Learning how to straighten natural hair without chemicals is a beautiful way to bring styling versatility to your natural hair. It takes time and dedication to go back to natural hair.
Keeping it healthy by avoiding chemical treatments doesn’t mean you cannot enjoy straight hairstyles. But, how do you get professional results without chemicals?
There are, in fact, several methods to straighten natural hair at home that leave you with gorgeous results. Whether your hair is long or short, there are plenty of hair straightening products that will help you achieve a sleek and smooth look without damaging your hair.
Prepping Natural Hair for Straightening
Properly preparing the hair for straightening can make a big difference in the final result.
Start by thoroughly washing the hair with a sulfate free shampoo. These products are an excellent way to clean any build up from the hair.
Styling products, oils, and conditioners can actually damage hair if you choose to straighten your hair using heat without removing them first. Sulfate free shampoos are designed to remove those products gently.
After thoroughly washing the hair, it’s important to condition your hair. If you choose to use heat as one of your preferred methods of hair straightening treatments, using natural oils is not recommended.
Coconut, almond, and olive oils can actually cause much more damage if heat is applied to the hair, literally cooking it. Try using a heat protectant treatment which is specifically designed for heat such as
.They help to protect the hair from being damaged, especially when heat is used.
Straightening Natural Hair with a Flat Iron – 2 Step Process
This involves blow drying the hair then using a flat iron.
First, apply a heat sealant or protector throughout wet hair.
- Next, section all of the hair into four sections and secure with .
- Remove a clip from one section and blow dry in a downward motion using high air flow but medium heat.
- If you’re wanting a sleek look, use a flat paddle brush.
- While blow drying your hair you may happen to come across a tangle, be careful not to force the brush through the tangle. This causes unnecessary stress to the hair and can weaken the hair.
- Instead, gently remove the tangle with your fingers, beginning at the bottom.
- Continue with drying your hair until it is dry.
The second step to straighten hair naturally is to use a flat iron.
- Once your hair is completely dry, section the hair again.
- Begin with one of the sections you previously created, next take that section and section it again, while using a small tooth in front of the flat iron you will begin straightening your hair. This method is called the chasing method and will leave your hair bone straight.
- Move the small tooth comb and flat iron slowly down towards the end of your hair, but not to slow where you see smoke coming from your hair.
- The goal is to achieve the straightness desired with one pass of the flat iron. More than one pass significantly increases the risk of damaging the hair.
- It’s best to start pressing natural hair with a lower temperature setting on the flat iron. If more than one pass is needed, gradually increase the temperature until the desired amount of straightness is achieved with one pass. Type 4C hair can be straightened at 380 degrees and look wonderful.
- This method can last up to two weeks provided the hair is protected while sleeping. This is done by smoothing and wrapping the hair around the head, then secured with a satin scarf or head wrap.
- There are also a couple of methods to straighten hair without heat. This is ideal if you’re wanting to straighten hair without damage.
- It takes a bit more time but is also very effective. After washing the hair with a sulfate free shampoo, apply your favorite conditioner.
- Allow the hair to air dry. If you’re going to be sleeping while allowing your hair to dry, placing your hair into twists or four large braids, is recommended to prevent tangling.
Image Source: blackhairinformation.com - Once the hair is completely dry, the hair can be placed in large rollers then smoothed around the head and wrapped with plastic wrap. If this method is used, it’s suggested that a oil sheen or roller set foam be used.
- These products help loosen curls and straighten the hair shaft while leaving the hair straight, shiny and soft. Leave the rollers or plastic wrap in for a minimum of five hours or until the hair is completely dry. You can also sit under a hooded dryer with high air flow, and medium/low heat.
- Straightening short natural hair may seem to be a bit of a challenge but can also easily be done at home.
- If you want to use rollers, be sure to choose rollers that are small enough for the length of the hair to wrap around if possible.
Straighten Natural Hair with A Blow Dryer
If you want to straighten your natural hair with a blow dryer, having the proper tools can make a difference with the finished results. Heated styling tools often damage the hair, it’s important to protect it by applying a heat protectant. Heat protectants help reduce damage caused by heated styling tools and will leave your hair feeling silky and smooth.
