6 Ways to Straighten Your Hair For Sleek & Shiny Locks

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Look your best with these expert hair straightening tips
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Are you dreaming of sleek, shiny, perfectly straightened hair? Whether you’re using heat tools or a non-heat method (we cover them all below), it’s possible to get beautiful straight hair without the unwanted damage, and we talked to pro hairstylists to get their straightening secrets. Read on for 6 hair straightening methods, from the classics ( flat ironing & blow drying ) to more creative, non-heat methods.

How to Straighten Hair: Top Methods

Beauty & hair care advisor Wyvetta Bowles says there are many effective ways to straighten your hair, including using a flat iron, blow dryer, or even rollers. [1] You can also wrap your hair to straighten it, use the banding method, style it in a twist bun, or use straightening products.

Section 1 of 7:

Straightening Hair With a Flat Iron

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  1. Straightening your hair works best on freshly washed hair (or hair that has been washed in the last day or so). Once your hair is washed, dry it gently with a microfiber towel, spray it with a heat-protectant spray , and then blow-dry it with a hairdryer. This will help to pre-straighten your hair so you have less work to do with the straightening iron.
    • Dry the roots of your hair with the hairdryer first; then work through the lengths of your hair.
    • Master hair stylist Christine George suggests blow-drying your hair upside down to add more volume. [2]
    • Use a paddle brush to work through tangles and hold hair taut as you dry.
    • Applying a heat protectant spray every time you straighten locks in moisture and prevents hair from becoming dry and frazzled. Apply the heat protection spray evenly over dry hair, holding the can about 6 inches away from your head. [3]
    • Don't apply the heat protection spray to your roots, as this can cause them to look greasy.

    Meet the wikiHow Experts

    Wyvetta Bowles is a beauty and hair care advisor who specializes in bridal and special event hair and makeup, hair care maintenance, and hairstyling techniques that lead to less damage.

    Christine George is a master hairstylist with over 23 years of hair styling and coloring experience.

    Noël Reid-Killings is a professional hair stylist with over a decade of experience. Noël specializes in curating and customizing hair solutions for all hair types and textures.

    Michelle Bebbington is a professional hair stylist with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in hair education, coloring, and styling.

    Steven Waldman is a professional hair stylist who uses unexpected sources such as art genres, architecture, and cooking to inspire shape, color, and cuts.

  2. Watermark wikiHow to Straighten Your Hair
    Create the first layer by taking the front sections of your hair and scooping them back with your thumbs to grab all of the hair on the crown of your head. Twist and secure it with a hair tie or butterfly clip. Create the 2nd layer by scooping up the hair that remains above your ears and securing it with a hair tie or clip. The 3rd layer consists of any hair that remains unclipped, which includes the hair at the back of your head, growing around the nape of your neck. [4]
    • Dividing your hair into sections will ensure that you straighten your hair properly, without missing any strands.
    • If you want to straighten thick hair , you can divide your hair into extra layers. If you have very thin or fine hair, you may not need to divide your hair at all, or you can just split it into two sections.
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Straighten Your Hair
    Using the right temperature for your hair will ensure you get the best results and will prevent you from doing unnecessary damage to your hair. The temperature your iron should be set to depends on your hair type: [5]
    • For fine or damaged hair, use a temperature between 200 and 300 °F (93-149 °C).
    • For average hair thickness, use a temperature between 300 and 350 °F (149-177 °C).
    • For very thick, coarse, or frizzy hair, use a temperature of 350 to 400 °F (177-205°C).
  4. 4
    Hold each section taut as you clamp the iron around it and smooth it through. Begin straightening the bottom sections of hair about an inch from the roots, so your hair won’t look too flat. Use one hand to hold the section taut while applying the flat iron with the other hand. Try to run the straightening iron over the hair in one smooth, fluid movement to avoid horizontal lines across your hair.
    • You can also use a wide-tooth comb as you comb through the hair, followed by straightening with a flat iron . This can assist the flat iron in getting each individual strand better.
    • If the hair isn’t completely straight the first time, just pull the straightener through a 2nd time, but avoid straightening the hair more than 3 times on the same section.
    • Stop if you see any steam or your hair starts to sizzle. If this happens, it means that your hair is not fully dry. If it happens, turn off the flat iron and use a hairdryer to dry your hair completely before you resume straightening.
    • When straightening bangs, be sure to pull straight out rather than to the side. This will provide an even distribution of heat, making sure that the hair strands are uniform.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Straighten Your Hair
    Once you have straightened the bottom layer of hair, unclip the next section and begin to straighten it using the same technique as before. The top layer of hair should be the last section of hair you straighten. Once finished, look in a mirror to make sure you didn't miss any sections (including the back). If you spot any waves or kinks, just go over them with the straightener one more time.
    • You can check the back of your hair by standing with your back to a mirror while you hold a second mirror in your hands. You should be able to see the reflection of the back of your head in the hand-held mirror.
  6. Use a finishing product before styling. You can use a silicone-based serum to add shine, or spray your hair with hairspray to hold your hair in place. Avoid adding any mousse or water-based product, as this will dampen the hair and cause it to turn wavy.
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Section 2 of 7:

