Tired of taming your curls? Want to opt for saner, straight hair? If the answer to both questions is yes, then hair straightening is one option you can consider. But you have several treatment options to choose from. If you are confused which one to opt for, here’s a comprehensive list for you.
What is hair straightening?
It is a hairstyling process wherein hair is straightened using many tools and methods. The process can be temporary or permanent. There are different ways to straighten your locks depending on how curly they are. Here are for 5 on-the-go hairstyles for curly hair.
How is it done?
Straightening creams: If your hair isn’t too curly, you can opt for straightening lotions and creams available in the market that coat your hair and prevent it from curling.
Blow-dry: Even getting your hair blow-dried can make your hair straighter but it will last only till the time you don’t wash them.
Straightener: These are probably the most popular product in the market for straightening hair and with good reason since they do work on very curly hair too. But the method is temporary and will last till your next hair wash. Make sure you choose the right one – if you have short hair or slightly wavy hair, opt for a smaller width plate and if it’s long and thick, go for the wider ones. Are you making these curly hair mistakes?
Chemical relaxers: They contain chemicals which break the bonds that are responsible for the way your hair is – wavy, straight or curly. But as the name suggests, these are full of chemicals such as – calcium hydroxide, ammonium thioglycolate, guanidine carbonate and lithium hydroxide.
Japanese thermal reconditioning: This is a more permanent treatment that involves using relaxing chemicals, neutralisation treatments, deep conditioning and repetitive high-temperature ironing. It’s a long process and costs big bucks but you’ll have to visit the parlour only for re-growth touch up later. For up to three days after the treatment, you can’t wet your hair or tie it up.
Keratin treatment: The process involves several chemicals and hours of ironing but the issue is the use of formaldehyde as an active ingredient. It will not make your hair poker-straight but it will reduce frizz and lessen the curls making your hair smooth in texture. But this treatment may not work on extremely curly locks. Here are some more treatment options.
Tips to keep in mind
Generally speaking, if your hair is coloured or bleached, permanent treatment methods can harm your hair. So make sure you tell your stylist about every treatment you’ve previously had.
Don’t attempt to try permanent treatments on your hair at home – it will never work. And make sure you opt for a reliable hairstylist, even if you have to spend a tad more.
Inexperienced stylists can damage your locks – incorrect proportion of chemicals, too little or too much ironing. This could lead to dissatisfaction and leave you with numerous issues like breakage, thinning or split ends. Follow this hair manual for curly hair.
And don’t ever attempt to ape an online tutorial because every woman’s hair is different. Only an experienced stylist will be able to tell you exactly what your hair needs or can put up with.
Another issue with hair treatments is the touch ups every few months. And the in-between period is the awkward time when your hair is just starting to grow out but isn’t long enough to straighten.
Financially speaking, it’s not only the money you spend for the treatment, but also after the treatment. Most stylists will advise you on a special shampoo, conditioner or hair spa to make sure your hair retains its straightness and these cost extra too. Also try these styles for wavy hair.
Image source: Shutterstock
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