Photo: Chaymation / Flickr

If you’re thinking of getting a new haircut and wanting to go for a bold style, maintaining your look is probably something you’re thinking about. For most styles, the key to maintenance is twofold: using the correct products, and using the right equipment to keep hair in shape. A straightener may be the answer to keeping a slick, well-managed style in place, so find out more and see if this is the answer to your hairstyle problems.

Let’s get this straight

A hairstyle that’s cut in layers or that has different length and levels can look great when you leave the salon but deteriorate as time goes by. This is especially true for hair that’s coarser or has a slight curl. Ask your hair stylist whether the style you’re choosing is right for your hair type, and whether he or she thinks a straightening iron might help. Using the correct styling products and straightening methods can make a dramatic change to the quality of your hair.

Choosing a straightener

Photo: Beebit. / Flickr

One thing that you should definitely look for when purchasing a straightener is the ceramic plates that give the smoothest effect and damage your hair the least. You get what you pay for with hair straighteners, so if you’re going to be using yours often, go for the best quality you can afford and choose a reputable model like a GHD hair straightener.

So, you’ve got your straightener – now how do you use it?

Before you straighten your hair, apply a heat protection product. Get one that makes your hair smoother, but not greasy – a hairdresser can help with this. Next, secure your hair so that you can straighten it layer by layer, in small sections. It’s easy to get the hang of, and once you’re in the habit of using your hair straightener regularly you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Tags: hair care