How to Make Wavy Hair with a Flat Iron – 2 Easy Steps!

Table of Contents

I have always depended on flat irons from the very beginning. At first, it was all about straightening my hair, but as time passed by and I realized how my wavy hair could look so much better with the right products, than just looking straight, I have never looked back.

You don’t need to go all extra with curlers and several other techniques. All you need is a flat iron and it will be done in no time without putting in much effort or spending a lot of money.

I can assure you that it is so simple and you don’t need to be a professional stylist to get fabulous hair looks. 

And yes, flat irons not only straighten your hair, but you can create gorgeous wavy locks with these. 

So keep reading, where I will tell you more about Preparing your hair, Choosing the Right Flat Iron, and exactly How to Make Wavy Hair with Flat Iron!

Section 1: Preparing Your Hair

Wash and Dry Your Hair

First of all, I usually start by making sure that my hair is completely clean and dry. Saying so because I have noticed how styling on freshly washed hair gives better results as there is no product build-up or any greasiness.

Then use a good quality sulfate-free shampoo because sulfates weigh down your hair and can be harmful to your hair. I generally use the SheaMoisture Shampoo and it works like a charm for my hair, and would recommend the same.

After washing, dry your hair properly. I usually let it dry naturally and it’s better that way but in case you are running out of time, you can use a blow dryer for added smoothness and volume.

Also, a small tip ahead, if you use a blow dryer, is that you can apply a heat protectant. That has always helped me with protecting my hair from any heat damage from the flat iron.

Apply Heat Protectant

As said above, applying heat protectant spray is a must if you want to keep your hair healthy while using hot flat iron or any such tools. 

I suggest so because heat protectants create a barrier between the hair and the hair styler that protects your hair from any damage. 

I would recommend you to choose the one that offers 450°F protection and suits your hair type.

I apply the spray evenly throughout my hair covering every strand. Later, I just roughly comb through to ensure more coating of the hair spray.

Section 2: Choosing the Right Flat Iron

Size and Shape of the Flat Iron

I believe that the size of the flat iron totally impacts the type and intensity of the waves that you can make.

According to me, if you want more loose, beachy waves, you can use a flat iron with 2 inches of wider plates. Also, if you prefer tighter waves, go for a narrow iron which can be about 1 inch. 

And, the edges of the plates matter a lot. If the edges are rounded, it can create smoother waves without any creases.

Investing in a good quality flat iron can make a big difference. I use the Revlon Smooth Brilliance Hair Straightener. Ceramic plates often distribute heat evenly and reduce frizz, which is why I love Revlon for quick heat and work.

Temperature Settings

Opt for the flat iron that offers the temperature setting feature. I feel its important so that it minimizes the heat damage on our hair.

I believe fine or damaged hair can be styled at a lower heat setting between 300-350°F, while thicker or coarser hair can handle higher temperatures (up to 450°F). 

I would say that always start with a lower temperature and then gradually increase the heat accordingly. Using too high of a temperature can damage your hair

Section 3: Creating Wavy Hair with a Flat Iron

Sectioning Your Hair

I start by properly sectioning  my hair as it is the main step to get even waves. Then I divide my hair into equal sections.

I would say, for medium to long hair, clip the top half up and work on the bottom layers first. For shorter hair, you can divide your hair into 2 or 3 sections. Just use clips to keep the separated sections separated.

The Twisting Technique

One of the easiest techniques I go for is The twisting technique. It is super easy to create waves with flat iron. This is how I do it:

1. Clamp and Twist: Take a small section of hair and clamp the flat iron near the roots. Then, I twist the iron away from my face while pulling it down the length of my hair. I would say that the more I twisted. the tighter my waves were.

2. Glide Smoothly: I slowly used to glide the flat iron down the section while maintaining the twist and made sure that I maintained a steady pace the entire time to avoid creating any creases.

3. Release and Cool: Then, I released the hair from the fat iron and let that cool on my hand for a few seconds to set the wave properly. 

Okay, so repeat this process for all the sections of your hair and you can also alternate the process for each section. One can be turned away from the face and one towards, so that it looks more natural. 

The S-Shaped Technique

I have noticed that The S-shaped technique gives a more relaxed and natural wave. Here’s how I do it:

1. Create an S-Shape: I usually take a section of my hair and start creating an S-shape with it by bending the hair back and forth.

2. Clamp the Iron: Then I start by clamping the flat iron over the bends of the S-shape and keep it held for a few seconds. After that, I move the iron down the section while clamping over each bend. 

3. Release and Set: At the end, I just release the section and let it cool. This helps to set my waves and last longer.

This method always works well for me and it will work well for all hair lengths as well. It is a perfect technique if you want to create beachy looks.

Section 4: Finishing Touches

Setting the Style

I always set my hair after styling so that it stays all day. After making the waves, I lightly mist my hair with a hair holding spray. This helped me in holding the waves in place without feeling stiff or crunchy. 

As I said above, remember to use a lightweight spray for fine or coarse hair and a stronger hold for thicker hair.

Avoid over-spraying because it can genuinely weigh down your waves and your hair will end up looking greasy. Just hold the spray 12 inches away from your hair and spray evenly through your hair.

Adding Volume and Texture

I think adding more volume to your hair can make it look more professional and presentable. You can comb the roots of your hair gently with a fine-tooth comb as it has always lifted my hair and prevented it from laying flat on my scalp.

Another alternative is that I use a sea salt spray like this which adds a grip and definition to my hair making it look more natural. Then I lightly scrunch my hair to enhance the texture. For added texture, use a texturizing spray or a sea salt spray.

Conclusion

As far as your concern of How to make Wavy Hair with a Flat Iron, this step-by-step guide by me will help you through each step. I will tell you exactly how the methods I use are super easy to follow. I will also tell you about the shampoos, heat protectant, and the hair straightener I use. 

And yes, you don’t have to be a pro stylist to do it, just know that practice can make it better. 

FAQs

No, I would say that you always use a flat iron on dry hair to avoid damage.

My waves usually last 1-3 days, but it also depends on your hair type and the products you use.

 I personally use a ceramic flat iron. It is better than the titanium one but titanium works well for thick hair.

Yes, as said above, using smaller sections using smaller sections can help in doing so.

Use a good heat protectant and finish with an anti-frizz serum.



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