With so many electric hair tools on the market and new innovations hitting the shelves all of the time, it can be tricky to know how to get the best results without damaging your locks. This guide will help you maximise the potential of your trusty hair styling tools, so you can achieve salon-worthy styles from the comfort of your own home.
HAIR STRAIGHTENERS
Find your perfect match: Straighteners come in a variety of plate materials and heat settings. For fine hair, opt for lower temperatures and ceramic plates, while thicker hair can handle higher heat and titanium plates.
Preparation: Always use a heat protectant spray before straightening to shield your hair from heat damage.
Sectioning: Sectioning your hair into manageable portions ensures even heat distribution and prevents overheating.
Take your time: Run the straighteners slowly and smoothly down each section to avoid snags and breakage.
HAIR CURLERS
Wide variety: From wands to barrels, there’s a curler for every curl type. For loose, beachy waves, opt for a large-barrel wand. Looking to create tight ringlets? A smaller barrel will do the trick.
Avoid prolonged use: Hold the curler on each section of hair for no longer than 10-15 seconds to avoid heat damage.
Let it cool down: Don’t brush or style your curls until they’ve completely cooled to set the shape.
Finger detangle: Rather than using a brush, you can use your fingers to gently separate the curls for a more natural look.
HAIR DRYERS
Power: Choose a hairdryer that is best suited to your hair type. Fine hair can handle a lower wattage, while thick hair benefits from a higher wattage.
Attachments: Diffuser attachments are great for taming frizz and defining natural curls, while concentrator nozzles help direct airflow for a smooth blowout.
Find the right distance: Hold your hair dryer at least 15cm away from your hair to prevent heat damage.
Cooldown: Finish your styling with a blast of cool air to set your style and add shine.
HOT BRUSHES
Versatility: Hot brushes combine the power of a hairdryer with the styling versatility of a brush.
Damp hair: Towel-dried hair is the ideal starting point for using a hot brush.
Work your way up: Start at the roots and brush down sections of hair, following the direction you want your hair to fall.
Less is more: Don’t overdo it with the hot brush. Over-styling can lead to volume loss and heat damage.