How to Straighten Your Hair Without Heat

If you’re the proud owner of wavy or curly hair, straightening it isn’t just challenging at times, but also requires you to use plenty of hair dryers, chemicals or flat irons. You kind of have to use the highest heat setting, which is also going to damage the hair follicles.

But it’s not the first time in history when women are straightening their hair and they have been doing it for years without using heated styling tools. After all, ceramic plates, ionic or tourmaline are quite new on the market.

However, it’s important to highlight right from the beginning that heat-free straightening techniques aren’t going to work for everybody. They may give you pretty good results, though.

What tricks to use for straightening your hair?

There are several ways to turn your curls and waves into straight hair, but here are some of the most common solutions that may even work for you:

  • Always use the right shampoo and conditioner

Choosing the shampoo and conditioner that work for your hair is essential, no matter if you straightening it or not. Don’t forget about the leave-in conditioner and the hair oil that play a big part when you’re trying to get rid of the curls. Also, keep in mind to use a very absorbent towel that is going to wick moisture out of your hair, with no risk for damage or frizz.

  • Brush, brush, brush

You should brush wet hair down every couple of minutes until it completely dries. Get online and look for the brush that is right for your type of hair.

  • Remember jumbo rollers?

If your hair is very long, you should section your hair and use 6 jumbo rollers for your wrapping your hair flat against the roller. Plastic rollers are a better choice as they smooth out the hair.

  • Wrap the wet hair around your head

You may dry your hair with cold hair and make sections for your hair around your hair and wrapping them all over the head. You shouldn’t dry your hair completely before wrapping it up.

One tip to remember

Use the cold air setting on your blow dryer, only brushing your hair with a brush and fingers. Don’t put any product on your hair and use a natural product (coconut oil is a good choice) after your hair is dry, for putting the frizz under control and relax the hair cuticle.

 

How to Straighten Curly Hair Without Heat

What tricks to use for straightening your hairIf your hair is all curly, one of the reasons for which you love it so much is versatility. Some like to go the easy and the damaging way, which is flattening the strands with a hot air or straightener, brushing them. No matter how many hair protective products you’re going to use, applying heat isn’t the wisest thing to do for your hair. As a matter of fact, is one of the most damaging things that you can do for your hair.

Truth be told, heat straightening does make your hair look sleek and straight, but it takes away your hair’s natural moisture. Your hair gets dry and prone to brittle and it’s only a matter of time until you lose your curl pattern for good and even your hair per se.

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that one use of a flat iron isn’t going to damage your hair as just one use of a heat styling tool may ruin your hair.

Luckily for all of us, there are ways to straighten your hair and still have nice and healthy strands. Even if the methods that we’re going to talk about aren’t going to be the best solutions for type 2 and 3, they’re still going to turn the curls into fine and sleek hair, without damaging it.

  • The elastic way

For some of us out there, the most challenging part about this method is going to be finding the hair ties.

Your hair should be wet and you should start combing your hair for getting rid of the tangles. Keep in mind to apply a frizz-free product too.

Put your hair in a ponytail but make sure you’re not going to pull at your hair at all. Section the ponytail into small increments (1 inch apart should be good enough). Make sure you always use soft hair elastic ties so that you reduce hair breakage.

  • The wrap way

You should use this method on wat and freshly combed hair. split it into sections and pin them one by one against your hair. your hair should be also flat and detangles.

Put on a head wrap around your hair, so that your hair stays in place. You want to reduce the risk for frizz, so a silk scarf is going to be the safest choice.

  • Cool blow dry

Just because the heat setting on your blow dry is damaging for your hair, doesn’t mean you should throw away for good your blow dryer. You should use the cool setting and brush your hair as you dry. A vented brush is going to help you straighten out your curls. Remember to use a serum or a control straightening blow dry cream for better results. Even if this method isn’t the fastest one, it’s a safer solution for straightening hair.

  • The curler way

It may seem a bit weird to use the curler for straightening your hair, but it can actually be quite the counterintuitive solution for flattening your curls. However, keep in mind that you should use large and wide curlers, rolling them nice and tight, making sure that no curl is going to stay in your hair. use a straightening spray and keep your hair wet throughout the whole procedure.

 

How to Straighten Natural Hair Without Heat

Even if you don’t typically struggle with your hair, it’s not all the time that your locks are willingly to lay flat nice and sleek. The easy way? Using a hot iron or a blow dryer for putting everything back in place. We all know, though, that this isn’t the best solution for the hair, especially on the long run.

