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Hair straightening is a common technique that many people use to transform their curls into straight hair. Some do it to match the standards of universal beauty, while others do it for ease and more hair manageability.
The main objective of hair straightening is to temporarily or permanently relax or loosen the natural curls in the hair strands by applying heat or chemical treatments that break the chemical bonds in your hair that form the curls. (1)(2)
However, heating tools are not a good friend for your curls as excessive use of flat irons, blow-dryers, and straightening irons can lead to permanent hair damage.
Continue reading to find out what really happens when you straighten your hair and how bad it is for your curls.
What Is Hair Straightening?
Hair straightening is a process that involves breaking the chemical bonds in the keratin molecule that make the hair curly.
Keratin is the protein that makes up hair, and it has both strong and weak bonds that keep the hair in its curly shape. Straightening the hair involves the use of either a chemical or physical method to break these bonds.
Chemical straighteners work by breaking the strong disulfide bonds in the keratin molecule, and this permanently changes the hair’s structure. Physical methods, on the other hand, temporarily break the weaker hydrogen bonds in the keratin molecule, which allows the hair to be straightened until it gets wet again.
In summary, hair straightening is a process that involves breaking the bonds in the keratin molecule to change the hair’s structure from curly to straight, either permanently or temporarily. (3)
What does temporary hair straightening do to curly hair?
Here’s what temporary hair straightening can do to your hair.
Using hot combs
Temporary hair straightening using a hot comb is a popular method among black women to straighten their hair. This practice involves heating a metal or ceramic comb with a stove or other heat source and running it through the hair to straighten it.
The heat from the comb temporarily breaks the weaker hydrogen bonds in the keratin molecule, which allows the hair to be straightened until it gets wet again.
However, excessive heat or improper use of the hot comb can cause hair damage and scalp burns. This method is not used anymore as it is replaced by easier straightening tools. (3)
Hair dryers and flat ironing rods
Temporary hair straightening can also be achieved using flat irons and hair dryers.
Flat irons use heat to temporarily break the weaker hydrogen bonds in the keratin molecule, allowing the hair to be straightened until it gets wet again. Hair dryers blow hot air onto the hair, which also helps to temporarily break the weaker bonds in the keratin molecule and straighten the hair.
It is important to note that excessive heat or improper use of flat irons and hair dryers can cause damage to the hair. It is also essential to use heat-protectant products to minimize the damage caused by heat styling tools. (2)
What does permanent hair straightening do to curly hair?
Permanent hair straightening methods involve breaking the disulfide bonds in the keratin molecule, and this changes the hair’s structure from curly to straight permanently.
The most common chemicals used for permanent hair straightening include formaldehydes, bisulfites, sodium hydroxide, guanidine hydroxide, ammonium thioglycolate, lithium, and potassium. (3)(4)
Sodium hydroxide
One of the most common chemicals used for permanent hair straightening is sodium hydroxide, which breaks the disulfide bonds in the keratin molecule of the hair to straighten it.
Sodium hydroxide can be harsh on the hair and scalp, so it is essential to use it carefully. (2)(5)
Guanidine
Another chemical used for permanent hair straightening is guanidine hydroxide, which is gentler than sodium hydroxide. It works by swelling the hair shaft, which allows the straightening solution to penetrate the hair and break the disulfide bonds. (5)
Lithium and potassium hydroxide
Lithium and potassium hydroxide are other chemicals used for permanent hair straightening. These chemicals work similarly to sodium hydroxide but are less harsh on the hair and scalp. (3)(5)
Bisulfites and ammonium thioglycolate
Bisulfites and ammonium thioglycolate are also used for permanent hair straightening. Bisulfites work by breaking the disulfide bonds in the hair, while ammonium thioglycolate works by reducing the disulfide bonds and then reforming them in a straight configuration.
It is important to note that permanent hair straightening using these chemicals should only be done by a professional to minimize the risk of hair damage or scalp burns. It is also crucial to take proper care of the hair after the treatment to maintain its health and prevent further damage. (2)(5)
Other Negative Effects of Straightening Curly Hair
Chemical straighteners can have negative effects on both the hair shaft and scalp. Research highlights some of these effects:
- One of the adverse effects of chemical straighteners is hair breakage, which can occur if the chemicals are left on for too long or if they are not rinsed out properly.
- Chemical straighteners can make the hair dry and brittle, which can lead to split ends and further breakage.
- Chemical straighteners can cause scalp irritation, redness, and burning if they come into contact with the skin.
- Some people may experience hair loss or thinning as a result of chemical straightening, particularly if the treatment is done frequently or improperly. (6)
- Using bad-quality chemical products or not following the proper techniques of hair straightening using a flat iron can break the hair from the roots.
- Using chemicals for hair straightening for the first time without checking for reactions may result in an allergic response.
- Exposure to the sun immediately after straightening the hair can be bad for hair health as UV rays are damaging to the hair.
- Some people often get bored with the same boring look they get with straight hair.
