Are you updated enough about the latest hairstyles and trends? Well, let’s narrow the circle a bit. Have you heard about the ‘silk press,’ which has become the hottest buzz in the hair industry? If you already know about it, chances are high that you are already clean-bowled over the sheen and shine of the style. But if you are still clueless about it, we can rescue you. Here is a complete ‘silk press’ guide for you. Keep reading:(1)
What Is ‘Silk Press’?
A silk press is a heatless method of ‘temporary hair straightening’ in which the hair is blown and dried in multiple sections before straightening. It is an upgraded version of the traditional hair straightening method called ‘press and curl,’ which uses heat to relax natural curls. A silk press gives straighter, smoother, and shinier hair without causing significant damage or unwanted hassles. All you need to do is choose the right tools designed explicitly for ‘silk straightening’ and a smooth and even finish.
Why Is Silk Press Unique?
Maybe you are unsure how a silk press differs from the conventional press & curl, right? Worry not as we explain to you how it is unique and why you should prefer it over the old-fashioned straightening process:
- Gives extremely straight and relaxed hair while maintaining its health
- It makes hair lighter, silkier, smoother, softer, and extremely shiny
- Adds lots of body to the hair and makes it bouncy
- No pressing oils, waxes, or other oil-based substances are applied to the hair
- The hair doesn’t become greasy or stiff, and it also doesn’t feel heavy
- No hot comb or Marcel iron is used for the procedure
- Specific flat irons (ceramic or titanium plates) are used for straightening the locks and silking them out as well
- No chemical products are used during straightening, which prevents hair from damaging
Also Read – How to Use a Straightening Iron Without Damaging Hair
Critical Steps To a Perfect Silk Press
While it sounds straightforward, the silk pressing method involves several key steps. Check out how to master the art of silk pressing and get perfect salon-like hair:
- Start with cleansing and washing your hair with a good clarifying shampoo. It will make your scalp and locks squeaky clean by removing excess oil, dirt, dust, and product buildup. You can even rinse your hair twice with the clarifying shampoo if needed.
- Once your scalp is clarified, rewash your hair with good hydrating and moisturizing shampoo. The goal is to restore the moisture stripped off the scalp and tame the hair cuticles to make them flat and smooth. A keratin-infused shampoo will do a great job.
- The shampooing should be followed by deep conditioning. Apply a keratin conditioner or a homemade deep conditioning mask to nourish and condition the hair, as you can’t use anything moisturizing during the blowout session that may weigh it down. Meanwhile, detangle the locks with the help of a wide-toothed comb.
- Now, it is time to hydrate your hair through steam treatment. You can wrap a warm towel around your head or use a hair steamer. It should take 20-30 minutes for the moisture to penetrate the roots of the hair.
- After that, rinse the conditioner out of your mane. Ensure you use only cold water, as it will seal the moisture in your hair cuticles and add shine to the shafts.
Also Read – Keratin Hair Straightening Treatments – Benefits and Side Effects
- To get perfectly straight hair, blowing it out while wet is essential. However, you must apply a suitable thermal protectant to your locks to prevent heat damage. Also, apply a leave-in conditioner or light oil serum (silk serum) along the length of your hair fibers.
- Divide your hair into 4 to 6 identical sections and blow drying them one by one. It would be best to blow dry each section thoroughly from the roots to the tips.
- Apply more serum or silk oil to your completely dried hair to make it look smooth, glossy, and silky.
- Here comes the most vital part of the job, i.e., silk pressing. Take a flat iron (with titanium / ceramic plates and adjustable heat settings) and press your hair nicely, focusing on the ends. Ensure that the previous steps are performed impeccably, and your silk press will become flawless.
- Once the flat ironing is done, cut or trim and style your hair.
A silk press usually lasts 2-3 weeks, which can be extended up to 4 weeks with proper aftercare and maintenance. However, it is always good to seek professional help and make the most of your silk pressing rather than doing it yourself at home.
Summary
Discover the latest hair trend, the ‘silk press,’ in this comprehensive guide. A heatless temporary hair straightening offers straighter, smoother, and shinier hair without significant damage. Unlike traditional methods, a silk press maintains hair health, adding body and bounce without greasiness. Key steps include clarifying and hydrating shampoos, deep conditioning, steam treatment, thermal protectant application, and meticulous silk pressing with flat irons. Professional help is recommended for optimal results in this trendy hairstyling technique lasting 2-4 weeks.