What You Need to Know About Silk Pressing Your Natural Hair

What You Need to Know About Silk Pressing Your Natural Hair

For the girlies rocking their natural hair, a silk press offers a welcome change from the curls and kinks. For a temporary period, you can enjoy the sleek, straight look of relaxed hair without permanently altering your natural curl pattern. Get creative with curls, waves, or even a sleek ponytail with hair that’s lightweight and full of movement.

Silk presses are a great way to enjoy different styles while having a break from manipulating your natural hair daily, and they also allow you to see your true hair length and trim split ends more easily.

In short, a silk press on natural hair offers the best of both worlds, giving you a polished look while still maintaining healthy, natural hair underneath.

What is a Silk Press?

A silk press is a heat styling technique used to straighten natural hair – typically type 3 and 4 - without the use of chemicals. It leaves the hair smooth, soft, shiny, and full of body, taking on the appearance of a relaxed or flat-ironed look. And because the hair's protein bonds have not been affected, it will revert to its natural curl pattern when washed or exposed to moisture.

How to Achieve a Silk Press:

  1. Cleanse – Start with a thorough wash using a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup, followed by a moisturizing shampoo to hydrate your hair.
  2. Deep ConditionApply a deep conditioner or hair mask to strengthen and hydrate your hair, reducing the risk of heat damage.
  3. Protect From Heat– Distribute a heat protectant spray or serum evenly throughout your hair to protect your strands from possible heat damage.
  4. Blow Dry – Blow dry your hair straight using a comb attachment or round brush to stretch the curls.
  5. Flat Iron- Using a titanium or ceramic flat iron, straighten your hair in small sections. The "chase method" (using a fine-tooth comb in front of the flat iron) is often used for a sleek finish.
  6. Finishing Touches – Add a lightweight oil or serum to enhance shine and smoothness, to give a final “silky” look.

Make Your Silk Press Last Longer

Extend the longevity of your silk press on natural hair by:

  • Avoiding Moisture & Humidity - Use an anti-humidity spray or serum and avoid steamy environments like showers without protection.
  • Wrapping Your Hair at Night - Wrap your hair around itself, then secure with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to prevent frizz and preserve the style.
  • Using Dry Shampoo - To combat oil and buildup without washing, use a dry shampoo at your roots.
  • Limiting Heat Styling - Too much heat can damage your hair and shorten the style’s life. Use a light wrap or roller set to refresh the shape.
  • Avoiding Heavy Products - Use lightweight serums or oils sparingly to maintain bounce and flow without weighing your hair down.

With the right care, your silk press can stay smooth and sleek for up to two weeks or more.

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