Just realized I was wrong about using a 1-inch flat iron on natural hair after a client in Atlanta showed me her results from a method she calls 'ribboning'.

I always thought it would cause too much heat damage, but seeing her healthy, defined curls after 6 months of her routine has me debating if gentle, proper technique with the right tools is actually safe versus avoiding heat altogether.

3 comments

3 Comments

lilyp371mo ago

My stylist in Miami convinced me to try a flat iron on low heat last year, and my curls have never looked better.

wesleym481mo ago

Wait, isn't that still causing damage over time? I mean, low heat is better, but it's still direct heat on your hair. Maybe it's just me, but I feel like even with protectant, you're still cooking the curl pattern a little bit each time. I tried something similar and my curls just got weaker and frizzier after a few months. Idk, maybe some hair can take it, but it seems risky.

ruby_jones1mo ago

Right? It's all about the technique and heat protectant. I've seen people with amazing curls who use heat once a week but their method is so careful, it's like they're not even using direct heat.