Straightening irons are a godsend when it comes to styling hair. They can transform frizzy, curly, or unruly hair into smooth, straight locks in a matter of minutes.

However, using a straightening iron improperly can lead to damaged, fried, or breakage-prone hair.

Here are the top straightening iron mistakes to avoid:.

1. Using the wrong temperature

Before you start straightening your hair, it’s crucial to check the temperature settings on your straightening iron. Ideally, you should start with the lowest heat setting and gradually increase it to the desired temperature.

Using a heat setting that’s too high can cause major hair damage, including split ends, burned strands, and loss of hair elasticity. Use a heat protectant spray before starting to straighten your hair.

2. Not cleaning the straightening iron

It’s essential to clean your straightening iron before and after each use to prevent a buildup of styling products, dirt, and oils.

Excess buildup can cause your straightening iron to underperform, lead to uneven heat distribution, and even damage your hair.

Use a damp cloth to wipe your straightening iron after use, or at least give it a thorough clean once a week. Don’t forget to unplug the iron before you start cleaning to avoid accidents.

3. Not sectioning your hair

Trying to straighten your entire head of hair in one go is one of the biggest mistakes you can make when using a straightening iron. Before you start, section your hair into smaller parts.

It’ll make the whole process faster, more manageable, and most importantly, prevent you from damaging your hair or missing spots.

Pull each section of hair taught, then run the flat iron down the entire section before moving to the next. This will provide even coverage and the straightest finish.

4. Straightening wet hair

Straightening wet hair is a big no-no. When you attempt to straighten your wet hair, the heat from the straightening iron can cause the hair shaft to expand and then quickly contract.

This trauma can damage the hair and cause it to become frizzy and break-prone.

Remember to dry your hair completely before straightening, or the iron will cause your hair to bubble and burn.

5. Straightening each section multiple times

Over-straightening your hair is not only time-consuming but also incredibly damaging.

Continuously running a straightening iron over the same section of hair can cause split ends, burned strands, and even breakage, leading to damaged, weak, and brittle hair.

Make sure to straighten each section only once or twice, and avoid pulling too hard at the hair to prevent uneven straightening or breakage. Use a good-quality straightening iron that provides even heat and good coverage with each pass.

6. Not protecting your hair

Straightening your hair regularly can lead to dry, damaged, and brittle hair, especially if you’re not taking adequate care of your tresses. To prevent hair damage, use a heat protectant spray before you start straightening your hair.

If you’re using your straightening iron more than once a week, it’s also important to invest in a good hair mask or serum that will nourish and hydrate your hair.

These products will reduce hair damage, increase shine, and keep your hair healthy and strong.

7. Straightening your hair too often

Straightening your hair frequently can lead to a variety of problems, including damage, breakage, and split ends. The higher the heat setting and the longer the straightening iron is in use; the greater the damage.

Give your hair a break from straightening and let it air dry or style it in other ways, at least once or twice a week. Follow hair care tips that strengthens the follicles and nourishes your hair from roots to tips.

8. Using a damaged straightening iron

Using a damaged or broken straightening iron is one of the most obvious mistakes you can make. A faulty straightening iron is not only dangerous but can also cause significant hair damage and even lead to hair breakage.

Always check if the device is in good condition before you start straightening your hair.

Check the power supply and the temperature settings, as well as any exposed wires or frayed cords.

9. Not letting your hair cool down

After straightening your hair, don’t immediately tie it up or put it on a tight clip. Doing so will leave an indent on your hair, interrupt the hair’s cooling and setting time, and lead to an unnatural hair texture.

Let your hair cool on its own for a moment before brushing it out. This will ensure that your hair stays smoother longer.

10. Forgetting to finish with hairspray

Adding hairspray after straightening would not only help hold your hair in place but will also maintain the shine and ensure that the hairstyle lasts longer.

Not adding hairspray is one of the most overlooked and final mistakes people make when using a straightening iron.

Add a light mist of hairspray, e.g., approximately from 6 inches away from your head, to keep your locks in place and protect them from humidity.