Okay, if you’re rocking a sleek silk press on your natural hair, you know the feeling – that smooth, shiny, effortlessly stylish look! But keeping it fresh takes more than just a good stylist. How you wrap your hair at night is like the secret weapon for making that silk press last, fight frizz, and even help prevent oiliness.
Wondering what “straight natural” even means? It’s when you temporarily straighten your natural hair texture using heat tools. Think of it as a way to switch up your look without permanently altering your beautiful curls.
I would share my wrapping secrets and and my favorite tips for maintaining longer silk press for your straight natural hair.
Method 1: The Easy Bun Within Your Bonnet
This is the perfect option for those nights when you want a quick and simple way to protect your silk press.
- Prep Your Hair: Make sure your hair is smooth and tangle-free. A good paddle brush with ball bristles works wonders for detangling and smoothing at the same time.
- Up and Away: Gather your hair into a high ponytail. A loose, gentle twist and then form a bun to keep your ends tucked away. Secure it loosely with a satin or silk scrunchie and a hair grip if needed.
- The Finishing Touch: Give your bun a light brush all over to make sure everything is smooth and tucked in. Now, pop on your silk scarf, and your bonnet.
Why the Bun Works (And Why You Should Do It)
The bun takes minutes, making it an awesome choice when you’re tired. It keeps your hair up and protected while you sleep, reducing friction against your pillow and minimizing frizz. This method also helps prevent overnight greasiness, keeping your silk press looking fresher for longer and giving your hair a bit of body when you take it down
Method 2: The Traditional Wrap
This classic technique is how you get that seriously sleek, straight look that lasts. It takes a little more time, but the payoff is worth it! Here’s how it’s done:
- Section and Smooth: Divide your hair into sections. Starting at the back of your head, wrap each section around your head, smoothing it carefully as you go.
- Secure as Needed: If your hair is a bit stubborn, use hair grips to keep sections in place. No need to go overboard, just enough to hold the shape.
- Polish to Perfection: This is the key step! Use a brush to carefully smooth down every strand, paying special attention to the ends.
- Protect Your Work: Time for your silk scarf to shine! Secure it snugly, followed by your bonnet, and off to bed you go.
Why the Traditional Wrap Works
This method is all about keeping your hair as straight and smooth as possible. It’s perfect when you want to seriously extend the life of your silk press, or even make it look freshly done the next day. Because you’re smoothing everything down so carefully, it also helps with length retention, minimizing snags and breakage while you sleep.
Important Note: This method can take a bit of practice to master. Don’t worry if it feels tricky at first – you’ll get the hang of it!
Essential Nighttime Routine Tips
Remember, a great silk press hairstyle starts before you even put your head on the pillow. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
Having s good dry shampoo is a must-have if you find your straightened natural hair gets greasy overnight. It absorbs excess oil and keeps your hair feeling fresh and manageable. Nadine specifically mentions that the Aussie dry shampoo didn’t work for her, but recommends one from Umberto Gianni.
Even straightened hair needs moisture! Keep your ends healthy and prevent breakage by applying a lightweight oil or serum to them before you wrap up for the night.
A silk or satin scarf is key! It helps reduce friction while you sleep, keeping your hair smooth and frizz-free. Combine it with a bonnet to keep everything in place and protect your edges.
Conclusion
Remember, everyone’s hair is different! Those with thicker textures or tighter curl patterns might find slight adjustments to these methods work even better.
Ultimately, the best way to wrap your hair is the way that keeps your silk press looking gorgeous and helps you achieve your hair goals. Experiment and find the routine that’s perfect for you!