Straightening Hair Using a Blowdryer

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  1. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you will need to wash your hair before blow-drying. Use a smoothing shampoo and conditioner if your hair is thick or prone to frizz, or go for volumizing if your hair is thin or flat.
    • Only apply conditioner to the ends and mid-lengths of your hair. If you apply it to the roots, your hair will look flat and greasy.
    • George recommends using a wide-toothed comb to work out any tangles while the conditioner is in your hair. [6] The conditioner will make it much easier and will minimize hair breakage.
  2. After shampooing and conditioning, wrap your hair in an absorbent, microfiber towel and leave it for 1 to 2 minutes. Unwrap your hair and use your towel to gently dab or blot your hair to get rid of any excess moisture. With a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush, part and gently comb your hair. Work from the ends upwards, rather than from the roots down, as this will cause less breakage.
    • Don't rub your hair with the towel, as this will cause your hair to break.
    • Remember that you are not trying to dry your hair with the towel; it should still be pretty damp when you're finished towel drying.
    • Defining your part while your hair is still wet will help it stay more naturally after it’s been dried and straightened.
    • If your hair is very knotted, try spraying it with a detangling mist.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Straighten Your Hair
    Add a pea-size amount of serum to your hair midway to the ends and massage it in. Using serum will help to make your hair extra smooth and sleek after drying. [7]
    • Avoid applying hair products to the roots, as they will weigh hair down.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Straighten Your Hair
    Set your hairdryer to a high speed and heat, if possible, and concentrate on drying your roots while using your fingers to lift and separate your hair; avoid using a brush just yet. Continue rough drying your hair until it is about 60-80% dry, but no more.
    • Make sure that the hairdryer is pointing downwards to help keep your hair smooth and frizz-free. It should be blowing hair down from the crown of your head, rather than upwards.
    • Professional hair stylist Steven Waldman says that tension is key when straightening curly hair. “Stretch the hair straight with your fingers as you direct air from your dryer down the hair strands from your scalp to the ends. Once your hair is about 75% dry, switch to a wide, natural bristle paddle brush and finish with polish.” [8]
    • A good hairdryer is essential when you are trying to blow-dry your hair straight. The more power and heat a hairdryer can provide, the easier and faster you can straighten your hair.
    Jen Atkin, Celebrity Hairstylist

    Preserve hair health while blow-drying. "My biggest trick is to use the ‘cool shot’ button. When you’re blow drying your hair, finish each section with a cool shot and a boar bristle brush with that cool air–it helps to get the cuticle to stay calm and smooth."

