For a lot of us ladies out there, heated styling tools are regularly used to help maintain our look. Whether it be the straightener, blow-dryer or curling wand, it’s not uncommon for these tools to be used on a daily basis.
However, not all of us are using these beloved heat styling tools correctly! From not using the proper techniques to not incorporating the right hair products into our routine, there are a number of heat styling mistakes that you could be making.
To help you avoid these mistakes, we’ve compiled a list of the do’s and don’ts of using your heat styling tools…
Heat protection is a necessity
Skipping heat protection is the most common mistake people make when drying, straightening or curling their hair. These tools pack A LOT of heat, and a heat protection spray or cream is the equivalent of a suit of armor on your locks. Heat protection products help form a barrier against the heat, meaning less damage, healthier hair and a longer lasting style.
Never use straighteners or curlers on damp or wet hair
Ever heard that “sizzle” sound when you’ve attempted to straighten or curl hair that isn’t completely dry? That is the sound of your hair FRYING! Before straightening or curling, make sure your hair is completely dry first – whether you dry it naturally or with a blow-dryer.
If you’re aiming for straight hair, dry with a blow-dryer, pointing the heat down the hair shaft in sections with a round brush. Then, use the flat iron to straighten your hair, concentrating on one section at a time.
Make sure your hair is in good shape to start with
Any heated styling tool can compromise the moisture level and condition of your hair – so starting off with damaged hair will only make things worse.
Take a look at the condition of the ends of your hair – are they fried, frizzy and snapping off easily? If that’s the case, it’s best to have a small trim to take off these dead ends, as continuing to use heated tools on them will only cause further damage.
Use the correct temperature settings on your blow-dryer
If you’re using too much heat when blow-drying your hair, it can strip out the moisture – making it hard to curl or straighten afterwards as it has nothing left to give!
Blow-drying fast and hot actually makes the hair harder to style, and studies have shown that the same results can be achieved using a cold or warm temperature instead of hot.
Only straighten or curl clean hair
The best time to straighten or curl your hair is when it’s freshly shampooed, conditioned and completely dry. Using heated tools on unclean hair runs the risk of pressing built up products, dirt and other nasties into your hair strands.
It’s perfectly fine to use the flat iron or curling wand for touch-ups in between wash days, but try to concentrated the majority of straightening or curling on your hair when it’s fresh.
Wanting extra advice on blow-drying or finding the right heat protectant products? Pop on into the salon or give us a call on 04 471 1020 to have a chat to one of our expert stylists.