Hair Care Tips Can A Flat Iron Be Used To Create A Flicked Out Look? By Marilyn Atkins Posted on August 27, 2023 0 If you’ve ever wondered whether your trusty flat iron can do more than just straighten your hair, we have some exciting news for you. Believe it or not, a flat iron can indeed be used to create a beautifully flicked out look. This versatile styling tool can help you achieve those effortlessly chic, bouncy ends that add movement and texture to your hair. Say goodbye to a one-dimensional, flat look and hello to a fabulous new hairstyle with just a flick of your flat iron! What is a flicked out look? A flicked out look refers to a hairstyle where the ends of the hair are styled to create an outward flip or flick. This style can add movement, volume, and a touch of playfulness to your hair. It is a versatile look that can be achieved with different hair lengths and textures, making it popular among people of all ages and hair types. Definition The flicked out look involves straightening the hair with a flat iron and then using the iron to create a subtle or dramatic flick at the ends. This flick can be achieved by carefully manipulating the flat iron in a specific manner, resulting in the desired outward bend of the hair. The flicked out look can be natural and effortless or more polished and intentional, depending on the styling technique used. Characteristics The key characteristic of a flicked out look is the noticeable outward flip or flick at the ends of the hair strands. This style creates movement and adds a touch of personality to the overall appearance. The flicked out ends can range from subtle bends for a softer look to more pronounced flips for a bolder and edgier style. Additionally, this hairstyle is versatile and can be customized to suit different hair lengths, textures, and personal preferences. Using a flat iron for hairstyles Introduction A flat iron, also known as a hair straightener, is a versatile hair styling tool that can be used for various hairstyles, including creating a flicked out look. Its design allows you to straighten, curl, or add waves to your hair depending on the technique you use. When it comes to achieving a flicked out look, a flat iron provides precise control and versatility, making it an excellent tool for styling the ends of your hair with ease. Benefits of using a flat iron Using a flat iron for creating a flicked out look offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows you to achieve sleek and straight hair as a base, providing a smooth canvas for the flicked out ends. Additionally, a flat iron offers precision and control, enabling you to manipulate your hair strands to create the desired flick. It also provides versatility, as it can be used on various hair lengths and textures. Lastly, a flat iron provides long-lasting results, keeping your flicked out look intact throughout the day. Types of hairstyles that can be created While a flat iron is commonly associated with straightening the hair, it can be used to create a wide range of hairstyles, including those with a flicked out look. Apart from the flicked out ends, a flat iron can be used to create sleek and straight hairstyles, voluminous waves, or even tight curls. Its versatility allows you to experiment and switch up your style depending on your mood or the occasion. Techniques for creating a flicked out look Preparation Before using a flat iron to create a flicked out look, it is essential to prepare your hair properly. Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products suitable for your hair type. Towel dry your hair gently and apply a heat protectant spray to minimize damage from the heat. Brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots, ensuring an even distribution of the product. Choosing the right flat iron Selecting the right flat iron is crucial for achieving a successful flicked out look. Look for a flat iron with ceramic plates, as they distribute heat evenly and protect the hair from excessive damage. Opt for a flat iron with adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to customize the heat according to your hair type and desired result. Consider the size of the plates; wider plates work well for longer hair, while narrower plates are ideal for shorter hair or adding details to specific sections. Sectioning the hair To ensure an organized and efficient styling process, section your hair before using the flat iron. Use hair clips or elastics to divide your hair into manageable sections, starting from the bottom and working your way up. This prevents any missed or uneven areas while straightening and flicking out the ends. Sectioning also allows for better control and precision during the styling process. Proper grip and movement When using the flat iron, it is essential to maintain a proper grip and movement to achieve the desired flicked out look. Hold the flat iron with a firm but gentle grip, ensuring it is perpendicular to the hair shaft. Clamp the flat iron close to the roots and glide it down to the ends while simultaneously angling the iron outwards to create the flick. Smooth and fluid movements are key to achieving a seamless and natural-looking flick. Temperature and heat protection Finding the right temperature for your hair type is crucial to prevent damage while using a flat iron. Fine or damaged hair should be styled with a lower heat setting, while coarse or thick hair may require a higher temperature. Start with a lower heat setting and gradually increase if needed, always keeping in mind the health of your hair. In addition to minimizing heat damage, using a heat protectant spray is essential to shield the hair from the direct heat of the flat iron. Adding finishing touches To enhance the overall look of your flicked out hairstyle, you can add finishing touches such as hair spray, shine serum, or texturizing products. A lightweight hairspray will help hold the flicked out ends in place, while a shine serum can add a glossy and polished finish. Texturizing products, such as sea salt sprays or hair waxes, can be used to create a more tousled and textured flicked out look. Step-by-step process Preparing the hair Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products suitable for your hair type. Towel dry your hair gently and apply a heat protectant spray to minimize damage