How to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron

PDF download Download Article
Get effortless waves and curls with a flat iron
PDF download Download Article

Curling hair with a straightener can create full and bouncy curls that won't look like ringlets. It takes a little practice, but once you get the technique down, you will look amazing and practically red-carpet ready. Follow along to learn how to get the beautiful curls you've always wanted – without using a curling iron.

How do you curl your hair with a flat iron?

  • To create curls, position your flat iron near your scalp, turn it halfway backward, and glide it down the hair.
  • To create flicks, place your flat iron about halfway down the hair section, turn the iron halfway backward, and glide it down the hair.
  • To make flat waves, alternate between half turns going both forward and backward all the way down the hair. Clamp on each hair section as you turn.
Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Prepping Your Hair

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7b\/Curl-Your-Hair-with-a-Straightener-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Curl-Your-Hair-with-a-Straightener-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7b\/Curl-Your-Hair-with-a-Straightener-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/aid23439-v4-728px-Curl-Your-Hair-with-a-Straightener-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Make sure to start with completely clean and dry hair. Wet hair won't curl at all and damp hair won't curl as well. Even if you have one of those magical wet-to-dry hair straighteners, it’s best if you have dry hair. Dirty hair also won’t hold its shape very well, so make sure you’ve washed it in the past 24 hours. [1]
    • If you're blow-drying your hair first, use mousse. The extra volume will keep your hair from looking too flat as you curl it.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    Your straightener should be about 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) in width from plate to handle and have rounded edges, otherwise, it won’t form smooth curls. A flat, paddle-style iron also won't do curls. It’ll be much harder to hold and wrap if you have this kind of straightener and the hair won’t want to stay in the right place.
    • Make sure you’ve got a good quality flat iron . The best work faster, make your hair smoother and do less damage than poor-quality irons. They can have a big impact on things like shine and the consistency of curls. If you need to update your flat iron, you can explore high-quality options here . [2]
    • Heat the iron up to the minimum temperature you need for your hair. If your hair is fine and thin, stick to the low end of the dial at below 300 degrees. Normal hair can be ironed at 300 to 380. You can turn it up to 350 to 400 if your hair tends to be thick, coarse, or frizzy. [3]
    Advertisement
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    Applying a heat protectant or a thermal spray creates a protective barrier between the hair and the iron so that the hair doesn't "frizzle" and burn. Spray all over your hair – no need to comb, as it should mist on and dry quickly. [4]
    • If you have thick hair, spray it on each section before you tackle it. If you just spray it on the top of all your hair, it won’t hit the bottom layers.
    • Also be sure to comb out any tangles in your hair before applying heat.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    You'll have better luck curling your hair if you section it instead of trying to attack the whole mess at once. [5] In general, the thicker your hair the more sections you’ll need to do. Tie up the hair above your ears and put it in a bun on the top of your head. It needs to be out of the way.
    • Start at the bottom of your scalp, close to your ears and neck. Leave down as much hair as you can work with for your first "layer" of curls. A good rule is to work with 1 to 2-inch sections at a time. Pinup the rest. [6]
    • Once that layer is done, you'll unclip your hair and let down another layer. Again, clip up what you can't curl right now. Keep curling in layers.
    5. Advertisement

Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Exploring Different Techniques

