Expert Advice
Chemically straightened hair can look absolutely gorgeous when done right, but it does require some extra care and attention to maintain its sleek, smooth appearance. Whether you’ve just had your hair chemically straightened or you’re looking to maintain your existing treatment, here are some expert tips for keeping your hair looking its best.
1. Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Sulfates are harsh chemicals commonly found in shampoos that can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. This can be especially damaging to chemically straightened hair, which is already prone to breakage. To keep your hair healthy and hydrated, switch to a sulfate-free shampoo that’s gentle on the hair and scalp. Look for products that contain natural oils and proteins that can nourish and strengthen the hair, such as argan oil or keratin.
2. Avoid Heat Styling Tools
Chemically straightened hair is more vulnerable to heat damage, so it’s important to avoid excessive heat styling as much as possible. If you do need to use heat styling tools such as straighteners or curling irons, use them on a low to medium heat setting and apply a heat protectant cream to the hair beforehand. This will help to minimize damage and keep your hair looking healthy and shiny.
3. Use a Deep Conditioning Treatment
Chemically straightened hair can become dry and brittle over time, so it’s important to keep it hydrated and nourished with regular deep conditioning treatments. Look for products that are specifically formulated for chemically treated hair, as these will contain ingredients that can help to repair and strengthen the hair, such as keratin or collagen. Apply the treatment to your hair once a week, or as often as recommended by your stylist.
4. Avoid Tying Your Hair Too Tightly
Tying your hair too tightly in a ponytail or bun can put stress on the hair, causing it to break or become damaged. This is especially true for chemically straightened hair, which is already more fragile than untreated hair. To avoid damaging your hair, opt for loose hairstyles that won’t pull on the hair, such as a loose braid or a low, loose bun.
5. Protect Your Hair From the Sun
Sun exposure can cause hair color to fade and dry out the hair, making it more prone to breakage. To protect your hair from the sun, wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner that contains SPF. You can also use a hair serum that contains natural oils, such as coconut or argan oil, to keep your hair moisturized and protected.
6. Get Regular Trims
Regular trims are important for maintaining the health of your hair, especially if it’s chemically straightened. Trimming your hair every 6-8 weeks will help to remove split ends and keep your hair looking healthy and shiny. It will also help to prevent breakage and keep your hair looking smooth and sleek.
7. Don’t Overwash Your Hair
Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, leaving it dry and damaged. This is especially true for chemically straightened hair, which is more prone to breakage. To keep your hair looking healthy and shiny, try to wash it no more than two or three times a week, and use a sulfate-free shampoo.
8. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Chemically straightened hair is more sensitive than untreated hair, so it’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals on it. This includes hair dyes, bleach, and other chemical treatments. If you do want to color your hair, talk to your stylist about using a gentle, ammonia-free dye that won’t damage your hair.
In Conclusion
Chemically straightened hair can look absolutely stunning when done right, but it does require some extra care and attention to maintain its sleek, smooth appearance. By following these expert tips, you can keep your chemically straightened hair looking healthy and beautiful for longer. Remember to use a sulfate-free shampoo, avoid heat styling tools, use a deep conditioning treatment regularly, avoid tying your hair too tightly, protect your hair from the sun, get regular trims, don’t overwash your hair, and avoid harsh chemicals. By taking good care of your chemically straightened hair, you can enjoy its beautiful, sleek appearance for months to come.
