7 Steps to Straightening Natural Hair

For many women who are natural, straightening their hair is a huge task in itself. The process of combing, removing the tangles, sectioning the hair in order to straighten it etc., can take much more time than if the hair was chemically relaxed. If you are natural and considering wearing your hair straight, here are some tips for making straightening your hair a much easier experience.

1. First, only straighten your hair on a day where it’s not too humid outside. There have been times where I failed to check the weather forecast. I had my 4b hair straightened to a state of being completely bone straight and being shocked by the shine, look and length only to lose it all the moment I walked out of the salon door. And it was a day where there was no rain! So, for all you natural girls out there, do your homework. Check the humidex (how hot and humid it is outside) before spending your hard earned dollars on a style that will only last you a minute!

2. Another great tip is to use large rollers in your hair after you wash it. This will aid in sectioning your hair once it’s dry and getting it a little more stretched prior to using the hot comb or flat iron. Once it’s dry you can either choose to go straight to the hot comb or you can blow dry it first for a sleeker finish.

3. After the hair is dry, remove the large rollers and blow dry one section at a time.

4. Once you have removed the rollers from each section and your hair it’s completely blow dried, use your comb to comb through your hair and pull your blow dryer* through your hair to complete the process.

5. Pull most of your hair up and out of the way. Only leave about an inch at the back along the nape of your head. This is the area that you’ll begin with to straighten your hair.

6. Slowly start straightening your hair section by section starting at the back and then moving up. Release another inch section from the hair that has been pulled up and continue the process of straightening your hair until you have finished your entire head.

7. Be careful along your hairline as you straighten those baby hairs. It’s best to use a smaller straightening comb in this area to ensure that you do not inadvertently burn your hairline.

Once you’re done, style your hair as you choose. Use a sheen spray to add extra shine to your tresses.

Voila, you’re done!