Changing your hair care routine and giving up on the heat styling products are some of the best things that you can do for your hair. you don’t want to sacrifice the health of your hair for the straight look. Don’t take the easy way and make sure that everything you do for your hair doesn’t damage it. Take the time and dedicate yourself for the well-being of your hair so that you have healthy and radiant hair for a very long time.

Here are some of the things that you should start doing for straightening your natural hair, without using any heat styling tools.

  • Start by using a hair mask

You can step up your game by start using a hair mask, at least once a week. Macadamia oil, avocado or coconut oil-they’re all reliable solutions as they replenish your hair and keep it all silky and smooth. Try to stay away from the chemical choices and go with natural hair masks, even if you’re going to have to pay the extra buck. Shea butter or organic cupuacu galore are ingredients to keep in mind when shopping.

  • Use straightening hair products

Sometimes, your hair needs only for you to change the hair products. an agave smoothing shampoo and a reliable conditioner can change your hair for the better. Go for the products that don’t contain parabens, sulfates or phthalates.

  • Set the cool setting for your hair dryer

You may still use the hair dryer, but not on the heat setting. You can safely use the cool setting on your hair dryer for straightening your hair. Some like to use a fan instead as it’s not only easier, but it also allows you to multi-task.

  • Get the anti-frizz serum

Once your hair is cooled, you should smooth out your hair follicles with a good anti-frizz serum. Get one with Vitamin E and antioxidants. If it’s an organic serum, that’s even better. You don’t want to just get rid of the frizz, but also to keep it all natural. Some like using straightening sprays to lock in the strands. A spray of this type is going to seal in the style, leaving your hair smooth and shiny.

  • Get yourself a good paddle brush or a wide tooth comb

Getting rid of the knots is important for straightening your hair. a wide tooth comb is the right tool to use on your hair. you should always part your hair in sections, going over your hair several times.

If your hair is really curls, you should put your curls in some wide rollers after you combed it. Comb your curls once again afterwards, pinning them tightly around your head. You should force your hair mold straight and keep the rollers for at least one hour.

Here’s a tutorial by SistaWith RealHair on how to straighten natural without using heated instruments.

How to Straighten African American Hair Without Heat

One thing to begin with when preparing to straighten your African-American hair is you gather together the tools that you’re going to need later on:

  • Detangling brush (if your hair texture allows you to use one)
  • Wide-tooth comb
  • Leave-in conditioner
  • Olive oi (or any other hair oil that helps you moisturize efficiently your hair)
  • Shea butter
  • Water in a bottle (you need to maintain your hair damp all the time)
  • Some Yaki hair extensions, if you’re going for a longer/more volume kind of style

Now that you have everything you need for stretching your hair, you should also proceed with a natural hair stretching technique. Your hair has to be clean and damp. Lightweight hair is going to be easier to work with so try to use hair products that don’t weigh down your hair.

There are 5 ways to straighten your natural African-American hair that minimize risk for shrinkage. As long as you’re making an effort, you’re going to be able to master each of them sooner or later.

Keep in mind that each of the techniques works best if you’re wearing it for at least 12 hours or overnight. Use light oils (tea tree oil or coconut) on your hair, for better results. Don’t be afraid to try various leave-in conditioners that brings out the best of your black hair.

  • Wrapping

Wrapping is a great way to use for hair types ranging from 3C to 4A. keep in mind that this method is going to require a lot of time so you need to make sure to plan ahead. It may even take from 24 to 48 hours for your hair to completely dry, especially if your hair is really thick.

Here are the steps to take:

  • Part your hair in 4 sections and detangle gently each of the sections
  • Comb/brush your hair to the side and keep it as straight as you can during brushing.
  • Hold each section in place with some pins as you’re brushing your hair. Do it along the perimeter of your head.
  • Go on with each section, wrapping the hair around your head. Do it on the opposite side of your head too.
  • Get a wig cap and cover your head, leaving your hair to dry throughout the night. It may take you longer than that.
  • Take it down and style your hair as planned.
  • Bunning

Bunning is also a great way to stretch your African-American hair, not only an everyday natural hair style. When your hair is shoulder length or even longer than that, bunning is a great solution for straightening your hair. Here’s how to do it:

