The TYME iron is a unique hair styling tool designed to function as both a curling iron and a straightener. Its distinctive angled plates and gold-plated surfaces allow users to create a variety of styles, from tight curls to beachy waves and sleek, straight looks. While the tool is highly effective, it does come with a specific technique that differs from traditional irons.
Understanding how to manipulate the tool is the key to achieving professional results at home. This guide will walk you through the preparation, the specific movements required for curling, and how to maintain your tool for long-lasting performance. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your technique, these steps will help you master your styling routine.
Understanding the TYME Iron Design
Before you begin styling, it is important to understand why this iron looks different from a standard flat iron. The plates are angled and the body is curved, which is what allows it to create curls without the need for a clamp or a rotating barrel. One side of the iron is rounded, while the other is flat, acting as a guide for your hair as it passes through the heat.
The design relies on the “cool-down” effect. As your hair passes over the curved outer shell, it sets the curl in place almost instantly. This helps the style last longer than it might with traditional tools that apply heat without a structured cooling path.
Preparing Your Hair for Styling
Proper preparation is the foundation of any great hairstyle. Using a high-quality tool on unprepared hair can lead to frizz or heat damage. Follow these steps to ensure your hair is ready for the heat.
- Start with Dry Hair: Never use the iron on wet or damp hair. This can cause the moisture in the hair shaft to boil, leading to significant damage known as “bubble hair.”
- Apply Heat Protectant: Always mist your hair with a heat protectant spray. This creates a barrier between the plates and your hair strands, preserving shine and health.
- Detangle Completely: Brush through your hair to remove all knots. Tangles can cause the iron to snag, resulting in uneven curls or breakage.
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections. Using clips to separate the top, middle, and bottom layers will make the process much faster and more organized.
The Core Technique: The “Motorcycle” Grip
The most common challenge for new users is the hand placement. The brand often refers to the proper movement as the “motorcycle” grip. This involves a specific rotation of the wrist that guides the hair over the curved edge of the iron.
How to Hold the Iron
Hold the iron with your thumb on the side with the power button. When you prepare to curl, your palm should be facing the mirror. As you close the iron on a section of hair, you will rotate your wrist backward, similar to how you would rev a motorcycle engine.
The Path of the Hair
For the best results, the hair should always be guided toward the mirror. If you pull the iron toward the back of your head, the angle of the plates will not be able to create the tension necessary for a curl. Keep your movements steady and directed forward.
Step-by-Step Guide to Curling
Once you have mastered the grip, you can begin curling your sections. Consistency is the most important factor when learning this new motion.
- Select a Section: Take a one-inch vertical section of hair. Vertical sections create more natural, spiral-like curls, while horizontal sections create more volume at the root.
- Position the Iron: Place the iron near the root of the hair. Ensure the curved side of the iron is facing the mirror.
- Rotate and Glide: Close the plates and immediately rotate your wrist back (the motorcycle motion). Maintain a light grip—squeezing too hard will prevent the hair from gliding smoothly.
- Guide the Hair: Slowly pull the iron forward toward the mirror. The hair should slide through the plates and over the curved cooling surface.
- Let it Cool: Once the hair is released, let the curl sit for a few seconds before touching it. This allows the shape to set completely.
How to Straighten with the TYME Iron
While the iron is famous for its curling capabilities, it is also an excellent straightener. The high-quality plates ensure a smooth finish with plenty of shine. The technique for straightening is much simpler than curling but still requires attention to detail.
To straighten, simply hold the iron horizontally. Place a section of hair between the plates and glide the iron straight down from root to tip. Because the plates are designed to create tension, you usually only need one pass to achieve a sleek look. Avoid rotating your wrist, as any tilt will begin to introduce a wave or curl into the hair.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
If you are not getting the results you want, you are likely making one of a few common errors. Adjusting these small details can make a significant difference in your styling outcome.
Squeezing Too Hard
Many users instinctively squeeze the iron shut as hard as possible. This creates too much friction, preventing the hair from sliding. Use just enough pressure to keep the hair in contact with the plates. If the iron is “chattering” or jumping as you pull, lighten your grip.
Moving Too Fast
If your curls are falling out immediately, you may be moving the iron too quickly. The hair needs enough time to absorb the heat and then cool over the curve. Try slowing down your glide to about one inch per second.
Wrong Starting Position
If you start with the iron upside down, the hair will not pass over the curved cooling side. Always double-check that your thumb is near the power button and your palm is facing the mirror before you begin the rotation.
Maintenance and Care for Your Tool
To keep your styling iron performing at its best, you must keep the plates clean. Over time, hairspray and heat protectant products can build up on the gold-plated surfaces. This buildup causes snagging and uneven heat distribution.
Wait for the iron to cool completely before cleaning. Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to wipe down the plates. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as these can damage the plating. Storing the iron in a heat-resistant sleeve will also protect the plates from scratches when not in use.
Conclusion
Mastering the TYME iron takes a bit of patience, but the reward is a fast, versatile styling routine that lasts all day. By focusing on the “motorcycle” grip and ensuring your hair is properly prepared, you can achieve salon-quality results at home. Remember that practice is essential; don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. With a steady hand and the right angle, you will soon be able to create any look you desire. For more tips on hair care and styling technology, explore our other guides on professional beauty tools and home salon techniques.