Words that end in “cone” tend to signify a non-water soluable silicone.

Long story short, silicones can have beneficial effects, especially when it comes to straightening with heat.

Just be aware of what kind you’re using and when you use it.

Woman using flat iron

This is true whether you’re brushing it or doing a vigorous towel dry (viaSelf).

This is believed to result in less damage and less frizz.

Begin by sectioning hair into three big chunks.

Woman towel drying hair

venture to create straight lines when parting your hair.

Four to six smaller divisions per section tend to work well.

Think about it when you pull hair tightly, it becomes straighter.

Woman’s hair clipped up

This gives the iron an easier time achieving the smooth, sleek look you’re after.

Fewer exposures to heat mean less damage.

After those few seconds are up, move on to the next piece.

Woman using flat iron

Flat irons often havetemperature settingsranging from 140 to 450 degrees.

Depending on how fine or thick your hair is, your needs may vary.

Nevertheless, the sweet spot tends to be in the mid-200s to mid-300s (viaByrdie).

Thermometer close up

Baby-fine hair or strands that are damaged or color-treated will typically be fine on the lower end.

Always start at a lower level and increase as needed."

Each material transmits heat through the hair differently.

Woman looking at flat irons

If wielded improperly, titanium plates can result in greater damage, especially to curly or textured hair.

Start by gently drying your hair with a T-shirt or microfiber towel until it’s about halfway dry.

Blow drying hair that’s soaking wet or totally dry is not ideal.

Woman blow drying hair

Sam Villa suggests using a round brush, but avoid ones with metal bristles.

When complete, finish with a smoothing cream, serum, or light hairspray to keep things sleek.

In between those straightening sessions, treat your tresses to a lush deep conditioning treatment or protein mask.

woman’s hair back view

According to the experts atSwirly Curly Hair, applying hydrating treatments helps add back needed moisture and repair damage.

She also suggests managing frizz by applying a serum to damp hair and letting it air dry.

This method works best on hair that’s medium to long in length that tends to straighten relatively easily.

Woman wearing hair rollers

Believe it or not, you’re able to also use rollers to straighten your hair.

“Then, secure with a duckbill clip on each side.”