How to Straighten Your Natural Hair and Avoid Damage

Many natural divas that I know love the versatility of their natural hair – whether they decide to rock a natural twist out or decide to straighten their tresses for a long flowing looking.  However you decide to wear your hair, it is important to take the necessary steps to maintain healthy hair, especially when using straightening.  The following is a list of 5 steps to take to avoid heat damage to your natural locks:

1.  Deep Condition First

Deep conditioning helps to strengthen the hair and should be done before any application of heat.  Deep condition gives your hair the strength to withstand heat styling.  Apply the deep condition and let it sit on your hair for at least 30 minutes.  For maximum results, apply a plastic cap and sit under a hooded dryer.

2. Always, Always, ALWAYS use a heat protectant

Heat protectants add an additional layer of protection to your hair.  For better protect, apply the heat protectant prior to blow drying and straightening.  Some oils (like grapeseed oil) can be used as heat protectants; however, I recommend using quality products created for the purpose of protecting your hair from heat damage.

3. Watch your Heat Settings

Your hair should be straightened using the lowest (most effective) heat setting.  Be sure that your flat iron has a temperature setting. Any temperature over 320-325 degrees can alter your curl pattern.  Some women have even had difficulty getting their hair to “bounce back” to its natural curl pattern after straightening.  We wouldn’t want all of your hard work to go down the drain.

4. Detangle Gently – Finger Detangle

Prior to straightening, take the time to gently finger detangle your hair to decrease damage and breakage.  Finger detangling should be done after the deep conditioning process.  Combing and brushing can cause unnecessary manipulation of the hair and can result in excess breakage.

5. Wrap it Up

After your straightening process is complete, make sure you tie your hair up at night with a silk or satin scarf.  Silk and satin does not absorb the moisture in your hair.  Avoid cotton pillows and scarves as it will suck your hair dry of all its moisture and cause breakage and damage.

Natural hair is versatile and beautiful.  Be good to your hair and it will be good to you and remember: have fun with your hair!