How to Curl Hair with a Flat Iron

@betoloveshair

Whether you recently graduated cosmetology school or have been a seasoned pro for years, curling hair with a flat iron can prove to be challenging. In fact, many stylists stray away from this technique altogether. But knowing how to properly use a flat iron can open up styling possibilities in the salon and provide an opportunity for professionals to educate their clients on how to achieve a variety of looks at home using just one tool.

Beto Sanchez is an elite stylist at Ulta Beauty's Chicago flagship salon location on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. He's also a member of Ulta's Design Team and MODERN's Artist Connective. In addition to swooning over his beautiful color work, fans of Sanchez turn to him to learn educational tips and tricks via the videos he posts to his @betoloveshair Instagram page and onstage representing Ulta at professional beauty events. 

Ulta's Design Team was created by Nick Stenson, Ulta Beauty SVP Salon Serves and Trend, and Ammon Carver, Ulta Beauty Chief Artistic Director, with the goal of bringing together a dynamic, diverse and talented group of industry-rising stars. Each member receives mentorship, education and exposure, such as training and stage experience.

"I love that we're able to collaborate and share our knowledge so that we can all improve and grow together," Sanchez says. "I have been able to change myself, but I'm so happy I'm able to inspire other stylists as well."

Below, Sanchez shares his tips to creating two wavy styles using a flat iron. 

Soft Waves:

How to Curl Hair with a Flat Iron

@betoloveshair

 

How-To:

  1. "For this type of styling I prepped the hair with all the Sebastian Professional's Dark Oil line (shampoo, conditioner, and oil)," Sanchez says. "I chose this brand because I wanted lots of shine and light reflection but also because it leaves the hair smooth without weighing it down."
  2. "I then blow dried the hair with Nick Stenson's Curious Brushes Cushion Brush using the tension for smoothness and allowing my styler to easily glide through the hair."
  3. "The technique I used with my Ghd Platinum+ styler is a 360 degree rotation for a strong curl pattern and also I’m slightly over-directing the movement to create more bounce in the hair. At the same time I’m alternating the direction where I turn my sections in order to create more “air” in between the curls making it expand and keep volume and texture (one section rotates left , the next one rotates right).

Watch the video here:

 

Glam Waves:

How to Curl Hair with a Flat Iron

@betoloveshair

  1. "First make sure you prep the hair with a product that allows you to glide the styler easier once dry," Sanchez says. "Some of my favorites are Wella's Invigo Miracle BB Spray and Mizani's Miracle Milk."
  2. "Once I've sprayed the product evenly, I dry the hair smooth with my Nick Stenson Curious Brushes Cushion brush to give the hair a soft and silky feel."
  3. "Then I use my Ghd hair Platinum+ styler to create soft waves by rotating the styler only 180 degrees (half a turn) and gliding in a diagonal down direction in order to create a soft glam wave pattern."
  4. "Brush/comb to break up and blend in the waves and voila! Beautiful soft and smooth waves with tons of shine."

Watch the video here:

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