Flat-Iron Protection

With the rising use of hot tools, coloring, and chemicals, not to mention environmental factors….WE MUST PROTECT OUR HAIR. Flat Irons have become a culprit to many Client concerns. Here’s what you need to know about Flat Iron usage.

1.) What products are you using? This is an important question because using the wrong products or none at all could be making things much worse. Think about it: A flat-iron heats up between 200 and 400 degrees. Your hair is made up of the same thing as your skin. You wouldn’t touch something that hot without protection because it would BURN you. Why are you putting that heat on your hair with out protection?
TRUE STORY: a young girl in highschool, with long hair and highlights, would blow dry and flat-iron her hair everyday with out product. Her stylist had warned her about heat protection for her hair. One day while she was blow drying her hair, a chunk of hair fell off up to her shoulders and it had to be cut into a chin length bob. At that age it was horrifying, at any age it would be devastating. She left that day with a heat protectant spray.

Recommendations: Scruples Heat Protectant Spray, Scruples Hypershine, I.C.O.N. Airshine, I.C.O.N. Serum or India Oil.

2.) Are you adjusting your heat settings? S0me flat irons have adjustable heat settings, others do not. All around your hairline from forehead to nape of neck are your most fragile hairs. These break off the easiest when put in stressful situations (like too much heat). Use your flat-iron before it has a chance to heat up 100% or even cut it off then straighten around your hairline while the plates are still warm. If you can adjust your heat settings turn it down when working in the more sensitive areas of your hair.

3.) It’s all in the GRIP. Most people squeeze the flat-iron plates together thinking that more tension will flatten their hair better. What it is really doing is pulling the hair and possibly creating breakage. Slide your hands from the center of the iron further back. Lets say the last third of the iron itself. This prevents from putting too much pressure and tension on the hair.

4.)Are you sectioning? A flat-iron only has two sides. When you take a large chunk of hair and try to straighten it, the heat is only touching the top and bottom side of that “chunk”. (its like ironing a shirt that’s all folded up) So most people then go over and over and over their hair repeatedly trying to flatten it out and smooth frizzies. If you take the time to section your hair (the thicker your hair the more sections)  it will prevent you from excessive heat in the same areas thus less damage. You will also be happier with the results!

5.) Time savers? DO NOT, i repeat, DO NOT think that a wet to dry flat-iron is better. Most of them will damage your hair creating more frizz, breakage, and even singe the hair. It is very important when using a flat-iron to make sure all the moisture is out of the hair. It should be 100% dry. When you think that your hair is dry, stop blow drying for 30-60 seconds. Feel the hair. If it is cool then there is more moisture that needs to be extracted. If it is warm then your job is done and you can continue the styling process.

6.) The right tool for the job: Flat Irons come in all different brands, sizes, and even designs. Mini flat irons are great for people with curly hair who have those little baby curls around their hairline or for short hair. The most popular size is the 1″. Its small enough to get close to the scalp, but works well even through thick tresses. Most 2″ size flat irons are difficult to get close to the scalp, but would work fine for those looking for a little frizz control in their already straight hair.  When it comes to brands there are so many that it can be overwhelming to know which is right for you. All flat irons should have ceramic plates and a minimum of a one year guarantee. GHD is Salon Mosaic’s personal favorite!(yes we do carry them and order them for our Clients)

For tips on styling, come in for a FREE Consultation or Blow Out Class. We are open Tuesday-Saturday and an appointment can be made by calling 757.427.0200. You can also check out www.facebook.com/salonmosaic , www.2mosaic.com , follow us on Twitter @or Instagram @salonmosaic.

Salon Mosaic (7 Posts)