How to Curl Hair Using a Flat Iron

You don’t need to buy a curling wand to achieve gorgeous wavy hair. Discover how to curl hair using a flat iron in four different styles.

By: All Things Beauty

November 14, 2023

Read Time: 4 Minutes

Time

30 Minutes

Skill

easy

Hair

Towel

Hair

Loose Comb

Hair

Hair Ironer

Sunsilk Damage Reconstruction Shampoo

When it comes to heat-styling tools, a flat iron is as multipurpose as a Swiss army knife. You can use it to straighten your hair (obviously), smooth wrinkles out of your clothes in a pinch, and – surprise, surprise – create the most natural-looking curls and waves you’ve ever seen. Below, we’ll guide you on how to curl hair using a flat iron and tips to master the techniques.

Before we dive into the step-by-step details on how to curl hair using a flat iron, there are various techniques you can employ to achieve different types of curls. That’s right – one tool can get you a bunch of hairstyles, from beachy waves to loose Jessica Rabbit-esque retro curls.

It’s the easiest technique to nail down and will give you bouncy curls like when you would use a curling wand. To do it, hold your flat iron vertically and clamp your hair between the plates. Twist the iron 180 degrees away from your face as you glide it down your lengths.

For those carefree waves à la Serena van der Woodsen’s, position your straightener horizontally and clamp a few strands of hair. Create a C-shape bend by twisting your wrist, as if you’re turning a doorknob, and pulling the iron downward. Stop, and rotate your wrist in the opposite direction. Keep repeating the process until you reach the tips.

Using your free hand, pinch each section of hair to make an S shape. Hold it in place, then stamp it with your flat iron repeatedly. Move down and begin again, but bend the hair in the opposite direction to form a reversed S. This method results in vintage, Hollywood finger waves that give off an elegant vibe.

Step 1: Start with clean hair.

Oil from your scalp can weigh down your mane and make it resistant to curling. Washing your hair before you style helps solve this common issue. It allows the heat from the flat iron to distribute evenly, ensuring your curls hold their shape for longer.If you’re someone who heat-styles their hair on a daily, you run the risk of damaging your tresses. Not to worry, though. Wash your hair with Sunsilk Damage Reconstruction Shampoo. It combines the power of keratin, almond oil, and vitamin C to revive dull and brittle hair.

Woman touching the ends of her hair with her fingers.

Step 2: Prep for success.

It’s normal to have frizz and tangles here and there, especially when your hair is no stranger to chemicals and dyes. That’s where styling products can help. After shampooing, coat your strands from mid to end with Cream Silk Ultimate Reborn Damage Control Conditioner. This deep conditioner contains rosehip, marula, and argan oils that evenly coat the hair fibers, leaving your strands soft and strong.Continue by patting your hair dry with a towel to remove excess moisture. Evenly spray heat protectants all over your locks to shield them against extreme temperatures. Want your curls to last for days? Apply styling mousse to damp hair!

Woman brushing her long hair with a black comb.

Step 3: Brush thoroughly.

Attempting to style matted hair will only lead to uneven curls or, worse, hair fall. So pick up a wide-tooth comb and gently brush from the ends all the way to the roots. Try not to yank or pull your strands. Patience is key in this step.

Woman curling her hair with a flat iron.

Step 4: Curl your hair in small sections.

Take a one-inch section and use just the right amount of pressure – not too firm, not too gentle – when clamping it with your flat iron. Recall the curling technique we mentioned before, whether you’re going for classic curls or smooth waves. Begin with the strands closest to the nape of your neck and work your way up toward the top layers.

Hair stylist curling a woman’s hair with a flat iron.

Step 5: Add volume to your roots.

Grab a small section of hair near your crown – this is where you want the most volume. Now lift the section and curl the base outward. Release the flat iron and allow the hair to cool while you hold it in place. To maximize the volumizing effect, pin the curled section toward your scalp.

Woman spritzing hairspray to secure her loose curls.

Step 6: Secure with hairspray.

Hold your head upside down and lightly mist flexible-hold hairspray all over your locks. This step in how to curl hair using a flat iron will keep your curls in place and bouncy. Make sure to hold the can about 15 to 30 centimeters away from your strands. If you prefer a more tousled look, break up the curls with your fingers and scrunch up the ends.Like any hairstyling technique, figuring out how to curl hair using a flat iron takes some practice. But once you’ve got the hang of it, you may like the results better over those achieved with a curling wand. Plus, it means you have one less hair tool to bring on a trip.