Permanent Straightening After Care

Caring for your hair after a permanent smoothing treatment, such as a chemical straightening is crucial to maintain the sleek, smooth results and ensure the health of your hair. Here are some detailed tips to help you care for your hair after a permanent smoothing treatment:

Immediate Aftercare (First 48-72 Hours)

Use the after care that your hairstylist recommends to you.

Avoid Washing: Do not wash your hair for at least 48-72 hours after the treatment. This allows the chemicals to fully penetrate the hair and achieve the best results.

Keep Hair Dry: Avoid getting your hair wet. If it gets wet accidentally, blow dry and flat iron the affected area immediately.

Avoid Hair Ties and Clips: Do not use hair ties, clips, or any accessories that might create dents or creases in your hair. Keep your hair down and straight.

Do Not Tuck Behind Ears: Avoid tucking your hair behind your ears to prevent any creasing.

Washing After 48-72 Hours

Shampoo: Use a sulfate-free, sodium chloride-free shampoo. Sulfates and salts can strip the smoothing treatment from your hair, reducing its longevity.

Conditioner: Use a conditioner specifically formulated for chemically treated hair. These products help maintain the smoothness and hydration of your hair.

Frequency: Wash your hair less frequently to preserve the treatment. Aim for 2-3 times a week if possible.

Drying

Blow Drying: After washing, blow dry your hair to maintain the smooth, straight effect. Use a medium heat setting and a heat protectant spray.

Air Drying: If you prefer to air dry, be aware that it may not give the same sleek look as blow drying. Use a leave-in conditioner to help manage frizz.

Styling

Heat Styling: If you use heat styling tools (like flat irons or curling irons), always apply a heat protectant spray first. Limit the use of high heat to prevent damage.

Avoid Excessive Styling: Try to minimize the use of styling products and tools that can weigh down or damage your hair.

Hair Products

Avoid Sulfates and Salts: Use products specifically formulated for chemically treated hair. Avoid products containing sulfates, sodium chloride, and alcohol.

Leave-In Treatments: Use leave-in conditioners or serums designed for chemically treated hair to add moisture and protect against damage.

Brushing

Gentle Brushing: Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for chemically treated hair. Start from the ends and work your way up to avoid breakage.

Detangling: Be gentle when detangling your hair to prevent breakage and maintain the smooth texture.

Sleeping

Silk or Satin Pillowcase: Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz and breakage.

Loose Hairstyles: If you need to tie your hair up, use a loose scrunchie or a soft hair tie. Avoid tight hairstyles that can create dents.

Maintenance

Touch-Ups: Depending on your hair type and how well you care for your treated hair, you may need touch-ups every 3-6 months.

Regular Trims: Schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks to keep your hair healthy and to remove any split ends.

Protection

UV Protection: Use hair products with UV protection to shield your hair from sun damage, which can affect the smoothing treatment.

Swimming: Before swimming in a pool or the ocean, wet your hair with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner to create a barrier against chlorine and saltwater. Wear a swim cap if possible, and rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water afterward.

Hydration

Deep Conditioning: Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask into your routine once a week to keep your hair hydrated and to repair any damage from the smoothing treatment.

Hydrate from Within: Drink plenty of water to keep your hair hydrated from the inside out. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining the health and shine of your chemically treated hair.

Be Gentle

Cool Water Rinse: Use lukewarm or cool water to rinse your hair. Hot water can open up the hair cuticle and cause the treatment to fade more quickly.

Avoid Over-Washing: Try to wash your hair less frequently to preserve the smoothing treatment.

By following these tips, you can keep your hair smooth, frizz-free, and healthy after a permanent smoothing treatment. Regular care and attention are key to maintaining the beauty and longevity of your chemically treated hair.