Hello,
I just bought this iron and the first time I used it I loved it! The second time I used it, I had more problems than I bargined for. I used the Maxtex cream that came free with a package of his rollers (I don't mean the Beyond Striaght and the Ends- this was some other stuff). My hair was sooo tangled and wouldn't go through the iron! Even after I combed each piece before putting it through the pins on the iron. My hair felt- no, feels like straw. I just haven't felt like shampooing it and starting all over since I did this yesterday.
I think that you need to comb the small section of hair before gliding it through the pins. Also, be aware of how much product you are using- start with just a little, then add more if you need it. The steam will help straighten the hair because you will use it with the hot plates, so you hair will notfrizz. Lastly, keep that pins plate clean! Wash it with mild soap and a tooth brush, all the build up will cause scorching and burning smell