WHAT IS A SILK PRESS + HOW TO PREVENT HEAT DAMAGE

*Image source: google.com

A silk press is simply a temporal hair straightening process which requires blow drying hair in sections before going over with a flat iron (preferably Chi or Ceramic) for a smooth even finish. Products specifically designed for ‘silk’ straightening (usually indicated on label) must also be used.

This process is believed to yield best results especially when straightening naturally curly, coily and kinky hair with little or no damage while leaving the hair light and bouncy instead of weighed down and oily like traditional press systems.

Despite the overall safeness of this method, many curly haired women have suffered heat damage through this process as they neglected certain steps during the straightening process.

Want to prevent heat damage during straightening process? Here are 5 steps to follow:

1. CLEANSE

Ensure that hair is properly clarified, conditioned, detangled and moisturized before embarking on the silk straightening process.

Out of Clarifying shampoo? Apple Cider Vinegar or Baking Soda mixed with water are cheap and effective methods to clarify hair after shampooing.

2. DEEP CONDITION

For extra dry hair, try deep conditioning hair for 15-20 mins before beginning the straightening process, as properly conditioned hair is less likely to suffer heat damage.

3. SILK PRODUCTS

Products specifically created for the silk straightening process must be used for maximum results. Related Article: 5 Best Temporary Hair Straightening Products For Curly Girls

*Recommended: (From left- right) Chi Silk Infusion, Bio-Silk Silk Therapy and Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum.

*Based on readers reviews (left-right) Supersilk Professional Fortified Silk Amino Acid Professional Smoothing Solution and Supersilk Professional Silk Amino Acid Professional Solution

4. HEAT PROTECTION

Don’t forget heat protectant serums and sprays.

No heat protectant serum? Try light weight natural products such as Shea butter, Jojoba and Coconut which contain heat protecting properties.

5. SEEK A PROFESSIONAL

Visit a hair salon or seek the services of a professional when trying out this process to avoid preventable damage to your hair.

Why do this?

Hair stylists are better experienced with the different hair types and textures, heat and product requirements and would most likely know what’s best for yours.

Have you tried the Silk press method? Do do you have any other tips on how to prevent heat damage to natural hair?