from the heat. Brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots and ensure an even distribution of the product. Sectioning the hair Divide your hair into manageable sections using hair clips or elastics. Start from the bottom and work your way up, securing the remaining hair to prevent any interference while styling the sections. Proper sectioning ensures a smooth and efficient styling process. Straightening with a flat iron Take a section of hair and clamp the flat iron close to the roots. Slowly glide the flat iron down the hair shaft, maintaining a firm but gentle grip. Continue straightening the section until the hair is sleek and straight. Repeat this process for each section, working your way from the bottom to the top of your head. Creating the flicked out ends Once the hair is straightened, it is time to create the flicked out ends. Clamp the flat iron close to the ends of the hair section and glide it downwards. While doing so, angle the flat iron outwards to create the desired flick. Remember to maintain a smooth and fluid movement while creating the flicked out ends. Blending and styling After completing the flicked out ends on all sections, gently run your fingers or a wide-toothed comb through your hair to blend and soften any harsh lines. This helps the flicked out ends seamlessly blend with the rest of your hairstyle. If desired, you can further style your hair using products like hairspray, shine serum, or texturizing sprays for the perfect finishing touch. Tips and tricks Using heat protectant Always use a heat protectant spray or serum before using a flat iron to minimize heat damage. This creates a barrier between your hair and the direct heat of the flat iron, keeping your hair healthier and more resilient. Choosing the right temperature Finding the right temperature for your hair type is essential to prevent heat damage. Start with a lower heat setting and gradually increase if needed. Fine or damaged hair typically requires lower temperatures, while coarse or thick hair may need higher temperatures for effective straightening. Experimenting with different techniques Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques to achieve your desired flicked out look. Vary the angle at which you angle the flat iron, the size of the sections, or even the direction in which you create the flick to create unique and customized styles. Adding products for hold and texture To maximize the longevity of your flicked out look, consider using products that provide hold and texture. A lightweight hairspray can help keep the flicked out ends in place, while texturizing sprays or waxes can add volume and texture to your hairstyle. Maintaining the flicked out look Avoiding excessive heat Minimize the use of heat styling tools, including a flat iron, to prevent excessive heat damage to your hair. Air drying your hair or using non-heat styling methods from time to time can help maintain the health and resilience of your hair. Using a silk or satin pillowcase Switching to a silk or satin pillowcase can help reduce friction and prevent hair breakage while you sleep. These smooth fabrics allow your hair to glide against the pillow without causing unnecessary frizz or damage to your flicked out hairstyle. Protecting from humidity Humidity can cause your flicked out hairstyle to lose its shape and become frizzy. Consider using anti-humidity hair products or applying a layer of serum or oil to protect your hair from excessive moisture in the air. Refresh and restyle To keep your flicked out look fresh, you can use a flat iron to touch up any areas that may have lost their shape or volume. Additionally, brushing through your hair, applying a lightweight texturizing spray, or rearranging the flicked out ends can help refresh your hairstyle. Can a flat iron damage hair? Understanding heat damage Excessive and prolonged heat exposure from styling tools like a flat iron can cause heat damage to your hair. This can lead to dryness, brittleness, split ends, and overall weakened hair strands. It is important to use a flat iron correctly and take steps to prevent heat damage. Preventing damage during flat ironing To minimize heat damage while using a flat iron, ensure that you are using a heat protectant spray or serum before styling. Adjust the temperature settings to suit your hair type, starting with a lower heat setting and increasing as needed. Limit the frequency of flat ironing sessions and give your hair regular breaks from heat styling. Taking care of the hair Aside from taking preventive measures while using a flat iron, it is important to maintain a healthy hair care routine to protect your hair from damage. This includes using nourishing hair products, regular deep conditioning treatments, minimizing the use of heat styling tools, and protecting your hair from environmental factors such as excessive sun exposure and harsh weather conditions. Alternatives to using a flat iron Other heat styling tools While a flat iron is commonly used to create a flicked out look, there are other heat styling tools that can also achieve similar results. Curling irons, curling wands, and hot rollers can be used to add a flicked out effect to the ends of your hair. These tools offer different methods of manipulation and can provide varied textures and styles. Non-heat methods If you prefer to limit the use of heat styling tools, there are non-heat methods that can create a flicked out look. These include techniques such as overnight braids or twists, using hair rollers, or employing styling products specifically designed to add texture and movement to the hair. Experimenting with these methods can offer you an alternative approach to achieve the flicked out look without relying solely on a flat iron. Conclusion A flat iron can indeed be used to create a flicked out look, providing you with a versatile and playful hairstyle. By following proper techniques such as preparation, sectioning, grip and movement, temperature control, and finishing touches, you can achieve a flicked out look that suits your style and hair type. Remember to take precautions to prevent heat damage and explore alternative methods if you prefer to minimize the use of heat styling tools. With a little practice and the right tools and techniques, you can confidently rock a fabulous flicked out hairstyle.