Tired of dealing with frizzy, unruly hair? Ready to embrace silky, smooth locks that turn heads? Look no further! Straightening the back of your hair is an art form that can transform your look, revealing a sleek and sophisticated style. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to revitalize your everyday appearance, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to achieve the effortless, straight hair you’ve always desired.
Before embarking on your hair straightening journey, it’s crucial to choose the right tools for the job. A high-quality flat iron is the cornerstone of any successful straightening endeavor. Invest in a tool with adjustable heat settings to cater to your specific hair type and heat resistance. Additionally, heat protectant spray is your hair’s knight in shining armor, shielding it from the damaging effects of heat styling. Apply it evenly throughout your hair before reaching for the flat iron, ensuring that your locks remain healthy and protected.
When it comes to straightening the back of your hair, technique is paramount. Sectioning your hair into smaller, manageable pieces will make the process easier and more efficient. Secure the top sections of your hair out of the way with clips, allowing you to focus on straightening the lower layers. Hold the flat iron parallel to your scalp and slowly glide it down the length of your hair, ensuring that you cover every strand. Repeat this process throughout all sections of your hair, taking your time to achieve the desired level of straightness. Remember, patience is a virtue when it comes to hair styling. Embrace the process, and you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous, straight hair that radiates health and vitality.
Brushing Techniques for Straightening
Brushing is a simple yet effective way to straighten the back of your hair. The key is to use the right brush and technique:
- Choose the right brush. A paddle brush with widely spaced bristles is ideal for straightening. It helps to distribute the hair’s natural oils evenly, creating a smooth and frizz-free finish.
- Start at the roots. Begin brushing at the roots and work your way down the length of your hair. This helps to create a smooth foundation and prevents the hair from tangling.
- Brush in sections. If you have long or thick hair, it’s helpful to work in sections. Divide your hair into smaller sections and brush each section individually.
- Use a blow dryer. Once you’ve brushed your hair straight, use a blow dryer to help set it in place. Hold the blow dryer about 6 inches away from your hair and point it downwards. Avoid using the highest heat setting, as this can damage your hair.
- Finish with a smoothing serum. To add a final touch of smoothness and shine, apply a small amount of smoothing serum to your hair. Rub it between your palms and then run it through the ends of your hair.
| Brush Type | Benefits | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paddle Brush | Widely spaced bristles evenly distribute oils, creating a smooth and frizz-free finish. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ceramic Brush | Heats up evenly for faster styling and reduced damage. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Boar Bristle Brush | Natural bristles grip the hair well and distribute oils, promoting shine and smoothness. |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long-lasting results | Can damage hair |
| Can be used on all hair types | Can be expensive |
| Easy to maintain | Requires touch-ups every few months |
Chemical Treatments for Long-Lasting Results
Chemical treatments offer a more permanent solution to straightening the hair. However, it’s important to note that these treatments can damage the hair and should be performed by a professional.
Keratin Treatment
Keratin treatment, also known as Brazilian Blowout, is a popular chemical treatment that uses a protein called keratin to smooth and straighten the hair.
How It Works:
A keratin solution is applied to the hair and then heated with a flat iron. The heat activates the keratin, which binds to the hair and creates a protective layer that smooths the cuticles and reduces frizz.
Benefits:
* Long-lasting results (up to 6 months)
* Leaves hair smooth, shiny, and manageable
* Reduces frizz and flyaways
Drawbacks:
* Expensive
* Can damage hair if not done properly
* May release formaldehyde, which can be irritating to some people
It’s important to consult with a professional stylist before undergoing a keratin treatment to determine if it’s right for your hair type and lifestyle.
Natural Remedies for Enhancing Straightness
Natural remedies can help to improve the health and appearance of your hair, making it look smoother and straighter.
Coconut Milk
Coconut Milk is rich in lauric acid, which has a natural affinity for hair. It helps to smooth and soften the hair, making it more manageable and less prone to tangles. It protects the hair from environmental damage and breakage.
How to use: Apply coconut milk to your hair and scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse with water. You can also add a few drops of coconut oil to your regular shampoo or conditioner.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a natural moisturizer that helps to hydrate and soften the hair. It also contains enzymes that help to break down dead skin cells and remove product buildup. This can help to improve the appearance of your hair and make it more manageable.
