NewHairStraightener.org

Straight hair has been in fashion for many years and has increased in popularity over the past decade. The straight hairstyle is a trademark of fashion and runway models and many people desire to have model-straight silky hair. Unfortunately, most people are not born with perfectly straight hair. Frizzy hair, unmanageable curls, and split ends are common hair problems that many of us experience. If you have unruly hair and long for smooth, silky hair, hair straightening may be the answer. Hair straightening is a styling method used to straighten and smooth hair to give a sleek look. The two most popular hair-straightening techniques involve using chemical straighteners or hair irons.

Example of model with straight hair

Chemical hair straighteners or relaxers change the structure of the hair causing the straightening affect to be permanent. However, hair regrowth will not be affected so it is recommended that you receive touch up treatments every six to nine months. Chemical hair straighteners should be applied by trained and experienced professionals since they are composed of very strong chemicals and hair damage can easily occur. Before the application, your hair texture, elasticity, and any existing hair damage will be evaluated to determine what strength of relaxer to use on your hair. Your hair care professional will then use a combination of their hands and tools to apply the hair straightening solution. The solution is combed through the hair while pulling the hair straight. Make sure you properly maintain your newly straightened hair by using protein rich shampoos and conditioners. The moisture and protein that these products provide will prevent your hair from becoming dull and frizzy.

Hair straightening irons can be used in your own home. These appliances are simple to use, but be cautioned that the heat used to straighten your locks will weaken and damage your hair. Straightening irons with ceramic-coated plates are recommended because they are gentler on your hair. Irons with smaller plates are recommended for short to mid-length hair, while irons with larger plates are perfect for long, thick hair. To use, just take little sections of hair and place the root end (top) between the plates of the iron. Apply light pressure and work the iron down towards the ends of your hair increasing the pressure slightly as you go. Use a smooth, even motion and do not stop until the straightener runs off your hair. If you have long hair, use clips to separate your hair into sections to make it easier.

Curly Hair and Ethnicity

Ironically, many who are born with naturally straight hair want curly hairstyles. It seems that we all want what we don’t have. When looking for the best hair straightening method, ethnicity can also determine your hair texture. People of African decent or Asians tend to have hair that must be straightened by heat or chemicals. Some Caucasians can also have naturally curly or kinky hair.

Example of an asian girl with straightened hair

If you choose not to keep your hair in its natural state there are two processes in achieving straightened hair. You must decide if you want your hair straightened temporarily or permanently. Your decision will determine what products and/or equipment you’ll need:

Temporary Straightening

• Temporary straightening can be achieved through thermal (heat) straightening equipment. Examples are blow dryers, hot combs, flat irons, and curling irons. Blow dryers are used after conditioning while the hair is wet. They are used in conjunction with a rounded brush to straighten the hair.
• Hot combs, or pressing combs, are used to straighten African American hair that is completely natural. Even though this process is not done much anymore it is still the best way to straighten natural hair.
• Ceramic flat irons are very popular these days. The different heat settings make them ideal for all types of hair textures and are so versatile they can be used to curl hair as well.
• The curling iron is a straightening device even though it curls the hair. To achieve more straightening than curl choose a wider barrel.
• Hairdressings & Silicone Creams are based on oily materials (petrolatum, mineral oil, dimethicone). When applied, the product makes curly hair comb straight. The oils prevent hair from curly too much when dried (after application on semi-wet hair). However, hairdressing and silicon creams will feel greasy, get dirty at the end of the day, and look heavier.
• Styling products can also help straighten hair. However, because of the massive amount of SKUs and brands of styling products, it is hard to determine exactly which brands work for you. Hairsprays, gels, mousses, and wax based styling products can all apply here. Certain shampoos and conditioners also work well in making hair straighter upon application.

Permanent Straightening

• “Permanent” straightening is achieved by applying chemicals (also called relaxers) to the hair to take out the natural curl pattern. Once chemicals are used the only way to get back to the natural curl pattern is to let the hair grow out from the roots.
• There are thousands of different chemical products available. The best plan is to have a professional examine your hair and make suggestions especially if you have never had your hair chemically treated. They will also make the best suggestions if you have had chemical straightening before or if you’ve recently applied hair color.
• A professional will determine if your hair’s texture will tolerate a mild relaxer or if you will need something stronger because of hair resistance to chemicals.
• You will need to determine the price of temporary or permanent hair straightening to keep within your budget. Geography and location must also be considered. If you live in a rural area where picking the right salon can be difficult you may need to consider travel time to the nearest large city in your area for professional services.
• Permanent straightening processes include the Japanese Straightening System, Chemical Relaxers, and Brazilian Hair Straightening

*Special Note: Your author with slightly wavy coarse male Asian hair uses Matrix shampoo and conditioner for slightly straighter hair during showers, regular relaxer (chemical) reconditioning every 2 months and Hanz de Fuko styling gel for straight hair.

Example of straight hair for Asian men