“For most people, a blowout is generally safer and gentler than a flatiron,” Schlabach says. “A flatiron applies intense, direct heat, pressed on both sides of the hair, which can cause significant damage if overused.” When blowing out your hair (either using a round brush and hair dryer, a multistyler tool, or a hot-air brush), he recommends opting for lowest heat settings.
If you’re after a super-sleek final look, consider using a flatiron as a finishing touch rather than your primary method. Schlabach recommends blowing out your hair first, rather than taking a straightener to your natural curls. Remember to work in small sections, and try to use the “one-pass” method whenever possible.
How frequently can you straighten curly hair?
How often your hair can tolerate straightening depends on a combination of factors, including curl type, density, and porosity. “For most people, straightening occasionally is fine as long as you prep your hair with heat protection and deep condition after,” says Prado. “The key is making sure the hair is properly protected and nourished in between heat-styling sessions.”
That said, when you’re overdoing it, there will be signs. “Heat damage adds up over time, so it’s important to catch the early signs, especially at the ends,” Schlabach says. “Dryness, brittleness, and more breakage usually show up first. If you start seeing that move up from the ends into the mid-lengths, it’s a clear signal to back off.”
By Grace McCarty
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