How to use: Apply aloe vera gel to your hair and scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse with water. You can also add a few drops of aloe vera gel to your regular shampoo or conditioner.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a natural emollient that helps to smooth and soften the hair. It also contains antioxidants that help to protect the hair from damage.
How to use: Apply olive oil to your hair and scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse with water. You can also use olive oil as a leave-in conditioner. Simply apply a small amount to the ends of your hair and leave it in.
Eggs
Eggs are a natural source of protein, which is essential for healthy hair. They also contain biotin, which is a B vitamin that helps to strengthen hair and prevent breakage.
How to use: Mix one egg with two tablespoons of water. Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse with water. You can also add an egg to your regular shampoo or conditioner.
| Remedies | How to use |
|---|---|
| Coconut Milk | Apply to hair and scalp, leave on for 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse |
| Aloe Vera | Apply to hair and scalp, leave on for 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse |
| Olive Oil | Apply to hair and scalp, leave on for 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse |
| Eggs | Mix one egg with two tablespoons of water, apply to hair and scalp, leave on for 30 minutes, then rinse |
Shampoo and Conditioner
Use a shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for straight hair. These products will help to smooth and detangle your hair, making it easier to style straight. Avoid using products that contain sulfates or parabens, as these can damage your hair and make it frizzy.
Styling Products
Use a leave-in conditioner or serum to help protect your hair from heat damage. Apply these products to damp hair and comb through to distribute evenly. You can also use a smoothing cream or gel to help hold your hair in place and prevent frizz.
Heat Styling
When using heat to style your hair, always use a heat protectant spray to help protect your hair from damage. Use a flat iron or straightening brush to smooth your hair. Start at the roots and work your way down to the ends, using small sections at a time. Avoid using too much heat, as this can damage your hair.
Maintenance
To keep your straight hair looking its best, follow these maintenance tips:
Trim Your Hair Regularly
Get regular trims to remove split ends. Split ends can make your hair look frizzy and unkempt.
Avoid Over-Brushing
Over-brushing can cause breakage and frizz. Brush your hair only when necessary, using a wide-toothed comb or a brush designed for straight hair.
| Type of Hair Brush | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Wide-toothed comb | Gently detangles hair without causing breakage |
| Paddle brush | Smooths hair and reduces frizz |
| Round brush | Adds volume and shape to hair |
Protect Your Hair from the Elements
Protect your hair from the sun, wind, and rain by wearing a hat or scarf when you’re outdoors. These elements can cause your hair to become dry and frizzy.
Avoiding Damage While Straightening
Straightening your hair can give you a sleek and polished look. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential damage that heat styling can cause to your hair.
Here are some tips to help you avoid damage while straightening your hair:
Use the right tools
The type of hair straightener you use can make a big difference in the amount of damage it causes to your hair. Ceramic or tourmaline plates are gentler on your hair than metal plates.
Don’t overheat your hair
The higher the temperature of your hair straightener, the more damage it will cause to your hair. Use a temperature setting that is appropriate for your hair type.
Protect your hair from heat
Using heat protectant spray can help to protect your hair from the damage caused by heat styling. Apply the spray to your hair before you straighten it.
Divide your hair into sections
Straightening your hair in sections will help to prevent you from overheating any one section of your hair. Clip up the top sections of your hair and straighten the bottom sections first.
Use a wide-tooth comb
A wide-tooth comb will help to prevent you from pulling on your hair and causing breakage. Use the comb to gently detangle your hair before you straighten it.
Trim your hair regularly
Trimming your hair regularly will help to remove any split ends that could be damaged by heat styling. Aim to trim your hair every 6-8 weeks.
Split ends are a major cause of hair breakage, so getting regular trims is essential for maintaining the health of your hair and preventing further damage from heat styling.
