Straightening natural hair requires a lot of effort and patience. But once you achieve that sleek and smooth look, it's important to take care of your hair to maintain its health and prevent damage. In this post, we'll share some tips and tricks on how to take care of straightened natural hair.
Table of Contents
- How to Straighten Natural Hair
- Hair Care Routine for Straightened Natural Hair
- Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Straightened Natural Hair
- FAQs about Straightened Natural Hair
How to Straighten Natural Hair
Straightening natural hair can be done using different methods, such as blow-drying, flat ironing, or using a chemical relaxer. Here are some tips on how to straighten natural hair:
Blow-drying
Before blow-drying, make sure to wash and condition your hair. Apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage. Divide your hair into sections and use a round brush to blow-dry your hair. Use the cool setting to set the style.
Flat Ironing
Before flat ironing, make sure your hair is clean and dry. Apply a heat protectant spray and divide your hair into sections. Use a flat iron with adjustable temperature settings and start with the lowest setting. Slowly glide the flat iron through each section of hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends.
Chemical Relaxer
A chemical relaxer alters the bonds in your hair to make it straight. It's important to follow the instructions carefully and avoid overlapping the relaxer on previously relaxed hair. After the relaxer, make sure to neutralize your hair to prevent further processing and damage.
Hair Care Routine for Straightened Natural Hair
After straightening your natural hair, it's important to take care of it to prevent damage and maintain its health. Here's a hair care routine for straightened natural hair:
Wash and Condition
Wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and condition it with a moisturizing conditioner. Avoid using hot water as it can strip your hair of its natural oils. Rinse with cool water to seal the cuticles.
Deep Condition
Once a week, do a deep conditioning treatment to nourish your hair. Apply the conditioner to your hair and cover it with a plastic cap. Use a hair dryer or a heated cap to help the conditioner penetrate your hair shaft. Rinse with cool water.
Moisturize
Use a leave-in conditioner or a moisturizing cream to keep your hair hydrated. Apply the product to your hair, focusing on the ends. Avoid applying too much product as it can weigh your hair down.
Protect
Avoid using heat styling tools too often as it can damage your hair. If you need to use them, apply a heat protectant spray first. Use a silk or satin scarf or pillowcase to protect your hair from friction and breakage.
Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Straightened Natural Hair
Here are some tips and tricks for maintaining straightened natural hair:
Avoid Touching Your Hair
Touching your hair too often can transfer oils from your hands to your hair, making it look greasy. It can also disturb the style and cause frizz.
Avoid Humidity
Humidity can cause your hair to revert back to its natural state. Avoid going out in humid weather or use a humidity-resistant product to protect your hair.
Avoid Tight Hairstyles
Tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails can cause tension on your hairline and lead to breakage. Opt for looser hairstyles or use a silk or satin scarf to protect your hairline.
FAQs about Straightened Natural Hair
Can I straighten my natural hair if it's damaged?
If your hair is severely damaged, it's best to avoid heat styling to prevent further damage. Focus on repairing your hair first before straightening it.
How often should I wash my straightened natural hair?
You can wash your hair once or twice a week, depending on your hair's needs. Avoid washing your hair too often as it can strip your hair of its natural oils.
Can I use oil on my straightened natural hair?
Avoid using heavy oils as it can weigh your hair down and make it look greasy. Use lightweight oils like argan oil or jojoba oil to add shine and moisture to your hair.
Now that you know how to take care of straightened natural hair, you can enjoy your sleek and smooth style while keeping your hair healthy and happy.
