Thread: How to Care for Straight Hair

How to Care for Straight Hair


Having naturally straight hair doesn't necessarily mean having limp, lifeless, stringy hair. If your hair is straight, you actually have a number of advantages over those with curly locks. It is easier to style, and typically shinier if it's cared for properly. So, what should you do to keep your mane magnificent?

The greatest asset of straight hair is that natural oils travel more easily and more evenly down the shafts. This gives your hair its uniform shine and the protective coating make it less susceptible to breakage. However, this is also one of the greatest challenges to caring for straight hair, because it can easily become coated with too much oil, causing it to hang in clumps and look weighed down.

Proper shampooing can do a great deal to alleviate this problem. Even if your hair seems greasy, avoid harsh shampoos. They may remove excess oils near your roots, but they will over-dry the rest of your hair in the process. Instead choose a gentle shampoo, and wash hair more often if needed. When you have to use a stronger shampoo, follow with an intensive conditioner. This replaces oils stripped from the lower part of hair, without causing excess accumulation near the roots.

When you dry your hair, blot it with a towel. Never rub or scrunch your hair because this can cause strands to kink or break. Go lightly on the styling products because anything you put on your hair can potentially weigh it down. If you feel the need to use leave-in conditioners or styling lotions, stick with light weight, preferably natural products. They might be a little less effective than heavy-duty products, but they will leave your hair lighter and be easier to wash out. Avoid ingredients such as waxes, polymers, or lacquers which are overly stiffening.

When styling you should avoid any heat producing tool, such as curling irons and blow dryers. Excess heat is bad for any type of hair, and with straight hair it can cause the flyaway effect. However, blow dryers can help you gain volume. If you decide to take your chances with them, use a low heat, diffused model.

If you are using a good shampoo and are taking care of your hair, it should acquire a natural high-gloss finish. It may, however, still be a little more lifeless than you would like. There are a number of good volumizing products on the market, but avoid those with a high percentage of alcohol because they can dry your hair. Hair sprays can help keep the top of your hair smooth, or hold it in place for specific styles, but don't use them to boost volume. A good volumizing mousse applied just at the roots will usually do the trick, with the least harm to hair.

Whatever styling methods or products you choose, never compromise the health of your hair just to get the perfect look for a day. Treat it gently and appreciate the beauty that is naturally and uniquely yours!