Here’s a table that summarizes the tips for avoiding damage while straightening hair:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use the right tools | Ceramic or tourmaline plates are gentler on your hair than metal plates. |
| Don’t overheat your hair | Use a temperature setting that is appropriate for your hair type. |
| Protect your hair from heat | Using heat protectant spray can help to protect your hair from the damage caused by heat styling. |
| Divide your hair into sections | Straightening your hair in sections will help to prevent you from overheating any one section of your hair. |
| Use a wide-tooth comb | A wide-tooth comb will help to prevent you from pulling on your hair and causing breakage. |
| Trim your hair regularly | Trimming your hair regularly will help to remove any split ends that could be damaged by heat styling. |
Choosing the Right Styling Tools
To achieve sleek, straight hair at the back, it is essential to select the ideal styling tools. Each type serves a different purpose and caters to specific hair textures and lengths. Here are the key considerations to guide your tool selection:
1. Hair Straighteners
Hair straighteners are the most common tool for straightening hair. They use heat to flatten the hair shaft and eliminate frizz. Choose a straightener that offers adjustable heat settings to match your hair type:
| Hair Type | Heat Setting |
|---|---|
| Fine | Low (250°F – 300°F) |
| Normal | Medium (300°F – 350°F) |
| Thick | High (350°F – 450°F) |
Consider the plate material as well. Ceramic plates distribute heat evenly, while titanium plates heat up quickly. Floating plates adjust to the hair thickness, preventing snags and damage.
2. Thermal Brushes
Thermal brushes combine the benefits of a hair dryer and a brush. They rotate and heat up, allowing you to style and straighten your hair simultaneously. They are particularly effective on frizzy, medium-length hair.
3. Round Brushes
Round brushes are a traditional styling tool for creating volume and smoothing out hair. When used with a hair dryer, they add lift at the roots while straightening the lengths.
4. Paddle Brushes
Paddle brushes have wide, flat bristles that distribute oil evenly. They are ideal for detangling and smoothing long, straight hair without breakage.
5. Boar Bristle Brushes
Boar bristle brushes are made from natural hog bristles. They smooth the hair cuticles, reducing frizz and adding shine. They are suitable for all hair types, especially fine or damaged hair.
6. Wet Brushes
Wet brushes are designed to detangle wet hair gently without causing damage. They have flexible bristles that glide through the hair, minimizing breakage.
7. Hair Dryer with Diffuser Attachment
A hair dryer with a diffuser attachment can help reduce frizz and define curls while gently straightening the hair. The diffuser disperses the airflow, preventing damage and preserving volume.
Professional Salon Techniques
Achieving pin-straight hair in a salon requires professional techniques and expertise. Explore some of the most common methods used by hairstylists to transform your locks:
Brazilian Blowout
This chemical treatment uses a keratin solution to coat the hair strands, sealing them for up to 3-4 months. It reduces frizz, softens curls, and provides a natural-looking straight style.
Keratin Treatment
Similar to a Brazilian Blowout, a keratin treatment utilizes keratin and formaldehyde to smooth and straighten hair. It lasts for 3-6 months and can significantly reduce frizz and curl.
Chemical Straightening
This process involves applying a chemical solution to break down the hair’s natural bonds and then restructuring them into a straight pattern. It is permanent, but it can damage the hair if not done properly.
Japanese Hair Straightening
One of the most intense straightening methods, Japanese Hair Straightening involves multiple steps and can take up to 8 hours. It uses a strong chemical solution to permanently alter the hair’s structure, resulting in pin-straight results that can last up to a year.
Deep Conditioning Treatment
While not a straightening treatment per se, deep conditioning can help tame frizz and improve hair texture, making it more manageable and less likely to tangle, resulting in a smoother, straighter appearance.
DIY Methods for Home Straightening
1. Cold Towel Method
After washing and conditioning your hair, wrap it in a cold, wet towel for 15 minutes. The cool temperature helps seal the hair shaft and keep it straight.
2. Hot Comb Method
Brush your hair straight and apply a heat protectant spray. Use a hot comb to gently run through your hair, starting from the roots and working your way down. Be careful not to overheat your hair.
3. Keratin Treatment
This method involves applying a keratin solution to your hair and then heat-sealing it in. Keratin is a natural protein that strengthens and straightens hair.
4. Brazilian Blowout
Similar to a keratin treatment, a Brazilian blowout uses a formaldehyde-based solution to smooth and straighten hair. It typically lasts for 3-4 months.
