The Flat Iron Curling Trick Every Hairstylist Knows
How to Curl Your Hair with a Straightener: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
A flat iron isn't just for sleek, straight hair—it can also create soft waves, loose curls, and even bouncy ringlets. The key is using the right technique and taking your time. Once you get the hang of it, curling with a straightener can be just as easy as using a curling iron.
Step 1: Start with Clean, Dry Hair
Your hair should be completely dry before using a straightener. Applying heat to damp hair can cause unnecessary damage and won't give you the best results.
Before you begin, always apply a heat protectant from roots to ends. This helps reduce heat damage while keeping your hair healthier and shinier.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into manageable sections.
Fine hair: 2–3 sections
Thick hair: 4–6 sections
Working with smaller sections creates more even, longer-lasting curls.
Step 3: Choose the Right Straightener
For curling, a straightener with rounded edges works best. The curved plates allow the hair to glide smoothly, creating a natural curl instead of sharp bends.
Step 4: The Curling Technique
Here's the basic motion:
Clamp the straightener about 1–2 inches away from your roots.
Rotate the straightener 180° to 360° (half to a full turn) away from your face.
Slowly pull the straightener down the length of your hair while keeping the iron turned.
Release at the ends.
The slower you glide the straightener, the more defined the curl will be.
For Loose Beach Waves
Use larger sections.
Rotate the straightener about 180°.
Pull through fairly quickly.
For Defined Curls
Use smaller sections.
Rotate closer to 360°.
Move more slowly through the hair.
Step 5: Alternate the Direction
For a natural, voluminous look, alternate the direction of your curls:
Curl one section away from your face.
Curl the next section toward your face.
Around your face, most people prefer curling away from the face to create a soft, flattering finish.
Step 6: Let the Curls Cool
Avoid touching your curls right away. Allow them to cool completely so they can set.
Once cooled:
Gently run your fingers through them for soft waves.
Leave them as they are for more defined curls.
Step 7: Finish with the Right Products
Complete your style with products that suit the look you're after:
Flexible hairspray: Keeps curls in place while maintaining movement.
Texture spray: Adds volume and creates a lived-in, beachy finish.
Hair oil or shine serum: Smooths frizz and adds polish—use just a small amount on the ends.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Holding the straightener too tightly: This can leave creases in the hair.
Using sections that are too large: The heat won't distribute evenly, causing curls to fall flat.
Moving too quickly: Your curls may not hold.
Skipping heat protectant: This increases the risk of dryness, breakage, and colour fading.
Using excessive heat: Most hair doesn't need the highest temperature setting. Fine or damaged hair typically styles well at lower temperatures, while thicker or coarser hair may require slightly higher heat.
Pro Tip
Don't worry if your first few curls aren't perfect. Curling with a straightener takes a little practice because you're combining a twist with a smooth glide. After a few tries, the motion becomes much more natural—and you'll be able to create salon-worthy curls with a tool you likely already own.
Whether you're aiming for effortless beach waves or glamorous curls, a straightener is a versatile styling tool that can help you achieve both with just a few simple techniques.