Using a Flat Iron Without Damaging Your Hair

A lot of people use heat to style their hair. Styling tools that use heat are quite effective at keeping hair just how you want it without too much hassle.

A flat iron is a wonderfully versatile tool. It can be used to add shine, flatten and smooth hair, help tame freeze, and even curl hair. It is perfect for those with long hair or short hair and can by used with many different styles.

There is a risk to using a flat iron, however. As with any heat styling tool, a flat iron can damage and dry out your hair, leaving it unhealthy and hard to manage. You must take extra care when using a flat iron to avoid this problem.

What can you do to prevent damage caused by using a flat iron? Take these steps to use a flat iron safely:

• One of the most important precautions you can take when flat-ironing your hair is to use the proper products. A heat protection spray should be used whenever you use a flat iron on your hair. Spray as directed your hair before using heat on it to avoid damage.
• In the shower, properly moisturize your locks with a good conditioner. This helps keep moisture in your hair so it will have a smaller chance of becoming dried out with the use of a flat iron.
• Once a week or so, try a deep conditioning treatment on your hair.
• When flat-ironing, do not leave the iron on your hair too long. Go slowly over the hair, but do not stop on any section for more than just a few seconds. It is best to keep the flat iron moving over the hair instead of stopping in one spot. You don't want to over-dry the hair because this will damage it.
• Select a high quality flat iron. Although you don't have to pay a lot to get a decent styling tool, keep in mind that paying a little more for something better could help prevent damage. Ceramic flat irons are typically best.
• Although you can find flat irons that can handle wet hair, it is best to style your hair when it is just damp. The wetter the hair is, the more prone it is to breakage.
• Once in a while, you may want to give your hair a break from the heat of the flat iron and either pull it back or try a different style technique.

Although flat irons can do a lot of harm to hair, you can maintain healthy tresses if you follow the proper steps.