Straightening hair incorrectly can damage it, so knowing how to protect it while straightening is essential. Here are some techniques to ensure salon-like results without causing lasting damage to your locks.
Section 1: Cleansing Your Hair
– Start by thoroughly cleansing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo.
– Look for a straightening shampoo that contains nourishing ingredients like keratin.
– Use a DIY straightening mask made with full-fat milk and honey once weekly to hydrate your hair.
Section 2: Preparing Your hair for Straightening
– Cleansing your hair before straightening removes dirt and makes the straightening process easier.
– Use a sulfate-free shampoo and hydrating conditioner with moisture lock capabilities.
– Apply a heat protection spray on roots and mid-lengths.
– Avoid heat protectants with added oils.
– Mist your hair with hairspray for a sleek style.
Section 3: Applying a Heat Protectant
– Always use a heat protectant before straightening to reduce damage.
– Choose a heat protectant with a high smoke point, such as shea butter or coconut oil.
– Apply the heat protectant section by section before using a flat iron.
Section 4: Dividing Your Hair into Sections
– Section your hair correctly for professional-looking results.
– Create a center part and secure the top layer into sections using claw clips.
– Work with small sections to ensure effective straightening and avoid over-straightening.
Section 5: Checking Your Work
– Use flat irons on dry hair to avoid chemical reactions and re-frizzing.
– If needed, blow dry wet hair before straightening.
– Check your work in a mirror to ensure even and thorough straightening.
– Work on smaller sections at once for easier styling.