How to Minimize Adverse Effects
You can minimize the risk of experiencing unpleasant side effects of hair straightening by following these measures:
- Choose a reputable and experienced stylist for chemical straightening and follow the recommended aftercare instructions. These may include using special shampoos and conditioners to help nourish and protect the hair, as well as avoiding excessive heat styling and other damaging hair practices. (6)
- Use heat protectants as they are designed to help minimize damage from using heat on hair by forming a barrier between the heat and your hair. Research has found that using heat protectants before straightening reduces protein loss and any changes to the hair’s structure. (7)
You can also follow some simple methods at home to get straight hair. They will obviously not give you salon-straight hair, but they can give you something similar to satisfy your desire to have straight hair, especially if your hair is frizzy. These methods include:
- Coconut milk wash twice a week to reduce frizz
- Egg and almond oil to condition your hair (8)
- Eating food rich in keratin (9)
- Washing your scalp thoroughly when you shampoo and condition your hair ends (5)
Note: Remember that not everyone looks good with straight hair, so don’t be afraid to try other styles. If you have curly hair, you can style it to perfectly suit your face. For this, you can take a hair stylist’s advice.
DIY Recipes for Hair Smoothening At Home
Curry leaf hair conditioner
According to a research study, a hair conditioner containing curry leaves, aloe vera, amla, and flaxseed can be good for extra smoothening of the hair. (10)
Although researchers used specialized equipment to prepare the conditioner, you can make a similar formulation at home using these ingredients by following these steps:
- Crush curry leaves to extract their juice.
- Mix the curry leaf juice, aloe vera gel, amla pulp, and flaxseeds (in equal proportions according to the length of your hair) in a bowl.
- Heat the mixture on low heat for a few minutes, stirring continuously.
- Once cooled, strain the mixture.
- After shampooing your hair, apply a small amount of this conditioner to your hair, focusing on the ends.
- Gently massage it into your hair and leave it on for a few minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Rice water hair treatment
A research paper shared that rice water can make your hair look smooth and shiny. It works as a natural conditioner to give your hair a healthy look.
Researchers also claim that a rice water hair treatment lowers the frizziness of the hair and the friction between the strands, which may promote a smoother look. (11)
Follow these steps to perform a rice water treatment for your hair:
- Take 1 cup of rice water and mix it with 1 cup of regular water.
- Add a few drops of your preferred essential oil such as lavender oil.
- Pour the mixture over your hair after shampooing it.
- Massage the mixture into your hair roots.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes and then wash it off.
Can I Get Permanent Hair Straightening if I Am Pregnant?
Research suggests that maternal exposure to hair dyes and hair straightening cosmetics during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of early-age leukemia in the offspring.
While this research does not necessarily mean that hair straightening is bad for pregnant females, it does suggest that there may be potential risks associated with exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy.
Pregnant women need to take precautions to minimize their exposure to harmful chemicals to protect the health of their developing fetus.
Therefore, pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before undergoing any hair treatments and should consider using alternative hairstyling methods that do not involve the use of chemicals, such as blow-drying and using a flat iron on a low heat setting. (12)
How to Straighten Hair Safely at Home Using a Flat Iron or Straightening Rod
You can achieve temporary straight hair using a flat iron or straightening rod by following these steps:
- Wash your hair with a shampoo and conditioner that suit your hair type.
- Dry your hair thoroughly before starting the straightening process.
- Evenly apply a heat-protectant product to your hair.
- Divide your hair into sections using clips or hair ties to avoid missing any areas.
- Take a small section of hair and run the straightening iron over it, starting from the roots and moving toward the ends. Start with a low heat setting on your straightening tool and gradually increase the heat as needed. Avoid using the highest heat setting as it can cause damage to your hair.
- Repeat this process for all sections of your hair until you have straightened all of it.
- Apply a serum or oil to help keep your hair smooth and shiny.
Remember to take breaks in between sections to avoid overheating your hair and causing damage.
Most-Asked Questions About Straightening Curly Hair
Can I straighten my curly hair every day?
No. Experts do not recommend straightening the hair every day as excessive heat can damage your hair and make it brittle. It is best to limit heat styling to once a week.
How can I prevent heat damage when straightening my curly hair?
Using a heat protectant spray or serum can help prevent heat damage. Additionally, make sure to use the lowest heat setting that works for your hair type and texture, and avoid going over the same section of hair multiple times. (7)
What should I do to maintain straightened hair?
To maintain straightened hair, it is important to use the correct shampoo, conditioner, and hair brush as suggested by hair experts.
How do I choose the right straightener for my curly hair?
Look for a straightener with adjustable temperature settings and a wide plate size if you have thick or long hair. It is also important to choose a straightener with a heat-resistant coating.
Can I straighten my hair if I have undergone chemical treatments or color?
Yes, you can straighten chemically treated or colored hair. However, it is important to use a heat protectant and avoid applying excessive heat to already damaged or weakened hair. Additionally, consult your stylist to ensure that your hair is healthy enough for heat styling.
Final Word
Straightening curly hair breaks the chemical bonds of keratin, resulting in a change in hair texture. Chemical straightening is permanent, while heat straightening is temporary.
It is important to take precautions when straightening the hair to prevent hair damage and maintain healthy hair. Consulting a hair professional is recommended for best results.
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