Femme Fashion

[Gemme]

Originally Posted by IslandScout

Hi, Kim.

I like that straight hair look that I'm seeing a lot now, and that's what I'm looking to get with a curling iron. Since my hair is long now I thought it would be fun to have it be more straight, that it would have more "swing."

No, I don't use a product specifically designed to protect against heat when blow drying—that is a very good question and I should see what's out there.

I do use an Aveda leave-in conditioner called Damage Remedy, and an Aveda "smoothing fluid" in their Light Elements line. Sometimes for control I use the Light Elements "detailing wax" which is like hair spray without alcohol.

But no, none of these products is expressly for protection with blow drying or curling irons.

And I never see steam coming off my hair when I blow dry it, so maybe I need to get something to protect it against the hot air.

Thanks for writing!
IslandScout

Kim knows hair, so she'll be a great resource for you.

My question would be, if you are trying to straighten your hair, why you want to use a curling iron versus a flat iron?

[Christy51274]

I know you mentioned that you're looking for a curling iron, however I've been straightening my hair for years and have tried many products/tools. I've owned a Sedu since 2006 and will never use another. It's over $100, but the investment is definitely worth it. It's a flat iron, not a curling iron, but is one of the best out there. Read the reviews below:

[ame="http://www.amazon.com/Sedu-Revolution-Tourmaline-Ionic-Styling/dp/B003AJLQ4W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332935170&sr=8-1"]Amazon.com: Sedu Revolution Tourmaline Ionic Styling Iron 1" - Black: Beauty[/ame]

I use Redken's Smooth Down Heat Glide, which works like a miracle! (The shampoo and conditioner are great as well)

Also, look into Keratin hair treatments (also known as Brazilian straightening). They're a bit pricey, but won't damage your hair and will keep it straight for a few months at a time.

Good luck,
Christy

Originally Posted by IslandScout

Hi, I'm looking for a little advice.

I have layered hair, blond (hell yes I get highlights!), thick but fine, naturally wavy, past my shoulders, and I blow dry it every other day or so. I'm thinking of getting a curling iron, and I was wondering if anyone could recommend one that doesn't break or damage their hair.

Thanks!

IslandScout

[Gemme]

Originally Posted by Christy51274

I know you mentioned that you're looking for a curling iron, however I've been straightening my hair for years and have tried many products/tools. I've owned a Sedu since 2006 and will never use another. It's over $100, but the investment is definitely worth it. It's a flat iron, not a curling iron, but is one of the best out there. Read the reviews below:

Amazon.com: Sedu Revolution Tourmaline Ionic Styling Iron 1" - Black: Beauty

I use Redken's Smooth Down Heat Glide, which works like a miracle! (The shampoo and conditioner are great as well)

Also, look into Keratin hair treatments (also known as Brazilian straightening). They're a bit pricey, but won't damage your hair and will keep it straight for a few months at a time.

Good luck,
Christy

I haven't heard of that brand. I have a Chi and it was also about a c note. I love it though and, as long as I keep the receipt, if it ever breaks I can get a new one, no matter what store I bring it to. Love that!

Suave just came out with a DIY at home keratin treatment. I'm going to try it in about a week.

[Talon]

Originally Posted by IslandScout

Hi, I'm looking for a little advice.

I have layered hair, blond (hell yes I get highlights!), thick but fine, naturally wavy, past my shoulders, and I blow dry it every other day or so. I'm thinking of getting a curling iron, and I was wondering if anyone could recommend one that doesn't break or damage their hair.

Thanks!

IslandScout

Hello I/S...you want to definitely use a heat-protection spray before using *any* heat tools on your hair. You don't have to spend a great deal on a thermal spray to get the benefits, although any good heat tools are pricey, but well worth the investment. I only use conditioning ceramic natural ionic energy with tourmaline heat styling tools. They are the least damaging to the hair, though nothing is completely damage-free. Some also have multiple settings to reduce damage, as well.

[thedivahrrrself]

Originally Posted by IslandScout

Hi, I'm looking for a little advice.

I have layered hair, blond (hell yes I get highlights!), thick but fine, naturally wavy, past my shoulders, and I blow dry it every other day or so. I'm thinking of getting a curling iron, and I was wondering if anyone could recommend one that doesn't break or damage their hair.

Thanks!

IslandScout

I love, love, LOVE Hot Tools! I get it at Ulta. They have flat irons and curling irons. You can adjust the temp on it to be just warm or blazing hot, and they heat up in like 60 seconds. They're not cheap, but they'll last you forever. (I've had my first hot tools iron for 13 years.) Oh, and spend the extra money and get a ceramic iron. Helps with the frizz (I have the same kind of hair).

I definitely agree to use heat products on your hair even before you blow dry. Don't forget to post pics of your new do's!

One more thing, if your ends are getting dry, try using a Hair Masque to deep condition once a week. I recommend H2O's seaweed masque. You can get it at Ulta too (or whatever the equivalent of Ulta is near you).