  5. Split your hair into 3 layers—one at the crown of your head, one at the middle sections, and one at the nape of your neck. Use butterfly clips or hair ties to keep the top two layers out of the way for now. Dividing your hair into sections before you finish blow-drying will help you to focus on straightening one layer of hair at a time. [9]
    • If you have bangs, leave them down and dry them first before you dry the bottom layer. This is because bangs will dry quickly, and they will be harder to straighten once dry.
    • If you want to add volume while you straighten, or add a slight curl or flick to the ends, use a thick round brush. If you want poker-straight locks, a paddle brush is your best option.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Straighten Your Hair
    After unclipping the section you’re drying, take the section of hair between 2 and 4 inches wide and hold it in place with the hairbrush. Once you have completely dried each section of hair, finish it off with a blast of cool air to help set the style and add shine.
    • You also need to make sure that you are directing the air flow downwards—the nozzle of the hairdryer should be pointing towards the ends of the hair as you dry.
    • Start with the bottom layer, followed by the middle layer, and finally the top layer.
    • Once your hair is completely dry, it should look straight and sleek. If it's still a little wavy, you may need to dry it further by using the brush to pull the hair straight.
    • Professional hair stylist Michelle Bebbington says that “a good blowout will give you straight hair and body that will last for days to come.” [10]
  7. To set your style and give your hair a little extra shine and control, apply a pea-sized amount of shine serum or spray to the ends and mid-lengths of your hair. If you're worried about your hair falling flat or losing its shape, mist it with a light layer of hairspray, holding the can about 6 inches away from your head. This will ensure that your hair stays straight all day (or night) long.
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Section 3 of 7:

Straightening Hair With the Wrapping Method

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  1. 1
    Apply a leave-in conditioner or smoothing serum to damp hair. After shampooing and conditioning your hair, towel-dry your hair until it’s damp, not wet. You can even leave it to air dry until it’s slightly damp, if needed. Once you apply the conditioner or serum, divide the hair into sections while smoothing each section using a brush or comb. [11]
    • Thicker hair may take longer to go from wet to damp than thinner hair.
    • Hair stylist Noel Reid-Killings describes the wrapping method as “taking the hair, wrapping it around the head, and letting it air dry. It'll be very straight once you let it air dry; you can use bobby pins to hold it in place.” [12] The wrapping method is one of many ways to straighten hair naturally .
  2. 2
    Divide the crown sections of your hair on either side. Use both hands to pull sections on either side of your crown back by making a circle as you move the hair back. Bring the 2 sides together and hold the hair from the crown. Secure the hair with a slip. For thicker hair, pick up a bigger crown section of hair. [13]
  3. 3
    Brush the front section of your hair over and across from one side to the other. Continue to add hair from the side of your head above your ear to the already flattened hair, so it all lies down flat against your head. In doing so, the hair will wrap around to the back of your head, depending on how long it is. Secure your hair in a few places with clips. Once you secure the front of your hair, keep smoothing your hair around the back of your head in one direction, and secure it with clips every few inches as you go. You may end up with 2 or more layers of flattened and secured hair until you reach the ends, depending on your length. [14]
    • As you flatten your hair down, continue to brush it through to smooth your hair against your head as much as possible. The smoother it is now, the straighter it will be.
    • It doesn’t matter whether you brush your flat against your head from right to left or vice versa.
  4. 4
    Split the crown section into 2 pieces and wrap them one at a time around your head. After splitting the crown hair into 2 sections, twist and clip one section aside. Then, wrap the other section as you did with the rest of your hair, smoothing it out with a brush so it lies flat against your head (in the same direction you wrapped your hair already). Unclip the 2nd section and wrap it in the opposite direction from the one you used for your 1st crown section. Secure it all once completed. [15]
    • As you wrap your crown sections, simply take out and re-secure the hair clips you’ve already used; there’s no need to add more clips unless your hair is slipping.
    • Your hair should resemble a beehive or turban when you’re finished.
    • If you clipped a larger section of hair from your crown, you can clip the crown again as you did in step 1. Then, wrap the crown hair once, followed by the 2nd section you created.
  5. 5
    Wrap your head in a scarf or wig cap. Fold a scarf or head wrap into a triangle, place it over your head just past your hairline, cross the ends around the back, and bring them together at the center of your forehead. Tie the ends together so the scarf is snug, but not too tight on your head. Pull any excess fabric down in the back to make sure it’s flat against your head. Remove the clips and replace them over the scarf to secure them. [16]
    • Using a wrap helps minimize frizz or breakage in your hair while maintaining straight hair as it dries.
    • Using duckbill clips or flat clips is preferable to bobby pins, which can leave crimps in your hair.
  6. 6
    Allow your hair to dry before removing the wrap and/or pins. Leave the wrap on for a few hours or overnight, depending on your hair texture and how straight you’d like your hair to be. Once your hair is dry, remove the wrap and clips. Gently brush or comb your hair to remove any kinks or bumps that may remain. Style your hair as usual. [17]
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Section 4 of 7:

