How to Create Spiral Curls with a Flat Iron

Achieving waves and curls that look natural and classic is no easy feat. And that's because every curly look requires a particular technique and skill, not forgetting a plethora of tools.

However, do you know that you can achieve the traditional spiral curls and other curly looks with just one tool? Yes, you can do that with the... (drumroll, please)... the good old-fashioned flat iron!

This "jack of all curl-creating trades" is one of the easiest ways to get those tight spirals that look modern and super elegant. But hey, if you don't know your way around a flat iron, it can be hard to figure out how to maneuver it through your hair. At least, not without messing it up.

Don't stress it, though.

We will break down how you can give your clients Instagram-worthy curls in a few simple steps. But, of course, DIYers are not left out. If you are always a victim of cheesy curls or have never quite mastered the technique, this guide on how to curl your hair with a flat iron is what you need for a classic spiral curl.

Without further ado, let's get things straightened out (pun intended), shall we?

Step 1

Safety first, people. Apply a heat-protectant spray to avoid hair damage and comb out the hair with a detangling brush.

Step 2

Remove a section (about 1-inch of hair) closest to the neck. Then, take your flat iron and clamp the hair at the root.

Step 3

Pull the flat iron down the hair shaft as though you want to straighten the hair. As soon as you reach the part you want the curl to begin, rotate the flat iron at least 180º so the hair flows over the iron.

As the hair wraps around the flat iron's barrel, push the iron toward your ends. Do this in one fluid motion to avoid creating unwanted crimps in the hair.

Just a quick reminder: smaller hair sections equal curlier hair. That means if you're aiming for some super tight curls, remove a section that isn't bigger than one inch.

Step 4

Continue curling your way up toward the edge of the hair. As you get to the edge, remember to clamp and rotate the flat iron slightly higher than the mid-length.

Step 5

Finish the one side (left or right) off by clamping a section of hair at the hairline. To curl, turn the iron away from the face and push the iron toward your ends. This section of hair is pretty easy to curl since it isn't as thick as the rest of your hair.

Step 6

Repeat the third step, but on the other side of your head.

Step 7

Repeat step 5 and finish off the hair at your hairline on your right or left side.

Step 8

Once you've curled the entire hair, massage the roots with your fingers to help break up the curls. You can also use a bristle brush for a more uniform look if you don't want a separated spiral finish.

And there you have it! You've successfully curled your hair with a flat iron. Before you take a pic of your glorious creation, spritz the hair with a hairspray to add shine and define sections.