Hair straighteners have revolutionized the world of personal styling, making sleek, straight hair an easy, at-home reality. But while these hot tools are undeniably convenient, using them the wrong way can lead to severe damage—think dryness, breakage, and dullness.

Whether you’re new to straightening or a seasoned pro, understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing the right technique. Here are the seven biggest "don'ts" you need to watch out for when using a hair straightener.

1. Skipping Heat Protection

Using a straightener without a heat protectant is one of the most damaging habits. High temperatures strip moisture from your strands, leaving them dry and brittle. Always spritz on a heat protectant spray or apply a serum before styling to create a protective shield.

2. Straightening Wet or Damp Hair

This is a big no-no. Applying heat to wet hair causes it to sizzle—literally—leading to breakage and frizz. Make sure your hair is completely dry before straightening. If you're in a rush, at least blow-dry thoroughly before using your flat iron.

3. Using the Highest Heat Setting

It might be tempting to crank up the heat for quicker results, but this can do more harm than good. High temperatures can fade hair colour and rob your hair of its natural shine. Adjust the heat based on your hair type: lower settings for fine or damaged hair, and moderate ones for thicker strands.

4. Skipping Hair Sectioning

Not dividing your hair into sections often leads to uneven straightening and wasted effort. Work in small, manageable sections for a more polished, professional look. It also ensures every strand gets the right amount of heat—no more, no less.

5. Going Over the Same Spot Repeatedly

Running your straightener over the same piece of hair multiple times increases the risk of heat damage. If done correctly, one or two slow passes should be enough. Keep your movements steady and controlled.

6. Straightening Too Frequently

Daily straightening puts a lot of stress on your hair, leading to long-term damage. Try to limit usage to once or twice a week. On off days, embrace your natural texture or use heatless styling methods to give your strands a break.

7. Working Against Hair Growth

Straightening your hair in the opposite direction of its natural fall can cause tangles and uneven results. Always move your flat iron from root to tip, following the natural flow of your hair. This not only reduces friction but also delivers smoother, shinier results.

By keeping these simple tips in mind, you can enjoy beautifully straight hair without compromising its health. After all, the key to great styling is not just how it looks today—but how it holds up tomorrow.