Straightening Hair Using Rollers

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  1. 1
    Divide damp hair into sections. When dividing hair into sections, ensure that each section is equal to or less than the width of whatever size roller you’re using. Twist and fasten each divided section of hair with a clip. For evenly damp hair, use a towel on wet hair or dampen with a spray bottle if your hair is dry. [18]
    • You can also straighten your hair using rollers when it’s dry. Just blow-dry your hair first, making sure it’s completely dry before putting it in the rollers.
  2. 2
    Wrap the pre-divided sections of hair onto your rollers . Use a single roller for each section of hair. Remember, each section of hair should be no wider than the width of your rollers. For damp hair, comb each section upward and wrap it flat against the roller. Secure each roller using clips, pins, or bands, especially near the roots of the hair. Repeat until all sections of your hair are wrapped around the rollers. [19]
    • For blow-dried hair, wrap sections of hair around the roller immediately after blow-drying your hair, so it sets properly.
    • For smooth hair, use even tension throughout while wrapping the hair around the rollers.
    • Use a heat protectant spray or serum if using rollers on blow-dried hair.
  3. 3
    Allow your hair to air dry completely (or use a hooded dryer). For damp hair, let your hair air dry; if using rollers on blow-dried hair, consider using a hooded dryer so your hair dries and the rollers dry completely. [20]
  4. 4
    Carefully remove the rollers and brush or comb your hair. Take each roller out slowly, starting from the ends and unwrapping it to the roots. Then, gently brush or comb your hair to remove any kinks or bumps. Style your hair as usual. [21]
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Section 5 of 7:

Straightening Hair With the Banding Method

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  1. 1
    Divide clean, damp hair into sections. The number of sections you create is directly affected by how long your hair is and the size of your hair bands. Before starting, you can spray water onto your hair if needed and apply a lightweight oil to lock in moisture. [22]
    • The banding method straightens and stretches hair without heat to help elongate the strands.
  2. 2
    Wrap elastic bands around each section of hair, from the roots to the ends. Wrap an elastic band around a section of hair starting at the roots. You can spread out the bands as you wrap them so they form an “x” shape, so the bands cover a larger area of hair. Then, continue to add more elastic bands around the sectioned hair down to the ends. Be sure to leave an inch or 2 between each elastic band. Repeat with the remaining sections of hair. Wrap each band around the hair section enough times that it’s secured, but avoid wrapping it too many times, which can cause discomfort or breakage. [23]
    • Make sure that the bands are not too tight to avoid hair breakage or discomfort. They should be tight enough to offer an even amount of tension throughout your hair.
  3. 3
    Allow the hair to dry for several hours (or overnight). Leaving the elastic bands in your hair for an extended period of time allows the hair to remain in the stretched position as it dries. This will help your hair straighten out more. [24]
  4. 4
    Carefully remove the elastic bands from your hair. Starting at the ends, gently remove each elastic band from the hair until reaching the roots. Gently brush or comb your hair to remove any remaining bumps and style as usual. [25]
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Section 6 of 7:

