Start With Clean, Dry Hair

• A hot straightening iron can damage wet hair. Make sure that your hair is clean, conditioned and dry before using a hot straightening iron. In order to provide more protection for your hair, you may want to use a heat protective spray or serum on your hair before using the straightening iron.
  
  

Work in Sections

• A hot straightening iron works better with small sections of hair. By working with small sections of hair, heat can be applied evenly and fewer passes of the iron will be necessary. Pull the iron over the hair section in one fluid motion. Don't stop partway through or use halting motions, as horizontal lines may be left in your hair.
  
  

Use a Finishing Product

• Your style will last longer if you finish with a light misting of hairspray and/or serum. This has the added benefit of taming any stray flyaway hairs. Be careful not to add too much product or your hair will look greasy.