Divide your hair into sections and apply the protectant to each section. The other must-have tool for straightening your hair with a blow dryer is a flat paddle brush if your hair is long enough otherwise a small tooth comb works just fine.
To use a paddle brush with a hair dryer, place the hair dryer nozzle close to the bristles of the brush. Beginning at the ends of your hair, move the dryer and brush together up toward the roots of the hair. It is not a good idea to leave the hair dryer in one spot for too long. Doing so damages the hair quickly. Instead, move at a medium pace, working each section until all the hair is dry.
Straighten Natural Hair with Hooded Dryer
Did you know you can straighten natural hair with a hooded dryer? It’s easy to do. Hooded dryers are considered indirect heat and tend to cause less damage to the hair. They’re ideal for those who need to dry their hair quickly, but don’t want to use direct heat.
First apply your favorite styling product, paying extra attention to the ends of your hair. Next, you can either roller set your hair or wrap it tightly around the head and secure with bobby pins. Occasionally check the progress and remove the heat when the hair is just a tiny bit damp. Doing this helps reduce the chances of over drying and damaging the hair. That’s it. When the hair is dry, remove the rollers or unwrap the hair and style as you normally would.
How to Straighten Natural Hair Without Heat
Knowing how to straighten natural hair without heat is a wonderful way to keep your hair as healthy as possible. By not adding heat, your hair won’t suffer the damage and dryness caused by using heated styling tools. Although it takes a bit longer, the results are well worth it. One method of straightening the hair without using heat is to use rollers. If rollers aren’t to your liking, it’s possible to straighten the hair using
.How to Straighten Natural Hair Without a Relaxer
For the lady who wants to know how to straighten natural hair without a relaxer, the most effective method is with a flat iron. A flat iron is a styling tool which has two flat plates that become heated. When hair is pressed between the heated plates, the hair becomes straight. Depending on the texture of the hair, a flat iron can leave hair sleek, shiny and very straight. Some people use keratin with flat irons, but there are other products available that are formulated to work specifically with flat irons.
The difference between the two methods is how long they keep the hair straight. Some wash out immediately while others can withstand several shampoos. Keratin treated straightening allows you to enjoy straight hair without needing to use a flat iron too often.
Products to Straighten Natural Hair Without Chemicals
Looking for products to straighten natural hair without chemicals may seem confusing at first, but fear not. There are several products available that help relax curls without using chemicals. If you’re going to be using a flat iron or hair dryer, look for a heat protectant that contains a high amount of silicone. Silicone holds up to heat very well which is why it makes such an excellent protectant.
Heat protectants work best when applied to wet hair and seal the cuticle of the hair. This sealing creates a protective barrier to the heat. In addition to providing your hair with extra shine, the damage caused by the flat iron will be minimized. If you’re going to be straightening your hair without heat, there are a lot of styling products available that will work with your favorite straightening method such as wrapping.
Straighten Natural Hair by Wrapping
Knowing how to straighten natural hair by wrapping is a handy technique that’s simple, effective, and inexpensive. This technique involves wrapping the hair around the head and smoothing it flat against the head. Bobby pins are used to pin the hair flat. If your hair is very curly, it may be necessary to use more bobby pins. Once all the hair is pinned, the hair can be dried naturally or under a hooded dryer. If a hooded dryer is your preferred method of drying, it’s important to apply heat protectant before wrapping your hair to minimize damage to the hair. The amount of straightness will depend on the texture of your hair.
How to Straighten Natural Hair Using Rollers
Learning how to straighten natural hair using rollers is ideal for the lady who wants the benefits of straight hair without sacrificing volume. Hair straightened by rollers also prepares the hair for other styles such as French twists and chignons. To roller set your hair for straightening, select the largest roller your hair can wrap around. Divide the hair into sections that are as long and wide as the roller. Apply a smoothing or styling cream to that section of hair.
