There are many different methods for straightening hair; the most suitable is dependent on the individuals needs. You should consider the condition of your hair, your finances and the type of look you'd like to achieve.

Tops methods of hair straightening:

Blow drying hair straight

If your hair is wavy, or only has a soft curl, it is usually able to be blow dried to a smooth finish. You will require a good quality blow dryer that has at least 1600 watts of power. This also requires a good deal of blow drying finesse. You need to be able to move a large round bristle brush through your hair, whilst directing the nozzle downwards. This technique is typically less damaging then using a flat iron and is cost effective because you don't require any additional expensive tools.

Using a flat iron

The most common method of straightening hair is with the use of a flat iron. You can either blow dry your hair smooth and then finish off with a flat iron, or purchase a wet to dry straightener which can be used on wet hair. Flat irons can be very damaging over time, because they heat up to very high temperatures. It is vital that you use a heat protection product before hand. Good quality versions are usually more expensive then blow dryers to purchase, but the cost per use can end up quite low after several years usage.

Hot air straightening tools

The hot air straightening tool is a more recent product to hit the market. There are several different brands to choose from, but they all possess some form of teeth that guide the hair to straightness. They tend to be much easier to use then a blow dryer and separate round brush. They are best for women who have wavy or lightly curly hair. On very curly hair they don't tend to be strong enough to straighten it. They are not too expensive and tend to create straight locks that still possess some body.

Chemical straightening

If you are after a more permanent straightening solution that won't dissolve when the hair comes into contact with water or humidity, you need to look at chemical forms of straightening. However, be warned that the strong chemicals used can cause damage to your hair. Chemical straightening is only really suitable if your hair is not colored or chemically treated in any other way, otherwise it can prove too damaging. It can be an expensive process, because it requires a root touch up every two-three months and it is generally best to leave to a professional.

Relaxing

Relaxing is another method of chemical straightening, but it utilizes less powerful chemicals then full strength chemical straightening. It is suitable for people who just want to rid themselves of a light kink, or perhaps make their curly hair a lot more manageable. It is still advisable to see a professional stylist for this form of straightening.

Bio ionic relaxing

If you already have fairly straight hair, but you want to make it super sleek then Bio ionic straightening might be for you. It aims to make hair tack straight. It uses very strong chemicals so it is best for natural hair that is nearly already straight. It takes a long time and tends to be very expensive.

Remember, that any of the forms of straightening discussed above have the ability to damage the hair. It is always advisable to treat straightened hair to some extra TLC. Use heat protective products, U.V protection and give your hair regular treatments.

Learn more about this author, Kimberley Heit.
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