If you have naturally curly hair, you know the effort it takes to transform those gorgeous curls into sleek, straight strands. It's more involved than a quick blow-dry, requiring the right products and techniques for lasting results. Curious if your routine measures up? Follow this proven guide from hair pros to style curly hair flawlessly.
How to Style Curly Hair
Curly locks are stunning, but a smooth straight look has its appeal. Before firing up the straightener, master these essentials to straighten curly hair without damage:
Wash your hair
Start with a frizz-control shampoo and conditioner. Use lukewarm water—hot water strips natural oils and amps up frizz. Apply conditioner lightly to mid-lengths and ends only. After rinsing, blot dry with a microfiber cloth or soft T-shirt; both are gentler on strands than a regular towel.
Prepare your strands
Before blow-drying, mist damp hair with heat protectant spray. This shields all hair types from heat damage. Section your hair, apply evenly, and comb through for full coverage.
Blow dry
Now, grab your blow dryer and round brush. Clip hair into sections for precision, drying small areas completely on medium or warm heat before moving on.
Get your hair straightener
With hair fully dry, clip into a half-up style. Flat iron tiny sections in one or two passes on the lowest effective setting. Smooth the bottom half first, then release and repeat on top. Blow-drying beforehand is crucial for hair health—never straightener wet or damp strands, as it causes serious damage and poor results.
Finish with hairspray
A few spritzes of strong-hold hairspray locks in your style without weighing it down. Shake the can, hold 1 foot from your head, and spray lightly to avoid greasiness.