Straightening Hair by Styling With a Twist Bun

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  1. 1
    Bend forward and gather damp or dry hair into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. The height of your ponytail may depend on your hair length or how much of your hair you’re looking to smooth out. [26]
    • Twisting the hair into a bun can temporarily straighten or smooth your hair and can help maintain a straightened look for those with hair that is somewhat straight or slightly wavy.
  2. 2
    Twist the ponytail into a bun around the base and secure it. Twist the ponytail tightly until the hair is completely wrapped, from the base of the ponytail to the ends of the hair. Secure the twisted bun at the ends with elastic bands or an alligator clip so it stays in place. Your hair ends may end up with loose curls unless you tuck them in tightly beneath your bun without twisting them any further. Be sure to twist the bun in the direction of your natural curl. [27]
  3. 3
    Leave the twisted bun in for several hours (or overnight). Leaving the bun secured in place will allow your hair to dry in the stretched-out position. [28]
  4. 4
    Gently release the bun by unwrapping it slowly. Remove any elastic bands or pins from the bun. Then, carefully untwist the bun until you’re left with the original ponytail. Remove the elastic band from the ponytail and brush or comb your hair through to remove any knots or bumps. Style your hair as usual. [29]
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Section 7 of 7:

Maintaining Straight Hair

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  1. A high water content in mousse, for example, will cause your hair to curl back up or frizz immediately. Use a humidity-resistant hairspray if you live in a humid area. Your hair will be prone to frizz due to the added moisture in the air. [30]
  2. Rain will undo all your hard work and leave you with a frizzy mess. Also, remember to carry a headband with you in the summer to keep the perspiration from your bangs. If you are jogging or walking, consider putting your hair up in a ponytail.
    • If it's rainy or very humid outside, try not to walk or be outside for too long, or else the humidity will cause your hair to frizz.
  3. 3
    Use an oil and a straightening balm if you have naturally curly hair. After shampooing and conditioning, apply a pea-sized amount of oil and/or straightening balm to help straighten curly hair .
  4. These methods won’t straighten your hair for good , but don't worry—all you have to do is repeat the straightening process. Avoid straightening your hair too much, as it will cause your hair to become dry and damaged. Try to save the straight look for special occasions when possible.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How do I get rid of frizzy hair?
    Christine George
    Master Hair Stylist & Colorist
    Christine George is a Master Hairstylist, Colorist, and Owner of Luxe Parlour, a premier boutique salon based in the Los Angeles, California area. Christine has over 23 years of hair styling and coloring experience. She specializes in customized haircuts, premium color services, balayage expertise, classic highlights, and color correction. She received her cosmetology degree from the Newberry School of Beauty.
    Christine George
    Master Hair Stylist & Colorist
    Expert Answer
    I'd suggest using hydrating shampoos and conditioners. Try pairing that with some oil, such as argan oil, to help nourish the hair even more. If you use heat to style your hair, add on a blow dry cream. Refrain from heat styling when you can, though, as heat and over styling can damage your hair. There are things that you can do in a salon as well. A keratin treatment, for example, can be a good option if you have super frizzy hair that you can't seem to manage or control.
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    Not Helpful 11 Helpful 6
  • Question
    Can the hair be straightened by any products like egg?
    Ashley Adams
    Professional Hair Stylist
    Ashley Adams is a Licensed Cosmetologist and Hair Stylist in Illinois. She completed her Cosmetology education at John Amico School of Hair Design in 2016.
    Ashley Adams
    Professional Hair Stylist
    Expert Answer
    Using an egg in your hair will not straighten it. Eggs are used in hair masks to condition and strengthen the hair to prepare the hair for straightening (and other hair services) and keeping it healthy. However, an egg can not straighten your hair.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
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    Not Helpful 7 Helpful 37
  • Question
    I washed my hair last night. Do I have to wash it to straighten it tomorrow?
    Ashley Adams
    Professional Hair Stylist
    Ashley Adams is a Licensed Cosmetologist and Hair Stylist in Illinois. She completed her Cosmetology education at John Amico School of Hair Design in 2016.
    Ashley Adams
    Professional Hair Stylist
    Expert Answer
    No, you don’t have to wash your hair again as long as it is clean and free of hair products. If not, it would be best to have clean hair before straightening it.
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      Tips

