When you apply conditioner to your hair, start at the ends of your hair and apply up to the middle of your hair – you want to avoid applying conditioner to your roots. Then, take a wide tooth comb and run it through your hair to detangle it. This will make the combing process easier when you get out of the shower because curly hair can tangle easily. Then, allow the conditioner to sit in your hair for a few minutes before you rinse it out. When your are in the shower, use lukewarm water to wash your hair. Hot water can damage the cuticles in your hair and will result in dry or frizzy hair. When you have washed all of the soap and conditioner out of your hair, give it a quick rinse with cold water. This will add shine to your hair and help flatten it out. [2] X Research source
If you combed your hair while in the shower, this process should be a lot easier. If your hair is still very tangled, consider spraying a detangler through your hair before you comb through it. You may also decide not to comb your hair again. Instead, use your finger to break up the curls. Skipping the second combing could help reduce frizz.
If you are looking for a natural product, look for 1 that contains argan oil – this is especially good for thick or coarse hair. Try to avoid using products with silicone as these can weigh your hair down, making it look flat (if that is the look you are going for that is fine, but if you want some volume then avoid these products). [4] X Research source
Use hair clips to hold your hair out of the way until you’re ready to do that section. As you finish a section of your hair, let another layer of your hair down and twist the rest back up. Continue to separate sections like this until you have let down all of your hair.
Make sure you point the nozzle down when you are blow drying your hair. Avoid sticking it underneath your hair and pointing it upwards as this can create frizziness in your hair. [7] X Research source After drying, apply an oil or cream (like argan oil or coconut oil) to your hair and comb it out so you make sure it spreads out completely. This will keep your hair from becoming damaged. [8] X Expert Source Christine GeorgeMaster Hair Stylist & Colorist Expert Interview. 10 January 2020.
Use hair clips to hold your hair up until you’re ready to get to that section.
Titanium straighteners are also great for someone who straightens their hair often. This type of straightener withstands ultra high heat and corrosion, so it will last a long time. [10] X Research source Use a straightener that is at most an inch and a half. Bigger straighteners are good for styling, but they will make the straightening process difficult. When it comes to flat irons, don’t be afraid to spend a little more to invest in a great iron. A good iron can last you for years, so try to avoid spending $15 on a flat iron. Also, never use a flat iron with plastic plates or plain metal. These don’t distribute heat well and will take you extra time to straighten your hair.
When straightening your hair, try to only run the straightener through a strand of hair once. This is why tension is key, because the tighter you pull your hair, the faster it will straighten. If your hair is sizzling while you are straightening it, this could mean that you haven’t completely dried it. Take the blow dryer and completely dry your hair before you straighten it again. If you are able, use a lower heat setting on your flat iron. The highest settings are really designed for salon professionals, and can damage your hair if you don’t properly protect it. Aim to stay between 300 and 350 degrees. [12] X Research source Sometimes it is helpful to chase your flat iron after a comb. Take a comb and start at the roots of your hair. Gently run the comb down your hair and as you do so, follow the comb with your straightener. This can just help keep your hair flat and tangle free as you straighten it. [13] X Research source
Use dry shampoo when it starts getting oily. If you want to wear your hair straight for a few days without having to wash it and repeat the process, apply dry shampoo to your roots when they start to look oily. You can also use baby powder to remove any oil or shine. Avoid getting your hair wet. Because curly hair will easily kink back up if exposed to water, try to avoid humidity or water. When taking a shower, pin your hair up with clips and then wrap it in a towel or shower cap to keep excess humidity out. Touch it up every so often. If you are wearing your hair straight for a few days, it’s likely going to frizz up a little bit and it may begin to shape back into curls. To prevent this from happening, run a straightener through your hair every day or so, focusing on the problem areas. You don’t need to completely straighten all of your hair or pin it up in sections – just straighten the top layer or any pieces that are starting to curl. Continue to apply serum to your hair. Serum can help smooth hair and will prevent extra frizziness. Every day after you straighten your hair, or when you wake up, apply serum to your hair. Then, spritz your roots with a light hairspray to prevent flyaways. Secure your hair at night to prevent it from becoming tangled or misshapen as you sleep. You can put it in a loose bun or wrap style for best results. You may also want to wear a silk scarf over it. Pin your hair back on the last day. If your hair is looking really oily, you can use the last day as an opportunity to wear it in a cute undo. You can also just wear a headband or pin back your front pieces as those are probably the ones that have acquired the most moisture and oils throughout the day.
