Curly hair is beautiful and unique, but there may be times when you desire a straighter look. While chemical straightening treatments are available, many people prefer to achieve straight hair naturally to avoid potential damage. In this article, we will explore several effective and natural methods to straighten curly hair.
Blow Drying with a Round Brush
One of the most common and accessible ways to straighten curly hair at home is by using a blow dryer with a round brush. Here’s how to do it:
Start with freshly washed and towel-dried hair. Apply a heat protectant spray evenly throughout your hair. This is crucial as it helps to minimize heat damage.
Divide your hair into sections. You can use clips to separate the top, sides, and back of your head. Working with smaller sections makes it easier to control and straighten each strand.
Take a section of hair and place the round brush at the roots. As you turn on the blow dryer and direct the heat towards the hair, slowly pull the brush downwards, following the length of the strand. The tension created by the brush and the heat from the blow dryer helps to smooth out the curls.
Keep the blow dryer moving continuously to avoid overheating any particular area. Repeat this process for each section of hair until your entire head is dry and straightened.
Flat Ironing
Using a flat iron is another popular method for achieving straight hair. However, it requires some caution to prevent damage.
Ensure your hair is completely dry before using a flat iron. Wet or even damp hair is more susceptible to heat damage.
Apply a high-quality heat protectant serum or spray. This forms a protective barrier on the hair shaft.
Section your hair as you did for blow drying. Take a small section, about 1 – 2 inches wide, and clamp the flat iron near the roots. Slowly glide the flat iron down the length of the hair, maintaining a steady pace and applying gentle pressure. Do not hold the flat iron in one place for too long as it can cause burns or breakage.
After straightening each section, allow the hair to cool before styling further. You can use a light hairspray to set the straightened style.
Rollers and Setting Lotion
Rollers and setting lotion can also be used to achieve a straighter look with a more natural finish.
Wash and condition your hair. While it is still damp, apply a setting lotion. This helps to hold the hair in place as it dries.
Choose the appropriate size of rollers. Larger rollers will create a looser, more natural wave or straight look, while smaller rollers will give a tighter curl. Roll sections of hair onto the rollers, starting from the ends and rolling towards the roots.
Allow your hair to air dry completely or use a blow dryer on a low heat setting to speed up the process. Once the hair is dry, carefully remove the rollers. You may need to use a comb or your fingers to gently separate and smooth the hair for a more straightened appearance.
Braiding
Braiding is a simple yet effective natural method to straighten curly hair, especially for those who want a more relaxed and wavy-straight look.
Start with damp hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner or a small amount of styling cream to add moisture and help with manageability.
Divide your hair into multiple sections, depending on how thick your hair is. The more sections, the finer the waves or straighter the result. Braid each section tightly from the roots to the ends.
Let your hair dry completely while in the braids. This can take several hours or overnight. Once dry, carefully unbraid the hair. You will notice that your curls have been stretched and straightened into loose waves. You can use a flat iron or a blow dryer with a diffuser to further smooth the waves if desired.
Using Natural Oils and Heat
Some natural oils can help in straightening curly hair when combined with heat. Coconut oil and argan oil are popular choices.
Take a small amount of coconut oil or argan oil and warm it between your palms. Apply it evenly to your dry hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. The oil helps to add shine and protect the hair from heat.
Use a blow dryer with a nozzle attachment. Direct the heat downwards along the length of the hair while using a comb or your fingers to smooth the strands. The heat and the oil work together to relax the curls and make the hair straighter.
If needed, you can follow up with a flat iron on a low to medium heat setting to achieve a sleeker look. But remember to always use a heat protectant before using any heat styling tools.
Silk or Satin Pillowcases and Hair Wrapping
Although this method may not straighten hair instantly like the others, it can help to maintain straightened hair and reduce frizz over time.
Switch to a silk or satin pillowcase. Cotton pillowcases can cause friction, which leads to frizz and can disrupt the straightened style. Silk and satin are smoother surfaces that allow the hair to glide, reducing frizz and maintaining the straightness.
At night, after straightening your hair, wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf. This helps to keep the hair in place and further protects it from getting tangled or frizzy while you sleep. Over time, you will notice that your straightened hair lasts longer and looks smoother.
DIY Hair Masks for Straightening
You can make homemade hair masks that can assist in straightening curly hair over time. One example is a banana and honey hair mask.
Mash a ripe banana and mix it with a tablespoon of honey. Add a small amount of olive oil if your hair is dry. The banana contains potassium and other nutrients that can help to soften and straighten the hair, while honey adds moisture and shine.
Apply the mask evenly to your clean, damp hair. Leave it on for 30 – 60 minutes. Rinse it out thoroughly with warm water and then shampoo and condition as usual.
Repeat this process once or twice a week for several weeks to notice a difference in the texture and straightness of your hair.
Avoiding Humidity and Protecting from Environmental Factors
Humidity is the enemy of straight hair. To keep your straightened curls at bay, it’s important to take some precautions.
Use an anti-humidity hairspray. These products help to create a barrier on the hair, preventing moisture from the air from affecting the straightened style. Apply it after straightening your hair and throughout the day if needed.
Wear a hat or use an umbrella when going out in humid weather. This can physically protect your hair from the moisture in the air and help to maintain the straight look for longer.
Avoid activities that may cause excessive sweating, as sweat can also make the hair revert back to its curly state. If you do sweat, try to blot the moisture gently with a towel and use a dry shampoo to absorb any excess oil.
Conclusion
There are numerous natural ways to straighten curly hair, each with its own benefits and considerations. Whether you choose to use heat styling tools with proper protection, natural oils, or other DIY methods, it’s important to take care of your hair’s health. Experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for you and gives you the desired straight hair look while keeping your locks strong, shiny, and beautiful. Remember, consistency and proper hair care are key to achieving and maintaining straightened curly hair naturally.
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How To Make Curly Hair Straight Naturally Forever
How To Keep Naturally Curly Hair Straight After Straightening