If looking for a ceramic hot iron, there are quite a few choices and considerations to keep in mind. Plus, they can be used to create several different styles, providing great versatility.
When using a ceramic hot iron, keep in mind the type of hair and the length too.
Thick, Curly or Coarse Hair Plate Size
- Above the shoulders: 1" to 1 1/2"
- Shoulder Length: 1" to 2"
- Below the shoulders: 1 1/2" to 2"
The temperature should be 380 degrees to 410 degrees and the hot iron should be made of ceramic, titanium or tourmaline.
Normal to Medium Hair or Wavy Hair Plate Size
- Above the shoulders: 1/2 to 1 1/4"
- Shoulder Length: 1 to 1 1/2"
- Below the shoulders: 1 1/2" to 2"
The temperature should be 360 degrees to 380 degrees and the hot iron should be made of ceramic, titanium or tourmaline.
Thine or Fine Hair Plate Size
When working with thin or fine hair, any size will work.
The temperature should be below 360 degrees and the hot iron should be made of ceramic, titanium or tourmaline.
After choosing the correct hot iron for the hair type, there are different ways that the iron can be used. They can do more than just straighten hair, they are also able to create curls and flips.
Before using a ceramic hot iron, make sure to prep the hair first, this includes:
- Make sure that the hair is clean and dry. All styling products need to be removed before using a ceramic hot iron.
- It is best to shampoo and condition the hair first before using the iron.
- If possible, use shampoos and conditioners that offer additional hydrating for rigorous styling.
- Whenever possible, use a thermal spray or heat treatment on the hair before using the ceramic hot iron. Make sure the entire head is covered with it and this will help to protect the hair from damage.
Once the hair has been prepared and ready, there are a few different ways to use the ceramic hot iron on the hair. These include straightening, flipping and curling. Straightening is one of the simplest ways to use a ceramic hot iron. Start at the root of the hair and work your way down the hair to straighten. Move slowly, so that the hair is not pulled or tugged on and go through the head of hair in sections to ensure that all the hair is straightened.
Flipping is a similar to straightening the hair, except after straightening from the root down, once the end of the hair has been reached, the ceramic hot iron should be turned in the direction that the flip is desired. Then move the hot iron the rest of the way in this direction.
Curling with a hot iron is different than straightening or curling. Using plates that are slightly rounded or curved will make curling with it easier. However, the hot iron is still used the same way.
- Clamp a 1" section of the hair as close as possible to the scalp and turn the hot iron in the direction that the curl is desired. It will take approximately one and half turns.
- Keep the hot iron in this position and gently pull through at this angle to the length of the hair.
- Continue this process through the rest of the hair.
Ceramic hot irons are a great tool to use that can possibly eliminate the need for multiple curling irons and other curling sets. When using a ceramic hot iron initially it may be a bit difficult to create the flips and curls, however with some practice it will become a breeze and be very easy to do.
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