let’s talk about hair straightener mistake you may be making
Curling irons have become an essential tool in our hair styling, allowing us to create gorgeous, bouncy curls at home. Whether you’re a casual user or a seasoned pro, chances are you’re making at least one of these common mistakes when it comes to curling irons.
But overlooking these mistakes can lead to not-so-beautiful curls, hair damage, and even burns.
But don’t worry… In this guide, we’ll look at the most common errors, why they’re harmful, and most importantly, how to avoid them.
Unravel the mysteries of your most common curling iron mistakes and set the record straight.
💡Tips: pin this article hair tip Post your board on Pinterest so you can come back to it whenever you need it. 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼
*This post contains affiliate links that will earn you a small commission at no extra cost if you make a purchase after clicking the link. This helps us provide the best possible content on this site for free. Please note that I only link to quality products that I have used myself and that I believe will be of benefit to my readers.
Please read my full affiliate disclosure for more information.
#1. How to choose the wrong curling iron
to choose right A curling iron is the first step to achieving those perfect curls that everyone would envy.
A common mistake is to choose irons based on what your friends use or what you see on YouTube tutorials, without considering your specific hair type and needs.
Curling irons come in a variety of barrel sizes and materials, each suitable for different hair types and desired curl styles. For example, a smaller barrel creates tight, defined curls, while a larger barrel is best for big, loose waves.
Material-wise, ceramic irons distribute heat evenly and are great for fine, delicate hair. Titanium irons, on the other hand, heat up faster and are more durable, making them ideal for thicker, stiffer hair.
The key is to understand your hair type, consider the style you want to have, and choose your curling iron accordingly. Keep in mind that using the wrong curling iron can result in substandard results and damaged hair.
Making the right choices is half the way to perfect curling.
#2. Undoing your hair
Believe it or not, one of the biggest curling iron mistakes is not properly prepping your hair before curling it.
This is important for achieving long-lasting, glossy curls. Just like a painter doesn’t work with a dirty canvas, hair should be clean and dry before using a curling iron.
Dirty hair will cause the iron to stick, making curls less smooth and likely to break.
To condition your hair, first use a cleansing shampoo to remove built-up oil and product residue. Use a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair nourished and healthy.
Once your hair is clean, let it dry naturally or blow dry with a hairdryer on a low setting. Some experts recommend using a volumizing mousse or root lift spray to add body and hold to your hair.
The goal is to have your hair clean, dry and detangled before ironing. Don’t skip this simple step as it can make a big difference in your curling results.
#3. Curl your hair when it’s wet
A common misconception is that curling your hair when it’s damp makes it last longer, but this is actually one of the biggest mistakes you can make with your curling iron.
Not only will it not hold your curls, it can also seriously damage your hair.
Applying heat to wet hair can cause “bubble hair.” This is a condition where the water trapped within the hair shaft is heated and forms tiny bubbles that make the hair brittle and prone to breakage.
Always remember that curls love dry hair.
Also, always use a heat protectant spray before applying heat to your hair. This extra step protects your hair from unnecessary damage and gives your curls a smooth, shiny finish.
#4. Keeping the Iron in the Same Place Too Long
It’s common to think that the longer you hold the curling iron in the same place, the better the curl. However, this mistake can lead to excessive heat exposure, which can damage your hair, making it dry and brittle.
5-10 seconds is enough to create long lasting curls for most hair types.
If you don’t get the desired curl within this time, you may be using the wrong temperature setting or barrel size.
By being mindful of your time, you can achieve beautiful, bouncy curls without compromising your hair’s health.
#5. Don’t part your hair
Another big mistake is not parting your hair before curling it.
This can lead to uneven curls, hair shedding, and an overall messy look. By sectioning your hair, you can treat the manageable parts and ensure that all your hair gets the attention it deserves.
First, divide your hair into three sections: bottom layer, middle layer, and top layer.
Pin the top two sections together and start curling from the bottom layer upwards. This makes the process more manageable and helps create a more voluminous and natural look when the curls overlap.
Also, make sure the sections are about 1-2 inches wide. Anything larger and the heat won’t penetrate your hair properly and can result in loose, inconsistent curls.
