techniques for achieving a sleek, straight style, but when done incorrectly or without proper care, it can damage your hair. The extreme heat from flat irons can damage the texture, dry out hair, and, in some cases, cause dreaded breakage. Don't worry, with proper care, you can continue enjoying straight hair without sacrificing its health. Here are some practical tips for caring for your hair while flat ironing.

1. Prepare Your Hair Before Straightening It

The first step to keeping your hair healthy is proper preparation. Before using the flat iron, make sure your hair is completely dry. Wet or damp hair is much more vulnerable to heat damage, so it's always important to dry it thoroughly.

Recommended products :

• Heat protectant : Never forget to apply a quality heat protectant. This product creates a protective layer that minimizes heat damage, protecting the hair fiber.
• Nourishing oils and serums : Lightweight oils like argan oil or vitamin E serum help hydrate hair and reduce frizz. Apply a small amount to the ends to keep them smooth and prevent split ends.

2. Adjust the Iron Temperature

Not all hair is the same, so there's no universal temperature for flat ironing. It's important to know your hair type and adjust the flat iron's temperature accordingly.

• Fine or damaged hair : Use a lower temperature, between 150°C and 170°C, to avoid unnecessary damage.
• Thick or curly hair : You can increase the temperature between 180°C and 200°C, as your hair can tolerate more heat.

Remember, extreme heat can damage your hair's structure if not properly controlled. It's better to flat iron multiple times at a low temperature than once at a high temperature.

3. Don't Straighten Your Hair Every Day

It's tempting to use a flat iron every day to keep your hair looking its best, but doing so can damage the hair fiber over time. Give your hair time to rest between flat irons and opt for alternative styles that don't require as much heat, such as natural waves or a looser hairstyle.

If you need a straight style, try to straighten it only two or three times a week to maintain the health of your hair.

4. Use High Quality Irons

The quality of the flat iron you use can make a big difference in the health of your hair. Look for flat irons with ceramic or titanium plates, as they distribute heat more evenly and reduce the risk of hair damage.

If you can, opt for a flat iron with temperature control so you can adjust it to suit your hair's needs. It's also recommended that the plates be made of a material that doesn't have coatings that can deteriorate quickly.

5. Divide your hair into small sections

When flat ironing your hair, it's important to section it to ensure each strand receives heat evenly. If you pass the flat iron all over your hair at once without sectioning it, you'll likely end up with some sections that won't straighten properly, and you'll need to go over it more than once, which increases damage.

Divide your hair into at least 4 large sections, and as you progress, divide the sections further if necessary.

6. Keep the Plank Moving

Avoid leaving the flat iron in one place on your hair for too long, as this can cause burns and damage the hair cuticle. Use slow, steady movements, sliding the flat iron from the roots to the ends.

If your hair is thicker, don't be afraid to do two passes, but always move the iron from top to bottom gently.

7. Moisturize your hair regularly

Constant heat can dry out your hair, so be sure to keep it moisturized. Do weekly hair treatments to nourish and hydrate your hair, such as hydrating masks, oils, or even keratin treatments.

Hydration is key to maintaining the softness, shine, and elasticity of your hair.

8. Finish with a Touch of Shine

After flat-ironing your hair, use a light serum or oil to give it extra shine and softness. This also helps seal in moisture and protect your hair from dryness.

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