5 Mistakes to Avoid When Straightening Your Hair
Protect your hair, save time, and achieve truly silky smoothness by avoiding these common pitfalls.
#1 Smooth onto wet hair
Straightening wet hair causes thermal shock : frizz, breakage, and loss of shine. Dry it completely first (using warm air) before straightening to protect the hair fiber.
💡 Tip: If you're short on time, dry at least 90% of your hair, focusing on the roots and nape of the neck.
#2 Using too high a temperature
Raising the temperature to 220°C "to go faster" damages the cuticle. Adjust the heat to the hair type :
- Thin/sensitive skin: 160–180 °C
- Normal/wavy: 175–190 °C
- Thick/curly: 190–200 °C
Always start lower, then increase slightly if needed.
#3 Forgetting about heat protection
Without a heat protectant spray , heat dehydrates the hair fiber, dulls it, and makes it fragile. A light mist before straightening limits breakage and preserves shine .
#4 Repeat passes on the same strand
Going over a strand 5-6 times unnecessarily heats it up and breaks it. Prefer 1 to 2 slow passes with good tension, on fine and well-detangled sections.
#5 Neglecting the maintenance of the straightener
Residue (care products, dust) accumulates on the plates and reduces glide . When cold, clean regularly with a slightly damp microfiber cloth. Store in a thermal case and check the USB-C cable/port.
Bonus: The right routine with LivaLiss
- Wash and dry thoroughly; apply a heat protectant .
- Set an appropriate temperature (see above).
- Divide into fine sections; 1–2 slow passes per strand.
- Finish with a light serum on the lengths to seal in the shine.
- Clean the plates while they are cold & recharge the straightener.
🔗 Try the LivaLiss – Cordless Mini Straightener : compact, USB-C powered, and with ceramic glide for fast & silky straightening anywhere.
Quick FAQ
How often can I straighten my hair?
2–3 times/week max with heat protectant and appropriate temperature. Vary with heat-free styling.
Does straightening make hair greasy?
No. Simply avoid applying too much oil/serum before straightening; it's better to use a small amount afterwards, on the ends.
How to avoid static electricity?
Choose ceramic plates, use a light moisturizing product, and finish with a mist of thermal water or flexible hairspray.