After straightening your hair, allow it to cool completely before touching or styling it further to help maintain the straight style and minimize frizz.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of what to do after straightening your hair:
Let it Cool Down
- The most important step: Resist the urge to immediately run your fingers or a brush through your hair. Straightened hair is still malleable when warm. Cooling down allows the new shape to set.
- How long to wait: Allow your hair to cool for at least 5-10 minutes. The longer you wait, the better the straightness will hold.
Apply Hair Products
- Serum or Oil: Apply a lightweight hair serum or oil to add shine, reduce frizz, and protect your hair from humidity. Focus on the ends and avoid applying too much near the roots to prevent greasiness.
- Hairspray: Use a light-hold hairspray to further set the style and provide extra hold, especially if you live in a humid climate. Hold the can at arm's length and spray evenly.
- Heat Protectant (Optional): While you applied heat protectant before straightening, a very light mist can help further protect against environmental factors.
Style Carefully
- Avoid Excessive Touching: Continually touching your hair can introduce oils and cause it to become greasy faster. It can also disrupt the straight style and lead to frizz.
- Gentle Brushing (If Necessary): If you need to brush your hair, use a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristle brush designed for straightened hair. Brush gently from the ends upward to avoid pulling or damaging the hair.
Maintain Your Straight Hair
- Sleep Smart: Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz. You can also loosely wrap your hair in a silk scarf.
- Avoid Moisture: Humidity is the enemy of straight hair. Try to avoid activities that cause your hair to get wet or exposed to high humidity.
- Dry Shampoo: Use dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and keep your hair looking fresh for longer between washes.
By following these steps, you can prolong the life of your straightened hair and keep it looking sleek and frizz-free.
