Flat irons can create a wide array of styles. From curls to crimps, bevels and smooth and sleek. Nothing parallels to their ability to get hair straight, but if used incorrectly, have can become flat, dry and even dull. Andrew Caruthers, Director of Education for Sam Villa, offers 4 tips for smoothing hair with polish and movement.
“Knowing the do’s and don’ts of using a flat iron properly can deliver beautiful shiny hair that looks healthy and natural versus the broomstick straight hair of the 90’s,” says Carruthers.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Flat Ironing
1. Product – There are many products that have too much moisture, which causes hair to actually cook, leaving hair sticky and damaged. This is why it is important to use a product specifically designed for use with thermal tools that has the correct amount of moisture, protects hair from heat and adds shine and smoothness. Try Redken iron shape 11 thermal holding spray.
2. Size of the Section – If sections are too large, only the outside edges of the section get heated and the inside hair is not affected. It requires multiple passes over the same section to straighten all the hair, which causes damage on the outer edges that are getting overheated. Use smaller sections that require only one pass with the iron, it will speed up the entire process.
3. Angle of Section – Horizontal sections tend to leave hair very flat and dated looking. Use diagonal sections, after the hair falls it will be smooth and polished, yet still have movement and bend.
4. Feeding the Iron – Flat irons seal hair, they don’t straighten it. Using a comb to smooth hair before it’s ironed is what creates the flat surface. Use the fine teeth of a Sam Villa Signature Series Short Cutting Comb to straighten and feed hair into a Sam Villa Signature Series Sleekr Professional Flat Iron 1" to ensure that the iron locks in a smooth polished finish.
DON’T get caught with flat dull hair; DO use the right product, section and comb for super smooth healthy hair with lots of movement.
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