How to Use a Hair Curling Iron

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How to Use a Hair Curling Iron Information

Using a curling iron can be a quick and easy way to create lovely locks, it can also be difficult and damaging to hair if they are not used properly. Here are some suggestions on selecting the correct hair curling iron for your hair and how to use your curling iron most effectively to get the gorgeous curls you want.

Curling Iron Sizes:

• If you want small, springy curls, choose a small barrel size such as .75 inch. We recommend this for short or fine hair to give the illusion of volume.

• If you want basic, natural curls, go for the 1 inch curling iron.

• If you're going for voluminous waves, we recommend a large barrel such as the 1.5 - 2 inch.

• There are a couple of kinds of irons available: metal plated curling irons and ceramic curling.

• Ceramic curling irons produce gentler, more controlled heat. This is in part because of the nature of ceramic, which is able to produce radiant rather than direct heat. It's also because the ceramic, when heated, generates negative ions - unlike positive ions produced by metal.

• Positive ions cause the cuticle covering of the hair shaft to open, causing frizz and dullness and making hair susceptible to humidity. Negative ions seal the hair shaft, "trapping" moisture, which protects your hair from the heat of the iron.

• Select a hair curling iron with variable temperature settings.

• Hair that's coarse or thick needs to be curled at high temperatures to hold those curls.

• Normal hair can be curled at the mid range of the hair curling iron temperatures. We recommend that you try a lower temperatures first.

• Thin, fine hair or hair that is permed, coloured or damaged should be curled on the lower heat settings.

• A hair curling iron with features such as a specialized handle, rolling barrel or swivel cord can be more comfortable to use for longer periods, especially if you use your curling iron often.

• Another good feature is an indicator light, this is standard on most modern curling irons. This tells you when your iron is heated and ready to use.

• Use: Dry your hair thoroughly - wet hair gives limp results, and curls won't develop properly. Use a thermal spray or heat serum before using your curling iron to prevent any heat damage. Comb your hair so that it is tangle free.

• If you have medium or long hair, you'll find it easier if you start curling at the back of your head. For short hair, it will be easier to start at the crown. Curl only a small amount of hair at a time, in sections of about 1-2". Separate your hair and start rolling from the tip of the section.

• With hair secured by the iron clamp, roll up to about an inch from your scalp. Hold it there for 10 seconds. Release the curl by opening the curling iron and sliding it carefully out. If you have long hair, you can pin the curl in place with a hair grip to preserve the shape while you keep working. If you have sections of hair that you don't want curled at the tips, just wrap the hair around the barrel of the iron as described above without using the clamp, hold for 10 seconds and release. Repeat this technique for the rest of your hair.

• When you've created your curls, use a hairspray to set them in place. You can then remove any hair pins, and complete the styling of your curls with your fingers.

• Take care of your hair curling iron, it is best kept on heat proof mat. You'll be able to place your iron on the mat whist it's hot if you need to, protecting your furniture and carpets.