Technological advancements have made many things easier and more convenient, and that includes hair styling. Unlike before, when styling tools were bulky and time-consuming, today's innovations allow for quick and easy transformations. One of the most versatile and efficient tools available is the straightener.
While it is primarily used to create sleek, straight hair, it can also help you achieve a variety of effortless hairstyles with minimal effort. Some of the best hairstyles you can achieve with a flat iron include:
1. Barrel Curls
Barrel curls are tight, uniform curls perfect for giving your hair a much fuller and more voluminous appearance. This can be created with a straightener by simply wrapping sections of hair around the iron and holding it for a few seconds. Barrel curls are ideal if you want to achieve polished, defined curls and a glamorous look.
2. Flippy Ends
Flippy ends are achieved by using a straightener to curl the tips of your hair outward. Such a hairstyle is perfect if you want to add movement and lightness to your hair. Flippy ends will look even more flattering if your haircut is in a bob style, as it enhances the shape and adds a playful, youthful vibe.
3. Feathered Bangs
While closely similar to curtain bangs, feathered bangs are longer and do not have a defined centre part. Styling them can be just as tricky as any other type of bangs, but with a hair straightener, the process becomes much easier.
Simply use the straightener to gently curl the ends of your bangs outward, creating that light, airy, feathered look. The straightener helps add volume and texture, giving the bangs a soft, natural flow that frames the face beautifully.
4. Beach Waves
As the name suggests, beach waves are inspired by the natural, textured waves hair often has after a dip in the ocean caused by the salt in the water. However, you do not need to visit the beach or get your hair wet to achieve this style.
Beach waves can easily be created using a flat iron by twisting sections of hair as you glide the iron down. The result is soft, tousled waves that mimic the effortless, sun-kissed look of the ocean. Beach waves work on any hair length and can be customised for a more relaxed or defined wave, making it perfect for a laid-back, beachy vibe at any time.
5. Power Pony
A Power Pony is a sleek, voluminous ponytail that exudes confidence and elegance. Its ability to combine sophistication with practicality makes it ideal for professional settings and casual outings.
You can achieve the Power Pony hairstyle with a flat iron by straightening your hair to create a smooth, sleek base. Once your hair is straightened, gather it into a high ponytail. Use the straightener to curl the ends of the ponytail slightly for a bit of volume and movement, creating a soft bend. The straightener helps add definition to the ponytail, giving it that voluminous, polished look that makes the hairstyle stand out.
6. Pin Curls
Pin curls are a vintage-inspired hairstyle that involves creating tight, defined curls by wrapping sections of hair around your finger or the curling tool before pinning them to the scalp until they are set.
But do you know that pin curls can also be achieved by using a hair straightener? To do this, all you need to do is section your hair into small parts. Then, take a section of hair and wrap it around the hair straightener to form a tight curl.
Once the curl is set in place, carefully pin it to your scalp using a bobby pin or clip. Repeat this step for every section of your hair. Finally, allow the curls to cool completely while pinned, then remove the pins. Using a flat iron for this hairstyle can help smoothen out the curls for a sleek, defined finish.
7. S Waves
S waves are soft, gentle waves that create an "S" shape in the hair, giving it a smooth, flowing texture. This style is perfect for volumising and adding movement without the tight curls or beachy waves. The soft "S"-shaped waves offer a more refined and elegant look, making it ideal for both casual and formal occasions.
By clamping a section of hair in the flat iron and twisting it slightly in one direction, the flat iron helps to form the desired wave. Gliding the iron down the hair while alternating the twist direction as you go will create the signature "S" shape.
How to Keep Heat-Styled Hair Healthy?
Hot tools, like hair straighteners, are indeed lifesavers for styling. They help achieve sleek, smooth, or voluminous looks quickly and efficiently. However, it is important to note that while these tools are effective, they can also lead to significant damage if not used correctly.
Excessive use of these tools can deplete the hair of its natural moisture, making it more brittle, drier, and more prone to breakage. Thankfully, there are ways to protect your hair while still enjoying the benefits of these styling tools.
1. Hydrate your hair
Constant use of hair straighteners can lead to dehydration of your hair. If you regularly use a flat iron, keeping your hair hydrated should be part of your hair care routine. Adding moisturising treatments like deep conditioners or hair masks to your routine can help replenish the moisture your hair loses during styling, helping it stay strong, soft, and healthy.
2. Use heat protectant serums or spray
Before applying any heat, always use a heat protectant spray or hair serum. These hair products work as a protective shield for each strand, preventing the intense heat from penetrating too deeply into the hair shaft. This reduces the risk of dryness, split ends, and breakage.
3. Give your hair a break
Playing with your hair and experimenting with different hairstyles can be a fun activity. However, frequent styling, especially with hot tools, can take a toll on your hair's health over time. Giving your hair a rest from too much hair styling can help it recover and maintain its natural strength and shine.
Consider alternating between heat-styled looks and natural, heat-free styles like braids, buns, or letting your hair air dry. Not only will this help prevent excessive damage, but it will also give your hair a chance to regain moisture and vitality. Incorporating rest days into your styling routine ensures your hair stays healthy and less prone to dryness and breakage.
4. Keep the heat low
While it is tempting to use the highest setting in your hair straightener to speed up the process, using the highest setting isn't always the best choice for your hair. High heat can cause significant damage, especially if you have fine, delicate, or colour-treated hair. Adjusting the temperature depending on your hair type can help you achieve smooth, shiny results without compromising your hair’s health.
5. Never use hot tools on wet hair
When your hair is wet, the strands are more elastic, making them much more vulnerable to damage. Using hot tools like straighteners on damp hair can lead to burning, excessive dryness, and even cause the hair to steam, which further weakens the hair shaft.
Hence, it would be best to make sure your hair is fully dry before using any heat-styling tools. This helps prevent stress on the hair, preserving its strength and minimising the risk of long-term damage.
Want to Achieve Healthy, Strong, and Vibrant Hair?
Trying out different hairstyles is always fun, but it is important to keep your hair’s health in mind while experimenting. As mentioned, heat styling tools can give you the perfect look, but overusing them can leave your hair dry, brittle, and damaged. By following a simple and gentle hair routine, you can maintain its strength, moisture, and shine.
Moreover, using the best hair growth products from Follicle Labs can help support your hair’s overall health and vitality. Our scientifically-backed products are designed to nourish the scalp, promote healthy hair growth, and boost the strength of each strand.
Want to learn more about us? Visit our website today!