How to Achieve Silky Straight Hair: A Comprehensive Guide
Whether your hair is thick and curly or just naturally wavy, achieving silky, straight hair can be a bit of a challenge. However, with the right techniques and products, you can manage your curly and thick hair to achieve the straight look you desire. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to straighten your hair, ensuring minimal damage and maximum shine.
Shampooing Thick and Curly Hair Prior to Straightening
Starting with a clean canvas is crucial when it comes to straightening curly and thick hair. Begin by washing your hair with a gentle shampoo and conditioner to remove any dirt and product build-up. Opt for shiny, sulfate-free products that are rich in glycerin, as glycerin helps reduce frizz by hydrating hair from the inside out. Look for products with glycerin near the top of the ingredient list to ensure its presence in the formulation.
When rinsing the conditioner, use a paddle brush to comb through your hair. This helps in smoothening your hair while it's still wet. This step is particularly important as it can significantly impact the final look of your straightened hair. Additionally, if your hair is particularly dry, co-washing - washing your hair with only conditioner - can be beneficial. Co-washing helps replenish the natural moisture that shampoo can remove, making your hair more manageable for straightening.
After shampooing, gently pat your hair dry with a towel instead of rubbing. Towel drying should be gentle and done downward to promote straightening. Allow your hair to dry about 90% of the way before blow-drying. Over-drying your hair using a high heat setting can cause frizz and damage. Instead, alternate the dryer between hot and low settings, and always point the dryer downwards from the roots to reduce frizz.
Drying and Styling for Straight Hair
Completely drying your hair before straightening is crucial. When your hair is completely dry, it will likely appear larger and frizzier than usual. This is completely normal and will diminish once you start straightening. To avoid frizz, alternate the dryer between hot and low settings, and always point the dryer downwards. This method promotes natural straightening and prevents frizz.
Select the right straightener for your hair type. If your hair is thick and curly, opt for gold or titanium plates over ceramic ones. Your flat iron should be 1.5 inches or less to allow for easy access to the roots. Ensure your flat iron can reach a temperature between 380 to 410 degrees, which is ideal for thick and curly hair. Always use a straightener with an automatic shut-off feature for added safety.
Before straightening, tie the top section of your hair into a bun and start straightening the bottom part in sections. Press the flat iron down from the root to the tip, and once you've finished one section, unravel the top and straighten in sections. This method helps to distribute the heat evenly and reduce frizz. Turn off your straightener after each use and avoid running it over the same section multiple times. If your hair doesn't achieve the desired straightness after the first attempt, increase the heat setting by 10 to 30 degrees and continue.
For a more manageable hair style, consider straightening your hair before bed and touching up the next morning. The natural straightening effect from a good night's sleep will reduce frizz from previous styling efforts. To finish, use a brush and a straightening or shine serum. Ensure that any spray or serum you use lacks silicones and sulfates, as these can weigh down your hair. Keep a touch-up serum on hand for rainy days or to address flyaways.
Professional Keratin-Treatment for Straight Hair
For those who are tired of daily straightening methods, a professional keratin treatment can be a game-changer. This expensive yet effective treatment can tame the thickest and curliest of locks. The results can last until your chemically treated hair grows out and are generally impressive.
When booking a professional keratin treatment, set aside at least 3 hours as the procedure can be lengthy and time-consuming, depending on the length and thickness of your hair. Knowing you'll need to visit your stylist to maintain the treatment frequently upon regrowth, consider the costs and time involved. Be prepared for your hair to not hold a curl post-treatment, as this can sometimes result in a lifeless look.
Maintaining your straightened hair after a keratin treatment is essential. Most salons will offer follow-up treatments, which are generally less time-consuming and less expensive. Continue to visit your stylist to keep your roots straightened and prevent damage. In addition to salon treatments, invest in drugstore brands that are silicone-based to reduce frizz. These work just as well as expensive salon products but are gentler on your hair and pocket.