If you’re going to use heat to dry your hair, apply a heat protectant instead. Smooth the ends of the hair onto the roller and roll the hair tightly. Secure with a bobby pin or roller clip then use your preferred method of drying. Once the hair is dry, remove the rollers. You can continue straightening the hair by wrapping it or simply style as usual.
Using Curlformers to Straighten Natural Hair
Using Curlformers to straighten natural hair has been gaining popularity because it’s an easy and effective method of helping to straighten hair. Using Curlformers results in bouncy and shiny curls. So if this is the look you’re wanting, you’re pretty much done with your hairstyle. However, because the hair is left smooth and more manageable, it makes additional straightening much easier.
If you’re going to be using a flat iron after using Curlformers, be sure to apply a heat protectant before putting them on. Once your hair is dry, remove the Curlformers and straighten it with a flat iron. If you don’t want to use a flat iron, you can still wrap your hair and cover it with a satin scarf to create straight and shiny hair.
Straighten Natural Hair with Castor Oil
For those who may not have heard, it’s possible to straighten natural hair with castor oil. Many people already know about the benefits of using castor oil on the hair. However, castor oil can help loosen curls and prepare it for further straightening. Because castor oil is a heavier oil, it can weigh down hair and make it feel greasy. Just remember that less is more when it comes to castor oil. When applied properly, castor oil compliments your favorite straightening technique.
There are a few different ways to use castor oil to straighten hair and experimenting will help you find the way that works best for your hair type. One common method is to apply the castor oil to the hair, cover with a shower cap and wrap the hair with a hot towel. After 30 minutes, rinse and proceed with your favorite method of straightening. Not only will your hair be deep conditioned, but it will be more manageable for straightening.
Straighten Natural Hair with Coconut Milk
There are a couple of ways to straighten natural hair with coconut milk.
The first is to mix lemon juice and coconut milk then apply it to detangled hair. Cover your hair with a shower cap or and wait an hour. After one hour, shampoo, condition and use your favorite method of straightening the hair.
Another way to use coconut milk to straighten your hair involves adding lemon juice to the coconut milk in a bowl. In another bowl mix cornstarch and oil until smooth. Add all the ingredients into a saucepan and cook, stirring constantly. When the mixture reaches the consistency of conditioner, remove from the heat. Allow it to cool to the point where you can handle it without getting burned. Apply the heated mixture to your hair, cover with a shower cap and wait 30 minutes. Rinse and continue with your favorite method of straightening.
It’s important to understand that using coconut milk won’t give you results like a relaxer will. Coconut milk simply helps relax the curls so you can get the best results from your straightening method. It also leaves the hair shiny and very healthy.
Straighten Natural Hair with Shea Butter
If your hair is very dry, it’s good to know that you can straighten natural hair with Shea butter. Shea butter’s thick consistency not only conditions the hair but can give it the slip and manageability needed for setting straightening styles. Shea butter is natural and does not contain silicone.
However, when it’s applied properly, Shea butter can be used as a heat protectant. This allows you to use heat to dry it. Some people have even successfully used Shea butter with flat irons. The key to applying heat with Shea butter is to make sure to use the lowest heat setting possible while still getting the desired results.
Some people have layered Shea butter over their favorite oil and have said their straight styles last longer with less shrinkage. This is ideal for those who live in humid climates.
Straighten Natural Hair with Coconut Oil
While it is possible to straighten hair using coconut oil, it’s recommended to wait a couple of days after applying the coconut oil before applying heat. Doing this gives the oil a chance to be completely absorbed into the hair. Coconut oil has a lot of benefits and makes an excellent conditioner. However, if it’s applied to the hair right before using heat, the oil can actually cook the hair and cause more damage.
Using coconut oil for straightening the hair without heat can be more beneficial than using it with heat. It works very well with roller sets and wrapping. Remember, when applying coconut oil to the hair, start with small amounts and add more as needed. A little goes a long way.
Keratin Treatment to Straighten Natural Hair
A keratin treatment to straighten natural hair is a technique where keratin is applied to the hair which is then flat ironed. The keratin seals the hair, making it smooth, straight, shiny and very manageable. It temporarily repairs damaged hair including split ends. Keratin straightening treatments even reduce shrinkage.