      • If you have trouble straightening the back of your hair , ask an adult or friend to help.
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      • Other types of straighteners that can help straighten your hair without damaging it are ionic or wet-to-dry straighteners. Instead of using two heated plates, they act as a blow-dryer, causing less damage and frizz.
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      • Blow drying and straightening your hair on the same day can be extremely drying and damaging. If time allows, ditch the hairdryer and air dry your hair instead.
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      Warnings

      • Always turn off and unplug your straightener after every use.
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      • Don't brush your hair when it's wet because it stretches and breaks the hair. Instead, always use a wide-toothed comb.
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      • Be careful not to burn yourself or your hair. If you do burn your hair, run towards the sink and rinse it with cold water.
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      References

      1. ↑ Wyvetta Bowles. Beauty & Hair Care Advisor. Expert Interview
      2. ↑ Christine George. Master Hair Stylist & Colorist. Expert Interview
      3. ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/05/flat-iron-tips_n_1316212.html
      4. ↑ http://www.totalbeauty.com/content/gallery/flat-iron-tips/p72652/page8#8
      5. ↑ http://www.totalbeauty.com/content/gallery/flat-iron-tips/p72652/page8#3
      6. ↑ Christine George. Master Hair Stylist & Colorist. Expert Interview
      7. ↑ https://cafemom.com/lifestyle/167415-how_to_straighten_your_hair
      8. ↑ Steven Waldman. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      9. ↑ https://cafemom.com/lifestyle/167415-how_to_straighten_your_hair
      1. ↑ Michelle Bebbington. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/B1Bye6ISeIo?si=zq-ksmrdAPxOt9DB&t=66
      3. ↑ Noël Reid-Killings. Celebrity Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/B1Bye6ISeIo?si=ETETRHqk5U-0LQCf&t=73
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/B1Bye6ISeIo?si=R_NYRdyfiMVNDfYP&t=102
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/B1Bye6ISeIo?si=XiGt9XIJDvrChmIv&t=216
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/B1Bye6ISeIo?si=UsvFU5UJhjxG_Tj1&t=321
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/B1Bye6ISeIo?si=nSsDbWa-Z5_jKOnP&t=407
      9. ↑ https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/how-to-use-hair-rollers
      10. ↑ https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/how-to-use-hair-rollers
      11. ↑ https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/how-to-use-hair-rollers
      12. ↑ https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/how-to-use-hair-rollers
      13. ↑ https://youtu.be/-iGokBKMp0w?si=P9ye1eqVUqb129fr&t=97
      14. ↑ https://youtu.be/-iGokBKMp0w?si=GS3AMNsAC30SwXFd&t=108
      15. ↑ https://youtu.be/-iGokBKMp0w?si=CtBEqhF9MU_CmU6F&t=168
      16. ↑ https://youtu.be/-iGokBKMp0w?si=CtBEqhF9MU_CmU6F&t=168
      17. ↑ https://youtu.be/fgZBigUvgrc?si=Z5yG53E5PNC4N2fH&t=79
      18. ↑ https://youtu.be/fgZBigUvgrc?si=H9qVHt2BYvEN0PYV&t=89
      19. ↑ https://youtu.be/fgZBigUvgrc?si=BmgVC87x7UGwx0LL&t=118
      20. ↑ https://youtu.be/fgZBigUvgrc?si=cgekhrV3kE9i3fZN&t=128
      21. ↑ https://www.buzzfeed.com/gyanyankovich/rainy-day-hair

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To straighten your hair with a flat iron, first wait until it’s completely dry since straightening wet hair can damage it. Apply a thermal protectant to your hair to protect it from the heat even more. Then, plug in your flat iron and wait for it to heat up. Grab a ½-inch (1 ¼-cm) section of your hair, and run the flat iron from the roots to the end. Avoid straightening sections larger than this since you’ll need to go over them more with the flat iron, which can lead to more heat damage. After you straighten one section, continue straightening ½-inch (1 ¼-cm) sections of your hair until you’ve gone over all of it. For more tips from our Cosmetologist co-author, including how to straighten your hair without a flat iron, read on!

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