Another benefit? Your style will last longer. “Most people do achieve longer-lasting curls with a straightener and find the finish is smoother compared to a curling iron alone,” says Maine.
The reason, Dion explains is because of the double plates. “It supports both the top and the bottom of the hair section creating better heat penetration and longer-lasting results.” She adds that you’ll experience a shinier, frizz-free finish when using a straightener too.
Curls
For curling with a straightener, the technique is much like curling a ribbon on a present with scissors. Dion says to start by flatironing the first inch or two of the hair to help smooth out any kinks. When you reach slightly above the mid-lengths of each section, she says to “Clamp down and flip the iron 180 degrees in whichever direction you want the curl to lay. Pull the entire strand of hair through to reveal the curl.”
The trick here is to really keep the iron clamped tight on your hair the entire time. Take it from me–it can get a little frustrating, which is why I sometimes used both of my hands to keep the iron completely closed. If you lighten up on your grip, you’ll notice that the curl won’t be as smooth or tight. “You can always go back and make little adjustments until the curls lay just the way you want them,” adds Dion.
Waves
The technique for waves is a bit easier, but the impact is also a little less intense. “Hold the iron horizontally and create C-shaped bends in the hair, alternating directions as you move down the strand,” says Maine. Personally, I find this to be better for shorter hair lengths, as creating uniform waves all the way down lengthy locks can be a challenge.
Textured waves
If you don’t have time to sleep in your braids, you can fast-track that crimped texture by braiding your hair and pressing over it with your flatiron. Just let it cool before unbraiding, advises Dion.
Volume
In need of some lift? Dion says to use the straightener at the roots, then create a half turn giving the hair a bump to give fine or flat hair more body and bounce.
Flipped ends
“Really slick bobs with kicked-out ends are all the rage this season,” says Dion. Simply straighten your hair as you normally would for that supersmooth finish, but when you get to the ends, flip your wrist upward for some flare.
Use heat protectant
Your hair is going to be subjected to so much more heat to create those smoother, lasting styles, so using a heat protectant is an absolute must. You also might want give your hair a break in between styles. “For thin and fine hair, the trick is to keep the heat down to the appropriate level,” says Dion. I use the Oribe Gold Lust Dry Heat Protection Spray because the mist is so fine; it doesn’t leave the hair feeling wet or weighed down.
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