Things are heating up around here—and it’s not just the warm summer weather. Even though flat ironing one’s hair is a largely popular technique, many are afraid of the damage the heat will have on their hair. However, the experts at Salon Antoine I Northern VA encourage users to not fear the heat! Using a flat iron doesn’t necessarily result in hair damage. One just needs to know how to correctly prep their hair and use the tool properly.

In anticipation of hot summer weather, Salon Antoine has provided the following tips to assist those looking to maintain a straightened look all summer long:

1. Start with a Fresh SlateBefore using a flat iron, it’s always a good idea to shampoo and deep condition your hair thoroughly before-hand.  The best results are derived when a flat iron is used with clean, freshly washed hair.
2. Apply Product to Your HairAfter completely drying your hair, applying protective product will prevent your hair from being destroyed by the flat iron. Ask your hair stylist which products will best protect your tresses from the heat, and make sure to use it before applying heat. It will prevent your hair from looking frizzled.
3. Tone Back the TemperatureMost people assume that in order to get the best results, one needs to put their flat iron on the highest heat setting. Even though darker hair tends to be coarse, too much exposure to heat can seriously damage one’s locks. Consider putting your flat iron on a low-to-medium heat setting to prevent overheating your hair!
4. Slow and Steady Wins the RaceWhen using the flat iron, it’s always the best idea to divide one’s hair into sections and detangle it with a wide-toothed comb before applying the heat. Clamp the flat iron as close to your root as you can and pull downward in a fluid, smooth motion. Continue doing so at a slow and steady pace will not only ensure that it has the desired effect on your hair, but that you don’t miss any spots as well!
5. Fight The Urge to Touch it UpAlthough women’s natural instinct is to instantly reach for the flat iron the minute their hair starts to kink, Salon Antoine encourages you to fight the urge! Remember, dirty hair and straighteners do not play nicely together. Trying to fix-up your hair could end up causing additional damage and making it look worse.

In addition to the aforementioned tips, Salon Antoine also reminds ladies: the flat iron is not meant for everyday use. Putting a great amount of heat on your hair will cause significant (and in some cases, irreparable) damage over time. If you’re unsure of whether a flat iron is right for your hair, consider talking to your hair stylist about it. As the experts, they’ll be able to tell you not only whether your locks can handle the heat, but how to properly flat iron your hair!

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