Curly hair has a unique structure. The shape of the hair follicle determines the curl pattern. Oval follicles produce wavy hair, while more elliptical or kidney – shaped follicles result in curlier or coily hair. This structure makes curly hair more prone to dryness. The natural oils produced by the scalp have a harder time traveling down the curved hair shaft, often leaving the ends dry. Understanding your specific curl pattern, whether it’s loose waves, tight curls, or coils, is the first step in straightening your hair naturally.
Pre – straightening Preparation
Tools You Need
Wide – Tooth Comb: Essential for detangling wet hair gently. Starting from the ends and working your way up, it helps prevent breakage.
Microfiber Towel or T – Shirt: These are much gentler than regular towels. They absorb moisture without roughing up the hair cuticle, reducing frizz.
Paddle Brush: Used for smoothing the hair during the straightening process. It helps in distributing the products evenly and gives a sleek look.
Products for Curly Hair
Sulphate – Free Shampoo and Conditioner: Sulphates can strip the hair of its natural oils. Using a shampoo and conditioner formulated for curly hair helps in maintaining moisture. Apply the conditioner from mid – length to the ends and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.
Leave – In Conditioner: After washing your hair, apply a leave – in conditioner. It provides an extra layer of moisture, making the hair more manageable and less likely to frizz during the straightening process.
Natural Oils: Oils like coconut oil, argan oil, and olive oil can be used as pre – treatment. Warm a small amount of oil in your hands and apply it to your hair, focusing on the ends. This helps in sealing in moisture and protecting the hair from damage.
Natural Straightening Methods
Combing Wet Hair
After washing your hair, let it air dry a bit. Then, start gently combing your hair every few minutes. Use a wide – tooth comb and work from the ends to the roots. Pull and hold sections of hair to encourage straightness. This method helps to stretch the hair as it dries, gradually straightening the curls. However, be very gentle as wet hair is more fragile and can break easily.
Milk Mask
A milk mask can be an effective way to straighten curly hair naturally. First, comb your hair to detangle it. Then, warm some milk (you can use whole milk or skim milk). Apply the milk to each strand of your hair, making sure to cover all areas. Comb your hair again to ensure the milk is evenly distributed. Let the milk dry in your hair before washing it out. While it may not make your hair completely straight, it can significantly reduce the curl and make your hair more manageable. You can use this mask every few days for best results.
Flaxseed Mask
To make a flaxseed mask, you need flax seeds and hibiscus flowers. Boil these two ingredients together in water. Once it has boiled for a while, strain the mixture through a fine – mesh strainer. Let the resulting gel – like substance cool down. Apply this mask to your hair, starting from the roots and working your way down to the ends. Leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing it out. The flaxseed mask not only helps in straightening the hair but also provides nourishment and shine.
Essential Oils
Certain essential oils can help in taming curly hair and making it appear straighter. Oils like coconut oil, argan oil, and almond oil are great choices. These oils can penetrate the hair shaft, sealing in moisture and repairing damaged cells. Warm a few drops of your chosen oil in your hands and apply it to your hair. Massage it into your scalp and distribute it evenly throughout the hair. You can leave it on for a few hours or overnight for a deep – conditioning treatment.
Apple Cider Vinegar Wash
Apple cider vinegar can be used to straighten hair naturally while also adding shine. Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a cup of water. Pour this mixture into a spray bottle. After washing your hair, spray the apple cider vinegar solution all over your hair, focusing on the mid – length and ends. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out with warm water. This method can help in closing the hair cuticle, making the hair smoother and less frizzy.
Tying Hair in a Ponytail
After washing your hair, let it air dry until it’s almost dry. Then, make a tight ponytail, positioning it slightly lower on your head. If you have any stray hairs or bangs, use hairpins to straighten them. Comb the hair in the ponytail to get rid of any tangles. You can add more rubber bands to the ponytail, leaving a small gap between each one. Leave the ponytail in overnight. In the morning, when you take out the ponytail, your hair will have a straighter look.
Post – straightening Care
Moisturizing
Even after straightening your hair naturally, it’s important to keep it moisturized. Use a leave – in conditioner or a hair oil regularly. Apply a deep – conditioning mask once a week to keep the hair hydrated and healthy. This helps in maintaining the straight look and prevents the hair from reverting back to its curly state too quickly.
Avoiding Heat
Since you’ve chosen to straighten your hair naturally, try to avoid using heat – styling tools like flat irons and curling irons. Heat can damage the hair and undo all the good work of natural straightening methods. If you need to style your hair further, opt for heat – free methods like braiding or using hair rollers.
Protecting Your Hair
Wear a hat or a scarf when going out in the sun or in windy conditions. This protects your hair from environmental damage and helps in keeping it straight. Also, avoid brushing your hair too much as over – brushing can cause frizz and make the hair curly again. Use a wide – tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair gently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, straightening curly hair naturally is a journey that requires patience and consistency. By understanding the unique structure of your curly hair, preparing the right tools and products, using natural straightening methods, and providing proper post – straightening care, you can achieve the sleek, straight hair you desire while keeping your locks healthy. Each method may work differently for different individuals, so feel free to experiment and find the combination that suits your hair type and lifestyle best. Remember, the goal is not just to change the appearance of your hair but also to enhance its overall health and beauty.
Related topics:
How to Straighten Curly Hair Naturally
How To Straighten Curly Hair Without Chemicals
How To Straighten Curly Hair Without Frizz