  • Use a light mist and detangle nice and easy your hair
  • Comb your hair to the top of the head
  • Brush your tresses into one bun
  • Don’t pull the band too tight, as you may break your hair.
  • Leave your hair like this until it’s entirely dry.
  • Braid or twist

This method is great for straightening your hair without using any relaxers or heat. Versatile, durable and pretty comfortable, hair braiding and twists are quite popular among the naturalists out there. They also protect your hair and maintain your hair hydrated too. One thing to keep in mind though? Make sure you’re patient when removing them so you don’t end up with your hair all frizzy.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Part your hair in several section
  • Braid or twist every single section, right from the roots
  • Pin each section on the opposite side of your head.
  • When your hair is dry, take it all down
  • Get rid of your kinks in a gentle way, using your fingers
  • Comb your hair and style it as you wish.
  • Banding

If there’s one thing to mention about this method, it’s definitely the easiness of use. Additionally, the method gives long lasting results and works amazing for the 3C and 4C hair. remember to use bands that minimize breakage or indentations. Single hair bands, satin cloth or thread are the best choices.

  • Part your hair in two or more sections
  • Apply a shea butter oil (coconut oil or olive oil are going to work too) and a leave-in conditioner to your hair
  • Use a ponytail holder at the base of a section, in order to get a ponytail
  • Wrap a band around the hair, while holding your hair straight and taut. Go from the base of the ponytail to the ends of your strands. You may use as much as 3 to 8 bands for each section, depending on the length of your hair. some like to use flexi rods and not hair bands
  • Make sure hair remains in place and cover your hair with a silk scarf
  • Let your hair dry completely before taking it down.
  • Bantu Knotting

This is another popular way among naturalist because it’s quite versatile. It was created by Bantu people (hence, the name), which is an ethnic group from southern and eastern Africa. It’s a great way to create some tight curls, but also to stretch out your hair. you need to focus on every single knot and, therefore, you do need to plan ahead. This method also gives your hair a nice body, which makes it even more attractive.

Let’s go over the steps:

  • Part your hair into multiple smaller sections
  • Wrap each section into one twist and pin it in place.
  • Once your hair is dry, take it down and style it as planned.

 

How to Straighten Hair Without Heat Overnight or Fast

There are several ways to straightening your hair without using heat. Some are easy to use as you simply prepare your hair and go to sleep and we’re going over two of the popular methods out there that leave your hair silky smooth when you wake up early in the morning.

  • Straightening your hair overnight

This method works great especially if your hair is long. Let’s go over each step you need to take in order to get results.

  • The hair ties method

Your hair has to be wet for this method. You should part it in two sections, making 2 low ponytails, securing each of them with a hair tie. Get a pair of soft hair ties for tying the ponytails 2 inches below where the firs ponytail is placed. You should apply hair ties on the length of your hair, until you get to the end of it.

Remove the hair ties in the morning, enjoying your straight hair. try to tie the hair ties pretty loose so that you don’t leave any dent marks or crimps in your hair.

If your hair is really curly, this method is only going to loosen up your curls a bit and not straightening it for good.

  • The jumbo rollers method

Part your hair into 5 or 6 section, wrapping each of them around a jumbo roller. Roll the sections up until the roots and secure them with some large clips. Leave your hair like this until the morning, when you’re going to take them out and comb your hair. Go for the plastic rollers and not the foam or Velcro ones for better results.

  • The straightening masks

This type of method isn’t just going to make your hair straight, but it’s also going to nourish your hair. There are several hair masks out there that give results overnight, so here are some:

  • The honey and milk mask

You need to mix 1 cup of whole milk (coconut oil works too) and 1 tablespoon of honey. Use your hands and apply the mask all over the hair, going all the way up your strands. Cover your hair with a plastic shower cap for one hour and wash your hair when time’s up.

Using this mask once or twice a week is going to work just fine. Work over your sink as the mask is rather drippy.

  • Lemon juice and coconut milk mask

Combine 1 cup of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 6 tablespoons of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Put them in a bowl and microwave the mixture for 20 seconds. You need to get a smooth paste so make sure you stir well. Once the mask is cool, apply it evenly throughout your hair, using your fingers. Let it work for one hour and wash it with water once the time is done.

