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@ellabalinska

Havingtextured hairis basically a superpower.

It allows you to transform (your hair, that is).

Ella Balinska with straightened hair

@ellabalinska

The key to unlocking textured strands' supernatural ability is simply a matter of TLC.

Condition, Detangle, and Section

The manual for having curly hair calls for alotof conditioning.

“Textured hair actually has a different structure to it and is usually dry,” says Aronson.

Back view of freshly washed curly hair

BRENDNETTA ASHLEY

Without proper conditioning, the hair is prone to snapping, she warns.

“Allow your conditioning mask to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing,” she advises.

Those extra hours will leave your strands smooth and protected before you begin to apply heat.

BlondMe Shampoo

Tackling one section at a time, you want to spray a generous amount of heat protectant.

Ashley recommends BlondMe’sBlonde Wonders Glaze Mistto both seal in shine and protect against heat.

You’ll want to apply your protectant beforeanyheat app, blow dryers included.

Condition and detangle the hair, then section the entire head into four quadrants.

BRENDNETTA ASHLEY

Dry Your Hair

It’s time to begin your blow-dry.

Ashley advises staying at a medium heat setting to keep the hair protected.

(Remember: Avoiding heat damage is our number one priority.)

Apply A Heat Protectant

BRENDNETTA ASHLEY

You’ll also want to have a straightening brush on hand.

“Insert your comb,” instructs Ashley, “then place your flat iron behind the comb.

“Slow and steady will give the best results,” says Ashley.

Blow dry the hair with a nozzle and brush

BRENDNETTA ASHLEY

“And be sure to use a protective serum or spray before ironing the hair again.”

Denman Straightening Brush

Use a small flat iron at the roots

BRENDNETTA ASHLEY

Use a heat-resistant comb alongside your flat iron

BRENDNETTA ASHLEY

Once smooth and straight, finish your style as desired

BRENDNETTA ASHLEY