PDF download Download Article
  1. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    Flicks and curls are simply two slightly different ways to curl your hair with a flat iron. Try both to see what you like.
    • Flicks : Start halfway down the length of hair, clamp the iron closed and turn it back on itself in a half turn. You should now have created a U-shape with the hair and the iron. Keeping the iron on that half-turn angle, slowly move it down the hair shaft to the end of the hair. The faster you move the iron, the less pronounced the curl/flick will be. If you like big soft flicks, slow down your iron.
    • Curls : Starting fairly close to the scalp (but not close enough to accidentally burn it), clamp the iron closed and turn it back on itself a half turn (the same as with flicks). Run the iron slowly down the hair shaft to the end. Again, the slower you move the iron, the tighter the curl. The faster you move the iron, the gentler the wave. [7]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    With flicks and curls, you just rotated the hair straightener a half turn. If you want more ringlet-y, complete curls, rotate the straightener a full turn, turning the hair over onto itself, sort of creating a loop [8] .
    • Find out what your hair tends to do between the half and the whole turn. You may find that half is enough, or that a three-quarters turn is more ideal for you. What's more, certain days may be half-turn days, and other days will feel like full-turn days. It's up to you!
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    When you rotate your flat iron, whether it’s a half-rotation or a full-rotation, you’re confronted with a decision to make: to turn under and around or over and around. Neither is incorrect, though the curl will reverse with the change in angle. Which looks best on you?
    • Try to be consistent. It's easy to curl one way on one side and then when you switch arms to inadvertently switch directions, too. If you do wind up accidentally doing this, you'll probably be the only one who notices your curls in are different directions. [9]
    • On the other hand, alternating directions can also look great. You just have to be sure to use a consistent pattern throughout.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    Once in a while, it feels high time to bring back 1995. Clamp your flat iron down on your hair and turn it up a half of a turn. Then, clamp it on the next bit of hair and turn it down a half of a turn. This technique will give you flat waves, almost like a finger wave. Repeat this process down the length of your hair.
    • For these flat waves, you're clamping down on every bit of your hair. For curling, you simply curl at the top and slowly drag it down – kind of like curling ribbon on a gift or balloon. [10]
    5. Advertisement
Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Curling Your Hair

PDF download Download Article
  1. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    If your hair doesn’t curl easily or doesn’t hold a curl, put hairspray on sections immediately before you curl them. If you want your curls to hold their shape just how they immediately fall from the straightener, spritz a tiny bit of hairspray on the hair right before you curl it. [11]
    • Be sure to use a non-aerosol working spray for this. Aerosols will create a sticky mess.
    • Don’t use too much hairspray, as well. Then it becomes stiff and crunchy, which is not the look you’re aiming for.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    How much hair you include in each curl is up to you, but here are a few points to keep in mind:
    • Smaller sections make smaller, tighter curls, as well as more of them. If you want a look that's closer to ringlets, keep your sections less than two inches wide.
    • Larger sections result in bouncier, looser curls that look a little more natural. Use sections that are wider than two inches for big curls. [12]
    • Mix it up. You don't have to stick completely to one size or another. For instance, you could do larger curls close to your face and the top of your head to create lift and volume, and tighter, more delicate curls underneath for support. Try it a few different ways and see what you like best.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    The above methods share the same basic principles: turn your hair straightener over itself, and lightly and slowly drag it down your hair. Clamp lightly keeping the hair on the straightener plates – not so hard it's difficult to move and not so lightly that the hair escapes.
    • The variables you can switch up? Where you start on your hair (towards your scalp or towards the ends), how slowly you move the flat iron, and how much you rotate the flat iron. Experiment with these three variables to find the perfect look for you.
    • You don't have to curl all your hair, either. A few strands that are straighter or just wavy can give you a natural, beach-y look.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron
    You can leave your hair as-is when you're finished curling, or you can add an additional touch to wrap up the style you want.
    • For looser curls: Gently run your fingers through your hair and tousle it. You'll get a little more volume, and a relaxed, natural look. [13]
    • For more hold: Put a light mist of hairspray all over your curls to keep them sleek and tight throughout the day. If you live in a really humid area, consider using an anti-humidity spray as well.
    EXPERT TIP

    Gina Almona

    Professional Hair Stylist
    Gina Almona is the Owner of Blo It Out, a New York City-based hair salon. With over 20 years of beauty training experience, Gina's work has been featured in People Magazine, Time Out New York, and Queens Scene. She has been able to keep a fresh perspective in the industry by demonstrating and participating in trade shows and workshops like the International Beauty Show. She received her cosmetology training from the Long Island Beauty School, Astoria.
    Gina Almona
    Professional Hair Stylist

    Alternatives to a flat iron are using a beach waver, curling iron, or curling wand. You can also pin your hair in rings before you go to sleep then take the pins out in the morning for wavy hair.

