The hair straightener has now become a tool for daily use, indispensable for achieving perfectly groomed hair that looks top-tier, not only in the salon but also at home. Various models are available on the market, distinguished by the technology used, as well as the ability to straighten, style, and shape the hair, creating defined waves and curls. However, excessive heat and overuse of the straightener can irreparably damage hair and weaken the hair fiber, causing dryness and cuticle damage.
Modern and cutting-edge straighteners help us by offering models that minimize this type of problem, providing different options depending on hair type and the desired style. But how can we use a straightener without ruining our hair? Let's look at the precautions to take every time you use a straightener to keep your hair healthy and beautiful, while also eliminating static electricity and that dreaded frizz.
1. Buy a quality straightener
When choosing to buy a hair straightener, focus on a good quality model because, as we know, the more efficient the straightener, the better its performance. This does not mean you have to spend a fortune to buy a good product; there are many new-generation straighteners on the market with an excellent price-quality ratio. So, don't skimp too much on the price: making a good investment in a straightener today will pay off for the health of your hair in the future.
Look for ceramic straighteners with ionic technology or steam straighteners, which guarantee higher protection for the hair, drastically reducing the risk of damage without drying it out or removing moisture. Another factor to pay attention to before buying a straightener is to consider your hair: every hair type needs a specific straightener, so buy a model that guarantees the best results for you and your hair.
2. Reduce daily use
Avoid subjecting your hair to the stress of a straightener every day by finding alternative methods to straighten and style your locks. Instead, choose smoothing products, such as Argan oil masks to apply to damp hair for soft, silky-straight results, or hair oils enriched with Monoi oil, for example, which are ideal for making your hair naturally more elastic and manageable without resorting to using a straightening iron.
3. Dry hair perfectly before using the straightener
To achieve an impeccable look, a good rule is to dry your hair perfectly before using the straightener. Using a straightener on damp hair is not only ineffective, it is strongly discouraged: the thermal shock will risk burning and damaging it more easily. After the final rinse, dry and blot your hair well with a towel and proceed with blow-drying using a brush, so as to give the hair its initial shape and reduce the need for the straightener.
4. Use heat protectant products
To protect your hair from the damage caused by the heat of the straightener, always use a highly moisturizing heat protectant for hair on the lengths and ends before styling. Various types of thermal protection products exist on the market, including protective sprays, dry oils, and creams that create a protective film on the hair, preserving it from excessive heat. Heat protectants usually have a very light formulation, almost always keratin-based, which doesn't grease or weigh down the hair, leaving it extremely smooth and shiny.
5. Don't start straightening from the roots; work on the lengths
When you want to straighten your hair, avoid getting too close to the roots to avoid the risk of damaging the scalp. Instead, work on the lengths and ends; this way, you will prevent any burns to your hair and skin, achieving more than satisfactory results. If you use steam straighteners, the danger of burns is even higher, as it is easy to burn yourself with the hot steam escaping from the device if you are not careful.
6. Pass the straightener slowly and no more than twice per section
Subjecting hair to excessive temperatures, as explained in the paragraphs above, can lead to irreparable damage. For this reason, it is recommended to pass the straightener slowly and steadily and, above all, no more than twice on the same section (a very dangerous procedure for the health of our hair). The latest technology straighteners are designed to heat up very quickly, ensuring professional results in a single pass. Furthermore, the materials used for the heating surface coating, such as ceramic or tourmaline, are particularly smooth and allow the straightener to glide more quickly over the lengths without breaking the hair, preserving its natural beauty.
7. Adjust the temperature according to your hair type
To avoid burning and irreparably damaging your hair, always check the temperature of the straightener when in use and adjust it based on your hair type. Most latest-generation straighteners are equipped with a temperature regulator, allowing you to choose the temperature most suitable for your specific hair.
If you have thin, fragile, or damaged hair, use the straightener at a temperature between 120°C and 160°C; if your hair is normal or wavy, you can go up to between 160°C and 200°C. In the case of thick, curly, or particularly frizzy hair, it is possible to set higher temperatures, up to 235°C. In any case, try to use the straightener to complete your styling: it may take a little longer, but your hair will thank you for it.
8. Keep the straightener clean and in good condition
The more care and attention you give your straightener, the better it will hold up over time. You should clean it with a damp cloth once a month, wiping the plates well and removing any encrusted dirt with a dry cotton swab. Let it air dry before using it, or dry it with a clean cloth if you want to reuse it immediately. It is highly recommended to store the straightener in a dry place, away from heat sources, so as not to compromise its integrity.
0 comments