A wide flat iron can be a versatile tool for creating beautiful curls, even though it may seem more commonly associated with straightening. With the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can achieve a variety of curl styles using a wide flat iron.Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it.
Preparing the Hair
Wash and Condition
Start by washing your hair with a shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair type. If your hair is dry, use a moisturizing formula to add hydration. For oily hair, a clarifying shampoo can help remove excess oil. After washing, gently towel dry your hair to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing the hair vigorously as it can cause frizz and damage the hair cuticles.
Apply Heat Protectant
Before using the wide flat iron, it’s essential to apply a heat protectant product. This helps protect your hair from the heat damage that can occur during the curling process. Spray the heat protectant evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the ends and the mid-lengths. Make sure to cover all the strands thoroughly. This step is crucial as it can help maintain the health and integrity of your hair.
Sectioning the Hair
Divide your hair into sections to make the curling process more manageable. You can start by creating a horizontal part at the nape of the neck. Clip the top section of the hair up and out of the way. Then, divide the bottom section into smaller sub-sections. For shorter hair, you may need around 3 – 4 sub-sections, while for longer hair, you may need more. Use clips to hold each sub-section separately. This way, you can work on one section at a time and ensure that the curls are evenly formed.
Setting Up the Wide Flat Iron
Temperature Selection
Most wide flat irons have adjustable temperature settings. The appropriate temperature depends on your hair type. For fine or damaged hair, it’s best to start with a lower temperature, around 250 – 300°F (121 – 149°C). Medium-thick hair can usually handle a temperature of 300 – 350°F (149 – 177°C). If you have thick and coarse hair, you can gradually increase the temperature to up to 375 – 400°F (191 – 204°C). However, be careful not to set the temperature too high as it can cause excessive heat damage and lead to dry and brittle hair. Test the temperature on a small section of hair first if you’re unsure.
Plate Preparation
Check the plates of the wide flat iron to ensure they are clean and free from any product residue. You can wipe the plates with a soft, damp cloth if needed. Clean plates will provide better contact with the hair and ensure more even heat distribution, resulting in better curls. Additionally, make sure the flat iron is fully heated up to the selected temperature before starting to curl the hair.
Curling Technique
Taking a Section of Hair
Take a small section of hair from one of the sub-sections. The width of the section will depend on the size of the curls you want and the length of your hair. For larger, looser curls, you can take a wider section, around 1.5 – 2 inches. For tighter curls, use a narrower section, about 1 – 1.5 inches. Hold the section of hair at the ends.
Closing the Flat Iron
With the wide flat iron, close the plates around the hair section, starting from the ends. Make sure to hold the flat iron at a slight angle, usually around 45 degrees. This angle helps create a more natural-looking curl. Slowly glide the flat iron up the hair shaft, keeping a gentle tension on the hair. As you reach the mid-lengths or a little higher, depending on the length of your hair and the desired curl placement, start to rotate the flat iron. You can rotate it either inward towards your face (for a more classic curl look) or outward (for a more modern, beachy wave look).
Holding and Releasing
Hold the flat iron in the rotated position for a few seconds. The exact time will depend on your hair type and the temperature setting. Generally, for fine hair, 5 – 8 seconds may be sufficient, while for thicker hair, you may need to hold it for 8 – 12 seconds.
After the desired time has passed, carefully release the flat iron and let the curl fall naturally. Do not pull or tug on the curl as it can cause it to lose its shape.
Repeating the Process
Repeat the curling process for each section of hair, working your way through all the sub-sections. Try to maintain a consistent tension and angle when using the flat iron to ensure that the curls are uniform. You can alternate the direction of the curls (inward and outward) for a more natural and voluminous look. For example, curl one section inward and the next section outward. If you want more defined curls, you can also wrap the hair around the flat iron multiple times before rotating and holding.
Finishing Touches
Separating and Fluffing the Curls
Once you’ve curled all the hair, let the curls cool for a few minutes. This helps set the shape and makes the curls last longer.
Then, using your fingers or a wide-toothed comb, gently separate the curls. This gives them a more natural and less rigid look. You can also fluff the curls at the roots a bit to add volume. Be careful not to comb through the curls too much as it can cause them to lose their definition.
Applying Styling Product
To hold the curls in place and add extra shine, you can apply a light hairspray or a styling serum. If you use a hairspray, hold the spray bottle about 6 – 8 inches away from your hair and spray evenly. A styling serum can add shine and help smooth out any flyaways. Apply a few drops of serum to your palms and then run your hands over the curls. You can also use a texturizing spray for a more relaxed, beachy look. This spray adds texture and volume to the curls without making them look stiff.
Styling and Adjusting
Finally, you can style the curls further as desired. You can pull some curls forward to frame your face or tuck some behind your ears for a more sophisticated look. If there are any areas where the curls don’t look quite right or need a little touch-up, you can use the wide flat iron again to re-curl those sections briefly. Just be careful not to overheat the hair. You can also add accessories such as hair clips or headbands to enhance the overall style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, curling with a wide flat iron can be a great way to achieve beautiful and stylish curls. By following the proper steps of preparing the hair, setting up the flat iron correctly, using the right curling technique, and adding the finishing touches, you can create a variety of curl styles that suit your personal preference and any occasion. Remember to take care of your hair by using heat protectant products and not overusing heat styling tools to keep your hair healthy and looking its best. With practice, you’ll be able to master the art of curling with a wide flat iron and enjoy the versatility it offers for creating different hairstyles.