What Is the Best Temperature for Straightening Hair?

When it comes to using hot tools, there are a lot of things to consider. Sure, you probably know that heat protectant is a necessity, but are you aware that the temperature of your heat tools is equally as important? While your heat protectant may offer protection against high temperatures, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should be turning the dial all the way up. If you’ve ever wondered what the best temperature for straightening hair is, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’re sharing the details on hair straightener temperatures, as well as a few hairstyling tips for getting a pin straight mane.

WHAT IS THE BEST TEMPERATURE FOR STRAIGHTENING HAIR?

So, is there an ideal flat iron temperature for achieving straight locks? Yes—and no. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to what the best temperature for straightening hair is, the right temperature will be the lowest setting that allows you to achieve straight strands with a single pass of your flat iron. That means no going over your locks multiple times! Pretty simple, right? Of course, there are a few factors that can contribute to how hot your flat iron should be.

Factor #1: Hair type. As you probably already know, certain hair types are easier to straighten than others. Thick, curly hair tends to require a higher heat setting—and a bit more work—in order to be transformed into perfectly straight strands. On the other hand, those with fine or nearly straight hair can typically get away with much lower temperatures.

Factor #2: Hair damage. If your hair is damaged, it’s a good idea to keep your flat iron temperature as low as possible—and avoid straightening your hair as much as possible in the first place. Already damaged hair can become even more damaged when high temperatures are used on it! The same goes for color-treated hair; play it safe and turn down that dial.

Factor #3: Hair products. Certain hair products can aid you in your hair straightening process, allowing you to use lower temperatures than you normally would to achieve straight hair. Try using hair care products that help straighten hair to get things going in the right direction.

It’s also important to stay in range of the temperature listed on your heat protectant, i.e., if your protectant says it protects against temperatures up to 350 degrees, don’t make your flat iron hotter than that. Exceeding this number will prevent your heat protective spray or cream from being able to do its job!

3 TIPS FOR GETTING PIN STRAIGHT HAIR

Like we mentioned, aside from using your flat iron at the right temperature, there are other tips and tricks that can help you achieve a perfectly straight mane. Find three tips for getting super straight hair, below.

TIP #1: PREP YOUR STRANDS THE RIGHT WAY

First and foremost, it’s important to prep your strands prior to reaching for your flat iron. You’ll want to use a system of shampoo and conditioner that’ll keep your locks smooth and frizz-free, like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Frizz-Defy Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Frizz-Defy Conditioner.

After washing your strands, apply the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle SLEEK IT Frizz Vanisher Cream, which is specifically formulated to fight frizz, lock out humidity, and tame flyaways for sleek, polished hair, on damp hair.

TIP #2: LET YOUR HAIR COOL DOWN

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is touching your hair right after you’ve straightened a section. Seriously! After straightening your hair strand by strand, be sure to allow your hair time to cool down. This will help ensure your hair sets while perfectly straight. When it’s still warm, it can be easily molded into a different, less-than-straight shape.

TIP #3: KEEP HUMIDITY AT BAY

If there’s one thing that can ruin a perfectly straight head of hair in an instant, it’s humidity. Whether it’s the middle of summer or simply a muggy day, there are hair products you can use to keep humidity from taking a toll on your straight hair. After you’ve finished using your flat iron and allowed your hair to cool, mist on the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Weather Control Hairspray for a humidity-resistant, frizz-free style.

Next: How to Curl Your Hair with a Flat Iron