Summer Hair Routine: Sleek Straight Hair with a Curling Iron

Updated at: 26/12/2024

Summer's heat and humidity can wreak havoc on even the most meticulously styled hair, leaving you battling frizz and losing that sleek, straight look you crave. But what if we told you that achieving effortlessly chic straight hair, even with the added touch of subtle waves or curls, is entirely possible, even during the most sweltering days? Forget the constant battle against frizz and embrace a routine that not only protects your hair but also allows for creative styling. This isn't about fighting your hair's natural texture, but rather working with it to achieve the perfect summer look.

This summer, ditch the damaging flat iron and discover the surprising versatility of a curling iron for creating smooth, straight hair with a touch of effortless movement. We'll guide you through a step-by-step process that utilizes the curling iron in a unique way, resulting in stunning, sleek locks that withstand the heat and humidity. Get ready to unlock the secret to achieving enviable summer hair, starting right now.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Curling iron with a clamp
  • Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Strength & Moisture Leave-In Mask
  • Olaplex No. 2 Bond Smoother
  • Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque
  • Shu Uemura Art of Hair Essence Absolue
  • Revlon blow dryer
  • Bumble and bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer
  • Wet Brush
  • Bumble and bumble Surf Foam-Blow Dry Lotion
  • Clairol Shimmer Lights Shampoo
  • Ultra Light Dry Conditioner
  • Marc Anthony Volume Texture Spray
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use a heat protectant spray before using any heat styling tool on your hair. This will minimize damage and breakage.
  • Adjust your curling iron's temperature according to your hair type. Thicker hair may require higher heat, while fine hair needs lower heat settings to avoid burning.
  • Don't keep the curling iron on one section of hair for too long. Quick, even passes will help prevent damage and achieve a sleek look.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Washing and Conditioning

    • Wash hair twice a week using Clairol Shimmer Lights shampoo and Olaplex No. 2. Apply Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque, focusing on ends.

  2. Applying Leave-In Treatments

    • Apply Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Strength & Moisture Leave-In Mask.
    • Apply Bumble and bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer.
    • Apply Shu Uemura Art of Hair Essence Absolue.

  3. Pre-Styling Prep

    • Brush hair with Wet Brush.
    • Apply Bumble and bumble Surf Foam-Blow Dry Lotion.
    Apply Bumble and bumble Surf Foam-Blow Dry Lotion.
    Pre-Styling Prep

  4. Blow-Drying

    • Blow-dry hair.

  5. Straightening with Curling Iron

    • Straighten hair using a curling iron, clamping sections of hair and gently gliding the curling iron from root to tip, flipping the ends under to create volume and smoothness. Repeat for all sections.
    Straighten hair using a curling iron, clamping sections of hair and gently gliding the curling iron from root to tip, flipping the ends under to create volume and smoothness. Repeat for all sections.
    Straightening with Curling Iron

  6. Next-Day Touch-Up (Optional)

    • Touch up with Ultra Light Dry Conditioner and/or Marc Anthony Volume Texture Spray the next day, if desired.

Read more: Get Gorgeous, Long-Lasting Curls in Under 10 Minutes!

Tips

  • Using a curling iron with a clamp allows for better control and smoother straightening.
  • Flipping the ends under when straightening with the curling iron adds volume and prevents a pin-straight look.
  • Work in sections to ensure even heat distribution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Too High Heat

Reason: High heat can damage your hair, leading to breakage, dryness, and split ends, especially when straightening and then immediately curling.
Solution: Use a lower heat setting and multiple passes instead of one high-heat pass.

2. Not Using Heat Protectant

Reason: Heat styling without a heat protectant spray or serum can severely damage hair, making it brittle and prone to breakage.
Solution: Apply a heat protectant spray or serum to damp hair before straightening and curling.

FAQs

Can I achieve sleek straight hair with a curling iron?
Yes! Using a curling iron with a smaller barrel and straightening techniques (like wrapping small sections away from the face and then towards the face) can create a sleek, straight look, especially if your hair is naturally straight or slightly wavy. It's less damaging than a flat iron for some.
What heat setting should I use on my curling iron for straightening?
Start with a lower heat setting (around 250-300°F) to avoid heat damage. Increase the temperature only if necessary. Always use a heat protectant spray before using any heat styling tool.