  • The milk and egg mask

You need to mix 2 cups of whole milk (coconut milk works just as well) and 1 egg in a large bowl. Whisk until the yolk is completely broken. Soak your hair in the bowl for 10 minutes or so. Make sure you do it over the skin. take your hair out of the bowl after the 10 minutes are gone but don’t squeeze out the excess moisture. Wrap a plastic wrap around your head and let the mask work for another half an hour. Wash out the mask with cold water (warm water is going to cook the egg!).

 

How to Straighten Short Hair Without Heat

Apart from the previous methods that we’ve already talked about, using chemical treatment for short hair is also going to lead to straighter and smoother hair.

You should keep in mind that it’s important not to wash your hair for 2-3 days before the relaxing treatment. Shampooing your hair is going to leave some tiny micro-abrasion, whereas an irritation of your scalp may burn from the relaxer. As long as you’re not combing your hair too close to your scalp, you’re still going to be able to use the comb.

Relaxers are strong chemicals that may damage your hair unless you’re applying it right. The instructions should be clear and you should follow them religiously in order to protect your hair as much as you can. If you’re not the handy customer, it’s better to go to a professional and not do it at home.

Here are the main steps:

  • Mix the relaxer chemicals. Put on some rubber gloves to protect your skin from the chemicals. Use the cup that comes along with the relaxer and mix well until you obtain a white paste.
  • Use the application brush and apply the relaxer on your hair. use a wide-toothed comb for sectioning your hair. begin at the ends of your hair, working all the way to the roots. Proceed the same way for each section, until you apply the relaxer all over your hair.
  • Let the relaxer work for 10-15 minutes. Any relaxer comes with its very own set of instructions, so you should do it accordingly. If you’re experiencing irritation or intense burning, it’s wiser to wash the relaxer out of your hair with some clarifying shampoo.
  • Use the clarifying shampoo when time is up. Get a neutralizing shampoo if the relaxer doesn’t come with one. Comb your hair when you go out of the shower and enjoy the straight hair.

You shouldn’t leave the relaxer for more than 10-15 minutes on your hair. The results should last for 6-8 weeks. Use a conditioner afterwards and rinse your hair with some cold water.

 

How to Straighten Hair Without Relaxer or Heat

Despite of one may think, there are several ways to straighten out your hair without using heat or relaxers.

Here are some other solutions that you can try:

  • Silicone creams and hair dressings

These are quite classic hair products that contain mineral oil, petrolatum and lanolin. Silicone creams are also good choices for straightening your hair, but they also contain dimethicone or cyclomethicone, which aren’t that healthy for your hair.

You only need to apply the product on your damp hair and comb your hair for straightening it. The oils are going to coat your hair and minimize the risk for curling back up.

These products give results on all types of hair. affordable and not damaging your hair, they are always a solution to use. However, that may lead to a greasy feel on your hair. you may even feel that your hair gets dirtier faster, making you wash your hair sooner than expected.

  • The chemical-free relaxers

You can find relaxers that don’t contain chemicals. Even if they’re not as strong as the chemical ones, they’re not going to damage your hair so your strands are going to look silkier, healthier and smoother. They loosen your natural curl pattern, which is going to ease out the straightening process later on.

  • The caramel treatment

This is one typical and reliable method to straighten your natural curls. It doesn’t just soften the hair, but it’s also absorbed by the shaft, stretching out the curls. Your hair becomes easier to detangle and to style afterwards. You should apply it only every 4 weeks, as its results do last.

Here’s what you need for this one:

  • ¼ cup of Blackstrap molasses
  • ¼ cup of olive oil
  • ¼ cup of honey
  • 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar

Put all of these ingredients into a blender and mix them until you get a smooth mixture. Apply it like a regular relaxer and use a dying brush for easier application. Begin with the roots and work your way down to the ends. Cover your head with a shower cap and wait 30 minutes. If you’re aiming for a deep conditioning, it’s not a bad idea to leave it throughout the whole night. You can also store the remaining mixture in your refrigerator for another time.

  • The coconut milk treatment

When you’re going for a softer and straighter hair, the coconut milk method is one natural solution to write down. Not only the mixture is easy to make, but it’s also cheap and you may not even have to get in town for the ingredients. Here’s what you need:

  • 4 tablespoons of plain organic yoghurt
  • 2 tablespoons of honey
  • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
  • Cornstarch
  • 1 lime juice
  • 1 can of coconut milk

Combine all the ingredients, except for the cornstarch, in a bowl. Add the cornstarch gradually, until you get a thick mixture. Let it work in your hair and rinse your hair when time’s up.