Using Hair Straightener for African American Hair

When using hair straightener for African American hair, many men and women want the option of sporting straight hair, but do not want to use harsh chemicals on their locks to achieve the look. Damage to hair and skin, and allergic reactions, are just a few of the reasons to avoid hair straightening chemical treatments. This guide will offer tips to use hair straightener for African American hair.

Using Hair Straightener for African American Hair

First of all, select a hair straightener with adjustable heat, and one that will heat to the maximum 450 degree F. African American hair is stronger, and can withstand higher heats without being damaged – it will also require higher temperatures to get the hair straightened.

Secondly, the best iron for your purposes will be a half-inch or one-inch iron, and especially one that offers teeth on the plates. These teeth will be useful for untangling the hair.

Next, prepare the hair by shampooing it and using a deep penetrating conditioner which will soften the tresses using healthy moisturizers. If at all possible, let the hair air dry, without using a blow dryer. Those tools offset the positive effects of the conditioner and may cause tangles that inhibit the straightening process.

The fourth step is to set the hair straightener at medium heat, between 300 degrees and 350 degrees F, and give your whole head of hair a “once over,” to brush out any tangles. Gently pull the hair straight down all the way around your head. Now, spend a few moments dividing your hair into sections for more direct attention. You may also want to apply a leave-in conditioner to the ends of the hair, to prevent them from drying out.

At this point, take a small section of hair and work the hair straightener through it from back towards the fronts. Go as quickly as possible without pulling or snagging. The temperature of the styling tool should be set to 420 to 450 degrees F, for maximum effectiveness. Once you know that the temperature you’ve chosen will not damage your tresses, you may go more slowly to avoid repetition. The section of hair you work should feel smooth, silky and very straight. With practice you will be able to reduce the time it takes, and you’ll perfect the technique, to attain the straightest locks possible.

Expert advice for using hair straightener for African American hair

Once you have straightened your hair, use your styling tool to craft any hair style you desire. Be patient with the whole process. Take your time. Relax and enjoy yourself. The end result will by a stunning look you are very happy with, whether it is for work, school, church, casual dining with friends, or a long-awaited date. Enjoy the journey…appreciate the results that correctly using hair straightener for African American hair!