©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial Education1 Cosmetology Thermal Hairstyling

©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial EducationCosmetology I: Thermal Hairstyling2 What are thermal irons? Thermal Irons temporarily add curl to hair Thermal Irons were introduced by Marcel Grateau in 1875 Today, thermal irons are often called “ Marcel Curling Irons ” Thermal curling is achieved by applying a heated iron to dry hair by an electric curling iron of a marcel iron that is heated in a stove.

©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial EducationCosmetology I: Thermal Hairstyling3 Parts of a curling iron Rod handle Shell handle Barrel or rod: the round heating cylinder. Groove or shell: the clamp that holds the hair against the barrel. Swivel: electric irons have a swivel at the base of the handle that allows the electric cord to turn as it is being manipulated.

©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial EducationCosmetology I: Thermal Hairstyling4 Qualities of a good curling iron Thermal irons are made of quality steel so they will hold an even temperature and give the best performance.

©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial EducationCosmetology I: Thermal Hairstyling5 Curling irons: Sizes & Shapes The various sizes of shapes and sizes of irons allows versatility in styling such as straightening with a flat iron, making zig zag patterns or crimps.

©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial EducationCosmetology I: Thermal Hairstyling6 Electric curling irons Electric curling irons have a heating element with a controlled thermostat that allows the iron to maintain a constant temperature A good electric iron should be able to be left on for a long period and maintain the correct temperature. SAFETY: The electric curling iron should be tested on a tissue paper. After being heated, if the iron scorches the tissue paper it will burn the hair.

©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial EducationCosmetology I: Thermal Hairstyling7 Marcel curling irons Marcel irons are heated in a stove SAFETY: The temperature of a marcel iron must be tested on a tissue paper. After being heated, if the iron scorches the tissue paper it will burn the hair. SAFETY: Fine, lightened and damaged hair are able to withstand less heat than healthy hair. Always be aware of the client’s hair texture when performing a thermal curling service.

©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial EducationCosmetology I: Thermal Hairstyling8 Care of curling irons Always keep irons clean and free from rust and carbon. Washing the irons in a soap solution containing a few drops of ammonia will remove dirt and grease. Rust and carbon can be removed with fine sandpaper, or steel wool with a little oil. This procedure will also polish the iron. Take care not to overheat the irons. New irons are tempered in the factory, and overheating them will cause them to lose their temper and become ruined.

©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial EducationCosmetology I: Thermal Hairstyling9 Curling iron: Proper holding Practice each method to determine which one is the most comfort and control. Practice turning the iron in a downward circular motion. You will have to shift your thumb to help in the turning motion. Do not move or sway the iron while rolling; all movement is done with the fingers.

©2003 Texas Trade and Industrial EducationCosmetology I: Thermal Hairstyling10 Exercise using a cold iron Start with the iron on top of the hair strand. When making the curl, rotate the iron one half- turn and then one full turn back to starting position. Open irons slightly and slide down no more than and inch, then clamp. Turn irons backward for a full turn toward you. Return irons to starting position. Release.