    5. Advertisement

What Products Should Somebody Use Before They Curl Their Hair?


Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Is there a difference between a straightener and a flat iron?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Nope, there is not a difference. They are two terms for the same thing and work the same way.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 22 Helpful 78
  • Question
    How do you curl your hair with a wand?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Separate out a small section (about the same size as the wand). Wrap your hair from roots to ends, hold for a few seconds, and release.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 19 Helpful 42
  • Question
    How do you curl your hair with a pencil?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    You can wrap damp strands around the pencil in a spiral and allow them to dry. This creates a very tight curl. Make sure use a pencil with a rounded stem for a smooth curl.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 21 Helpful 42
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Read Video Transcript

      Reader Videos

      Tips

      • Don't hold for too long because otherwise your hair may burn and fray.
        Thanks
        Helpful 25 Not Helpful 3
      • It is very important to use heat protectant when using heat-styling products on your hair. It will help your hair against breakage, fight frizz and keeps your hair healthy.
        Thanks
        Helpful 15 Not Helpful 1
      • Ceramic straighteners tend to be better for the hair, as metal plates may damage the hair shaft.
        Thanks
        Helpful 18 Not Helpful 5
      Show More Tips
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Curl Your Hair: 8 Easy & Quick Ways
      How to
      Bring Out the Natural Curl in Your Hair
      A Beginners Guide to Cutting Hair with Clippers
      How to
      Sharpen Hair Clippers
      How to
      Use Hair Thinning Shears
      How to
      Use a Beard Trimmer
      How to
      Use a Banana Clip
      How to
      Flat Iron Hair
      A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Revlon Hair Dryer Brush
      How to
      Curl Hair with Bobby Pins
      How to
      Use a Bobby Pin
      How to
      Clean Hair Combs
      3 Simple Ways to Clean a Dirty Hair Straightener
      How to
      Straighten Your Hair With a Flat Iron
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=eNQIiRGn-A8
      2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=eNQIiRGn-A8
      3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=eNQIiRGn-A8
      4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=eNQIiRGn-A8
      5. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/how-to/a47905/curl-hair-with-straightener/
      6. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/how-to/a47905/curl-hair-with-straightener/
      7. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/how-to/a47905/curl-hair-with-straightener/
      8. ↑ https://www.hairstylingtools.net/how-curl-hair-with-a-flat-irons/
      9. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/how-to/a47905/curl-hair-with-straightener/
      1. ↑ https://www.ghdhair.com/hairstyles/wavy/how-to-hairstyles-flat-waves
      2. ↑ https://hairinstructions.com/how-often-should-you-use-hairspray/
      3. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/how-to/a47905/curl-hair-with-straightener/
      4. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/how-to/a52634/flat-iron-hacks/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To curl your hair with a straightener, first brush your hair to remove any kinks or knots. Then, plug your straightener in and let it heat up. Grab a 1 to 2 inch (2.5 to 5 cm) section of your hair and pull it away from your head. Next, close the straightener’s clamps around the section of hair, about 6 inches (15 cm) from the roots. Twist the straightener 180 degrees in the direction that you want to curl your hair. Wrap the end of your hair around the outside of the straightener in the same direction that you turned it. Now, lightly pull the straightener away from your head. Hold the clamps gently together as you run it all the way through the ends of your hair. Finally, repeat this process on every other section of your hair that you want to curl. For more tips from our Cosmetologist co-author, like how to make waves or full curls in your hair, keep reading the article!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 4,947,995 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Ariana Butera

        May 5, 2016

        "This article helped a lot because I was always really great at straightening my hair but I was not very good at ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement