In this article, we will discuss how to care for chemically straightened hair. Chemically straightened hair, also known as relaxed hair, requires special care to keep it healthy and looking its best. We will cover everything from how to wash your hair to what products to use to keep your hair looking and feeling great.
Table of Contents:
- How to Chemically Straighten Your Hair
- Step by Step Guide for Caring for Chemically Straightened Hair
- Tips for Maintaining Chemically Straightened Hair
- FAQs about Chemically Straightened Hair
- Hair Care Products for Chemically Straightened Hair
How to Chemically Straighten Your Hair
Before we dive into how to care for chemically straightened hair, let's briefly discuss how to chemically straighten your hair. Chemical straightening is a process that permanently straightens your hair. It is best done by a professional stylist to ensure that your hair is not damaged in the process. The process involves applying a chemical solution to your hair, then using a flat iron to seal in the straightness.
Chemically straightened hair requires special care to keep it healthy and looking its best. Here are some steps you can take to care for your chemically straightened hair.
Step by Step Guide for Caring for Chemically Straightened Hair
Step 1: Use a Gentle Shampoo
When washing your hair, use a gentle shampoo that is formulated for chemically treated hair. Avoid shampoos that contain harsh sulfates, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle.
Step 2: Condition Your Hair
After shampooing your hair, be sure to condition it. Use a conditioner that is specifically designed for chemically treated hair. This will help to hydrate your hair and keep it looking healthy and shiny.
Step 3: Use a Leave-In Conditioner
In addition to using a regular conditioner, it is also a good idea to use a leave-in conditioner. This will help to keep your hair hydrated throughout the day and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.
Step 4: Limit Heat Styling
Heat styling can be damaging to chemically straightened hair. If you must use heat styling tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray first. Also, try to limit your use of heat styling tools to once or twice a week.
Step 5: Protect Your Hair from the Sun
Too much sun exposure can cause your hair to become dry and brittle. To protect your hair from the sun, wear a hat or use a hair product that contains SPF.
Tips for Maintaining Chemically Straightened Hair
Tip 1: Don't Over-Wash Your Hair
Over-washing your hair can strip it of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle. Try to wash your hair no more than twice a week.
Tip 2: Use a Satin Pillowcase
Sleeping on a satin pillowcase can help to reduce friction and prevent breakage. It can also help to keep your hair looking smooth and frizz-free.
Tip 3: Get Regular Trims
Regular trims can help to keep your hair looking healthy and prevent split ends. Aim to get a trim every 6-8 weeks.
FAQs about Chemically Straightened Hair
Q: Can I color my chemically straightened hair?
A: Yes, you can color your chemically straightened hair. However, it is best to wait at least two weeks after your chemical straightening treatment before coloring your hair.
Q: Can I use regular hair products on my chemically straightened hair?
A: No, you should use hair products that are specifically designed for chemically treated hair. Regular hair products may contain ingredients that can damage your hair.
Q: How often should I get my hair re-straightened?
A: The frequency of re-straightening your hair will depend on your hair type and how fast it grows. Generally, you can go 6-8 months between re-straightening treatments.
Hair Care Products for Chemically Straightened Hair
Shampoo: Look for a shampoo that is sulfate-free and specifically designed for chemically treated hair. Some good options include Matrix Biolage Smoothproof Shampoo and Redken Extreme Shampoo.
Conditioner: Use a conditioner that is specifically designed for chemically treated hair. Some good options include Joico K-PAK Color Therapy Conditioner and Pureology Hydrate Conditioner.
Leave-In Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner can help to keep your hair hydrated throughout the day. Some good options include It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In Conditioner and Redken Extreme Anti-Snap Leave-In Treatment.
Heat Protectant Spray: Use a heat protectant spray before using heat styling tools to protect your hair. Some good options include TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray and CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protecting Spray.
Conclusion:
Chemically straightened hair requires special care to keep it healthy and looking its best. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the right hair care products, you can keep your chemically straightened hair looking great for months to come.
