Tips to avoid heat damage while on a healthy hair journey.

For years my clients have asked, what temperature should  my flat Iron be set on? At first glance it is easy to look in the mirror at the thickness of your hair and  go straight to high, or the highest setting possible.  Or rather just going by experience combing or styling your tresses  and say to yourself,  High.  

My answer to them, is a resounding, No!

To better assist them at home, I interviewed many of my them  to answer what temperature their flat iron should be set to and  how to avoid heat damage at home I showed them exactly how to determine the temperature setting  for their specific hair texture and type amongst other things to  ensure you avoid heat damage. Knowing the exact setting is important key to avoid damaging your tresses.  I the course  I highly suggest to them  prior to flat ironing their hair to first grab a piece of  end paper (usually used for rolling hair) or a  white paper towel.  Set your iron at it's lowest setting. then wait about a minute or so depending on the time it takes to allow your flat iron to heat up.  Next place the piece of paper between the flat iron and close as if you were flat ironing a hair strand of hair.

 Be careful, you could easily burn your fingers in the process. 

​ Hold the iron closed on the piece of paper for a few seconds.

 Take it out and observe your findings. 

• Is your white paper colored brown? 
• Is the paper still white?

If paper is white, the irons are good, 

 If brown, the irons are too hot. 

Brown means the irons are too hot and the heat setting temperature needs to be adjusted. Do this as you increase the temperature on your irons. This process may take longer than your accustomed too,  however your tresses will thank you for it.

Fix this mistake and  you will avoid one of the causes of heat damage I share in the avoid heat damage course. 

Once you have tested the irons out on paper your ready for your tresses. Part your hair into  sections secure each section down with a clip or hair pin. Then take the section close to you nap area and part out a slice  of your hair to be flat ironed. Once you have parted this section, look back at your flat iron make certain you start with the lowest temperature possible. Once you have tried it on the lowest setting check your results. 

Do you like the way it feels?
Is it straight enough for you?
Can you comb through the  section easily without resistance?

If the answers to the questions above  are yes. Viola! Your tresses desired heat setting has been achieved. 
If no, It's okay. Repeat the process.  

Remember though to slightly turn the iron up a little at each testing. Until you reach desired results. 

These are just a couple of the mistakes I see people make when flat ironing at home. If you would like extra help avoiding heat damage you can purchase   How to avoid heat damage   here.

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