This treatment is ideal if you’re wanting your hair to grow a bit before trimming. Although it isn’t permanent, keratin treatments last through about 6 shampoos with no ill effects. Eventually, your natural texture will return. It’s also safe to use on color treated and relaxed hair. Because a little formaldehyde is found in keratin treatments, they should only be done by professionals.
If you would rather not deal with formaldehyde, there are a lot of products you can purchase that have keratin in them. When used over time, they help repair your hair and can give you beautiful results.
How to Straighten Short Natural Hair
Short haired ladies may want to learn how to straighten short natural hair. It really isn’t much different than straightening longer hair. It’s a good idea although not entirely necessary to first prepare the hair by either stretching it or blow drying it. If you’re not opposed to using heat, flat irons offer the best results.
As usual, it’s recommended to apply a heat protectant before applying heat to your hair. This helps prevent damage that can often occur from using heated styling tools. If you’d rather not use heat, wrapping your hair might be the best option for you. Just apply your favorite styling lotion or straightening gel and smooth the hair around your head tightly, pinning it straight. Cover your hair with a silk or satin scarf. Depending on your hair, leave your hair in the scarf for a few hours to overnight. In the morning, remove the scarf and unpin the hair. Style as you normally do.
Whichever way you choose, straightening your short hair gives you the opportunity to rock a variety of hairstyles.
How to Straighten Natural Hair Without Losing Curl Pattern
Because heat styling hair often results in permanent damage, knowing how to straighten natural hair without losing curl pattern is important. Lost curl pattern occurs when the hair has sustained too much heat from heated styling products. There are, however, a few tips that can save your hair when straightening your hair.
The first step is to thoroughly deep condition your hair with a good protein hair mask. This gets your hair in the best possible condition so it can handle intense heat.
The second thing to do to save your curl pattern is to always apply a heat protectant. Most heat protectants contain silicone, which when heated, creates a barrier that protects the hair from the damage sustained by high heat.
The third tip in protecting your curl pattern is to limit or eliminate heated styling tools altogether. If, however, you prefer to use heat, try selecting the lowest heat possible.
How to Straighten Natural Hair Overnight
If you would like to wake up to straight hair, knowing how to straighten natural hair overnight might be just the solution for you. Overnight hair straightening is the perfect solution for the lady who wants to rock beautiful straight styles but doesn’t have the time to dedicate to an entire day to her hair. Hair wrapping takes only minutes and results in smooth, healthy, and straight hair.
To straighten your hair overnight, apply your favorite styling or straightening products and comb your hair around your head. Using a soft bristle brush, brush the hair against the head so it lays as flat as possible. Secure with bobby pins as needed to prevent flyaway hair or puffing. When finished, wrap the hair with a silk or satin scarf and go to sleep. In the morning, remove the scarf and style as you normally would.
To preserve your straight style, simply wrap and cover your hair every night before going to sleep. This method is quick, simple to do and you’ll love the results.
Regardless of the method, you decide to straighten hair . Naturally, it’s recommended to finish your do with a finishing product. These can come in gel or cream form.
Only take a small amount, usually the size of a dime, and gently smooth over your finished style. Finishing products add even more shine and will leave your hair healthy looking and bouncy.
They also lock in moisture, set the style and can many times keep your style looking fresh for up to a week. Even if you used to heat, an oil or oil-based finishing product is acceptable at this point.
Temporary hair straightening is a wonderful way to switch up your look without damage. After all, you worked hard getting your hair natural.
But that doesn’t mean you only have to stick with one hairstyle. Finding the best natural hair straightener for you gives you styling choices that not only look beautiful but ensure that all your hard work stays protected and beautiful.
By learning how to straighten natural hair, you’ll be able to enjoy many looks for any occasion.
Hey Curl Friend, I’m Patrina Haupt the creator and author of Natural Hair Queen. I hope you find my healthy hair care tips helpful in your hair journey. Healthy hair care practices are definitely, what helped me to achieve waist length hair.
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