Curly hair is a fun break from straight styles, but using a curling iron wrong can quickly damage your hair.

So, let's take a look at how we can properly use a curling iron without damaging our precious locks!

Why Using a Curling Iron Damage Hair?

Prolonged Heat on the Same Spot:

When we use a curling iron to curl straight hair, we tend to hold it on the same section for a long time. While we may not notice any immediate changes, the internal structure of the hair is being damaged. This happens because the prolonged heat exposure can weaken hair fibers over time.

High Temperatures Can Alter the Hair's Protein Structure :

Hair is made of protein, and exposure to high heat can denature this protein, leading to hair damage. Once the hair proteins change, they don't regenerate. So, it's crucial to keep the temperature of the curling iron at a safe level to avoid permanent damage to our hair.

Using a Curling Iron on Damp Hair Can Cause Harm :

When we use a curling iron on damp or wet hair, the sudden high heat causes the water in the hair to evaporate rapidly, creating steam. This “steam explosion” can lead to severe damage, making hair brittle and more prone to breakage. Always ensure your hair is completely dry before styling it with heat.

Prep Your Hair Before Using a Curling Iron

Apply Hair Gel to the Ends:

Before using the curling iron, it's a good idea to apply a protective hair gel to the ends of your hair. This acts as a shield against high heat, preventing the ends from becoming dry or split. Additionally, using a gel can help make your curls last longer, giving your style more staying power throughout the day.

Detangle Your Hair First :

It's tempting to just grab a section of tangled hair and wrap it around the curling iron, but doing this will only lead to breakage and leads to hair fall. Instead, always comb through your hair first to ensure it is smooth and tangle-free. This way, the curling iron will glide through your hair more smoothly, reducing the chances of damage.

How to Use a Curling Iron Correctly

Start from the Roots:

When using a curling iron, always begin curling from the roots. Set the temperature of the curling iron below 180°C (350°F), which is hot enough to curl the hair without causing damage. Gradually wrap small sections of hair around the barrel, ensuring that the heat is distributed evenly.

Pay special attention to the ends of your hair as they are more fragile. If you're using a curling iron at higher temperatures, try not to leave the ends on the barrel for too long. A quick twist will be enough to create a soft &bouncy curl.

Apply Hair Oil to the Ends :

Once you've styled your hair, applying a small amount of hair oil to the ends can help seal in moisture, reduce frizz, and keep your hair shiny. This will give your curls a polished look and prevent the ends from appearing dry or frozen.

Important Tips When Using a Curling Iron

Only Use on Dry Hair :

Make sure your hair is completely dry before using a curling iron. Wet hair is more prone to damage when exposed to heat, and curling iron exposure can lead to disastrous results. Blow-dry your hair first, and keep the styling sessions short to minimize heat exposure.

Don't Use It Every day :

Using a curling iron every day, no matter how carefully we do it, will eventually cause damage. Try to reduce the frequency of using the curling iron. Instead of styling your hair daily, aim to curl it every other day, or even less frequently, to allow your hair time to recover and stay healthy.

Conclusion

While a curling iron can be a great tool for achieving gorgeous, bouncy curls, we must use it carefully to prevent damaging our hair. Always prepare your hair beforehand, avoid using high heat, and give your hair the time it needs to recover between styling sessions. With the right approach, you can enjoy stunning curls without compromising your hair health!

Lykkers, how do you like to style your hair? Do you prefer straight hair or love the curls? Let us know your hair care tips in the comments below!