Remember that the key to perfect curls is patience and precision. Take your time working through all the sections and aim for spectacular results.
#6. Using the Wrong Temperature
An often overlooked curling iron mistake is using the wrong temperature.
Temperature settings can have a big impact on how your curls turn out and how healthy your hair is.
Excessive heat can cause severe heat damage, leaving your hair dry, brittle, and split ends. On the other hand, if the temperature is too low, the hair cannot be curled effectively and the finish may be dull.
To avoid this, it’s important to choose the correct temperature for your particular hair type.
- fine or damaged hair Curl should be done cold, usually 200-300°F (93-149°C).
- medium texture hair It can generally withstand moderate temperatures of about 300-350°F (149-177°C).
- coarse or thick hair In some cases, temperatures as high as 350-450°F (177-232°C) may be required.
Remember to start with the lowest recommended temperature for your hair type and gradually increase the temperature as needed. Many modern curling irons have adjustable temperature settings that allow you to easily control the temperature level.
Curl your hair at the right temperature to achieve beautiful curls while minimizing the risk of heat damage.
#7.keep curls warm
An often-ignored step in the curling process is properly cooling the curls, which can affect their longevity and shape.
Hot curls are still flexible and can easily lose shape. The coolness closes the cuticle, setting the curls in place and keeping them in shape longer.
After removing the curl from the iron, hold it in your hand for a few seconds until it cools down. You can also clip the curls while they cool to create crisper, longer-lasting curls.
Once all your hair is curled and cooled, gently run your fingers or a wide-toothed comb through your hair to break up the curls and create a more natural look.
Remember patience is the key. Spend a little more time in the cooling step and you’ll have gorgeous, long-lasting curls.
#8. Skip hairspray and set products
Another curling iron mistake that can make your curls last longer or lack luster is not using hair spray or other setting products.
These products increase hair hold, keeping curls intact and voluminous all day long. Skipping this step can cause curls to lose elasticity and shape faster, especially in humid conditions and everyday life.
Curl your hair and let it cool, then finish with a light mist of hairspray. Consider using a setting lotion or mousse, depending on your hair type and the style you want to achieve.
But be careful not to overdo it. Too much can make your hair stiff and sticky. Apply evenly and sparingly for best results.
Also, don’t forget to choose a hairspray or setting agent that suits your hair type.
For fine hair, a lightweight, volumizing hairspray can give your curls the lift they need without weighing them down. Thicker, coarser hair may need something with stronger hold.
Incorporating a set product into your curling routine can help extend the life of your curls and achieve a more polished final look.
#9. Don’t Clean Your Curling Iron Regularly
Honestly, how often do you clean your hot tools? This step is often overlooked. However, like any other heat styling tool, your curling iron needs to be cleaned from time to time.
Over time, product from hairspray, heat protectants, and other styling aids can build up in the barrel. This affects the performance of the iron, causing uneven heat distribution, overheating the hair and creating scorching hot spots that damage the hair.
To keep your curling iron looking its best, be sure to clean it after a few uses. Allow the iron to cool completely, then gently wipe the barrel with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol.
Remove all traces of product residue. If stubborn dirt builds up, you can use a soft toothbrush to remove it. Always allow the iron to dry completely before storing it.
Cleaning your curling iron regularly will improve its performance, extend its lifespan, and keep you creating those bouncy curls you’ve always dreamed of for years to come.
final thoughts
Knowing how to wrap your hair around a barrel isn’t enough to master a curling iron. This includes understanding and avoiding common mistakes with curling irons.
Using the right products in the right order, choosing the right temperature for your hair type, letting your curls cool, and cleaning your curling iron regularly can make a big difference in achieving perfect, long-lasting curls. Remember
It’s all about patience, practice, and hair care. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to becoming a curling iron pro and will be able to create beautiful, bouncy curls with ease and confidence. Enjoy curling!
Until next time,
your turn: Are you making these mistakes with your curling iron without even realizing it? Are there any other common mistakes that should be added to this list? Let us know what you think in the comments section below. 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼
Other posts you’ll love:
Last Updated 2023-09-01 / Affiliate Links / Image from Amazon Product Advertising API
