Flat irons are handy tools that can be put to workto replace a number of older models of hair care products. Not only can a flat iron be used to straighten curly or wavy hair, it can be used to curl or wave naturally straight hair, and can also be used for the flipped look that was popular in the 1950s among beauty queens and housewives, and is becoming increasingly common in recent times due to the widespread popularity of television shows such as Mad Men.

Traditionally worn by women with shoulder length hair or chin length bobs, the hair flip can work with any length of hair, from itty bitty flips on short hair, to a curled up end on longer hair. If you are already comfortable using a flat iron, then you most likely already know how to flip hair, all it takes is a slightly different application of the same motion as using your flat iron for any other style.

1. To begin with, hair should be clean, dry, and free of excessive styling product build up.

2. Turn on the flat iron to the lowest setting that will work with your hair. Using the lowest setting possible minimizes damage to the hair.

3. Comb any tangles out of hair, and spray with a heat protection product.

4. Separate hair into manageable ‘chunks’ – working with strands about 1” wide at a time is best.

5. Beginning at the nape of the neck and working your way upward and forward as you go, slide the hot flat iron fluidly along each strand of hair until the desired effect has been reached.

6. Once all the hair has been flipped, finish the style with a light misting of hair spray.

If planning on using a flat iron on your hair regularly, special heat protection hair products should be used to prevent heat damage such as dullness and split ends. Also, a high quality flat iron with ceramic or tourmaline plates will give the nicest overall effect and will be the most gentle on your hair over the long term.