To turn your wavy or curly hair into a bone-straight ’do, stylists typically look to chemical treatments and hot tools. And while options like keratin and a Brazilian blowout certainly get the job done, over time, they can be detrimental to your hair health. There are, however heat-free methods that allow you to straighten your hair naturally—damage-free!—using everything from milk to flat wraps at home.
Of course, they don’t work for everyone (they’re best for folks with wavy or fine hair), and the results won’t be quite as sleek as using a relaxant and a flat iron. So, if you’re skipping the heat and chemicals, set your expectations. “All these methods take time and aren’t perfectly straight techniques,” says Aaron Grenia, the cofounder of IGK Hair and Salons. Celebrity stylist Orlando Pita, founder of Orlando Pita Play, concurs: “Sure, it’s possible, but it’s important not to get your hopes too high, particularly if your hair is extremely curly to begin with.” Ahead, discover professional-approved methods that can help.
Use rollers
“Rollers are the best way to straighten your hair naturally,” says Pita. Start by applying a detangler to keep your hair free of knots. After, apply a setting lotion or smoothing cream for longer-lasting results, advises Jennifer Korab, professional stylist. The Bumble and Bumble Tonic Lotion is great for this step.
Next, apply foam or Velcro rollers around the head to damp, not wet, hair. By playing with the size of the rollers, you can customize your look and create more volume at the top or bottom, says Pita. Larger rollers on top of your head will create more of a bouncy look. To get the best results, make sure your hair is completely dry before taking out the rollers. Korab recommends sleeping with the rollers to give you a “smooth, silky, and voluminous look.”
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Try flat wrapping
“Flat wrapping your hair is a great alternative for straightening curly hair without heat,” says Korab. The technique involves brushing your wet hair and wrapping it around your head as flat as possible.
“Take your damp hair, and comb sections flat to your head. Wrap your hair around your head until all the length is up, and pin it tightly with bobby pins,” says Grenia. “Then, wrap a silk scarf or satin bonnet to cover and protect your hair from frizzing during sleep.” When you wake up, your hair will be smoother and straighter. Pro tip: Use a satin or silk pillowcase, too, in order to reduce friction.
Keep on brushing
Not into rollers? You can also opt for a leave-in conditioner post-shower to “hydrate your hair and protect it from frizz,” says Grenia. Next, he recommends parting your hair, brushing it straight, then letting it air-dry for five to 10 minutes before brushing it straight again. “Repeat until your hair is dry, adding more leave-in conditioner if needed. This method takes time and won’t get you perfectly straight, but it helps you avoid heat styling.” If you chose this method, invest in a quality brush made for damp hair, says Jamie Wiley, a professional hairstylist. “It will help to detangle the hair without pulling or breaking,” she says.
Do a milk mask
A milk mask can help nourish and smooth the hair, says Grenia. “Coconut milk is supposed to be the best for a milk mask, but most milk (besides almond) can work work,” he says, noting that the heavier the milk, the better for smoothening benefits. “Leave it in like a conditioner for about 10 minutes, rinse, and then let it dry naturally.” Grenia cautions that this method works best for wavy hair types and doesn't provide the same smoothing benefits for curly hair. “It will just soften the curls,” he says.
Use a shampoo and conditioner for straight hair
“Another option is to use a smoothing shampoo and conditioner specifically designed to smooth the cuticle,” says Wiley. Try Pureology Smooth Perfection Shampoo and Conditioner, a duo that controls frizz and is safe to use on color-treated hair.
Nadine Jolie Courtney is a lifestyle writer whose work has appeared in Town & Country, Robb Report, and Angeleno; a graduate of Barnard College, her fourth book, All-American Muslim Girl, was named a Kirkus Best Book of 2019. She lives in Santa Monica, California, where she posts too many photos of her daughter on Instagram.
Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok
