I’ve been straightening my natural hair nearly once each month ever since I went natural over three years ago. I used to blowdry my hair every time but found that it made my straight hair feel dry. I also felt like using two heat styling tools in one session was too much heat for my hair. I decided to start using another method to dry my hair before using the flat iron while stretching it at the same time.
Air Drying
Basically, I let my hair air dry which takes longer but works great for me because my hair actually absorbs the product better. My favorite method is to use ponytails with the ends two strand twisted. This way the roots lay flatter and the hair dries in a smooth wavy pattern. You can also use braids but I found that the twists dry quicker and serve the same purpose; stretch the hair while it dries. Another favorite is to pull all of my hair back into a bun with the front and sides slicked back. I’ll wear this as a style for a whole day and then at night, part it down the middle and do two french braids to help dry the center.
Brush it Out
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| Air drying overnight using ponytails with two strand twists |
The final step of the process is to take down the twists or braids and brush the hair out. I like to use a paddle brush but a wide tooth comb also works. I realize it’s considered a no-no to do this on dry hair but this is possible because of the products I use. While my hair is still damp, I always apply a creamy leave-in conditioner, oil and a hair serum on each section. This makes my hair soft enough to comb through once it is dry.
The Result
When my hair is dry and brushed out, it still looks just as big and stretched as a blowout. It amazes me that so many naturals grab the blow dryer whenever they want to have stretched hair. Sure the blowdryer is faster but why risk the damage? Since I discovered how to do this it has become the method I use to stretch my hair everytime I want to straighten it or see some length.
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| I use a Creamy Leave-in Conditioner and Hair Serum for dry hair soft enough to brush through |
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| Wearing a bun all day gets the edges smooth while drying |