5. Japanese Hair Straightening
This permanent treatment involves breaking down the hair’s structure with a chemical solution and then heat-setting it into a straight position. It lasts for several months but may damage hair.
6. Do-It-Yourself Straightening Cream
Make a homemade straightening cream by mixing 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Apply the cream to your hair, cover it with a shower cap, and leave it on for 2-3 hours before rinsing.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Mix 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water and apply it to your hair after shampooing. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. The acidic nature of vinegar helps smooth hair.
8. Banana and Honey Mask
Mash 1 ripe banana with 2 tablespoons of honey and apply it to your hair. Cover it with a shower cap and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing. Bananas and honey are both natural humectants that help moisturize and smooth hair.
9. Homemade Flaxseed Gel
Grind 1 cup of flaxseeds into a powder and mix it with 4 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes a thick gel. Apply the gel to your hair and style as desired. Flaxseed gel is a natural hair gel that provides hold and smooths frizz.
| Homemade Straightening Cream |
|---|
| 1 tablespoon coconut oil |
| 1 tablespoon olive oil |
| 2 tablespoons honey |
Troubleshooting Common Straightening Issues
1. Hair is Still Frizzy
If your hair is still frizzy after straightening, it could be because you didn’t use a heat protectant, or you didn’t apply the straightener evenly. Make sure to use a heat protectant spray before straightening your hair, and be sure to run the straightener over each section of hair multiple times, making sure to apply even pressure.
2. Hair is Too Oily
If your hair is too oily, it may not hold a straight style well. Try washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo before straightening it. You can also use a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil.
3. Hair is Too Dry
If your hair is too dry, it may be more difficult to straighten. Try using a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to add moisture to your hair before straightening it.
4. Hair is Damaged
If your hair is damaged, it may not be able to withstand the heat of a straightener. Avoid straightening your hair too often, and be sure to use a heat protectant spray when you do. You can also try using a lower heat setting on your straightener.
5. Hair is Unevenly Straightened
If your hair is unevenly straightened, it could be because you didn’t section your hair properly. Make sure to section your hair into small sections, and be sure to apply the straightener evenly to each section.
6. Hair is Breaking
If your hair is breaking, it could be because you’re using too much heat or you’re not using a heat protectant. Avoid straightening your hair too often, and be sure to use a heat protectant spray when you do. You can also try using a lower heat setting on your straightener.
7. Hair is Losing Shine
If your hair is losing shine after straightening, it could be because you’re using too much heat. Avoid straightening your hair too often, and be sure to use a heat protectant spray when you do. You can also try using a lower heat setting on your straightener.
8. Hair is Becoming Dry
If your hair is becoming dry after straightening, it could be because you’re using too much heat. Avoid straightening your hair too often, and be sure to use a heat protectant spray when you do. You can also try using a lower heat setting on your straightener.
9. Hair is Tangled
If your hair is tangled after straightening, it could be because you didn’t brush your hair before straightening it. Make sure to brush your hair thoroughly before straightening it, and be sure to use a heat protectant spray when you do.
10. Hair is Still Curling
If your hair is still curling after straightening, it could be because you didn’t use a strong enough hold spray. Try using a strong hold hairspray to keep your hair straight.
How to Straighten Back of Hair
Straightening the back of your hair can be a challenge, but it’s definitely possible with the right tools and techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve smooth, straight locks.
1. Start with clean, dry hair.
The first step to straightening your hair is to make sure it’s clean and dry. If your hair is dirty or wet, it will be more difficult to straighten and you’re more likely to damage it.
2. Section your hair.
Divide your hair into two sections, one on each side of your head. This will make it easier to work with and will help prevent you from getting tangled up.
3. Apply a heat protectant.
Heat protectant is an essential product for anyone who uses heat styling tools. It helps to protect your hair from damage and keeps it looking healthy and shiny.
4. Use a straightener.
Start at the roots of your hair and run the straightener down the length of your hair. Be sure to use even strokes and don’t hold the straightener in one place for too long.
5. Repeat until satisfied.
If your hair is thick or coarse, you may need to go over each section several times to get it completely straight. Be patient and don’t get discouraged. With practice, you’ll be able to straighten your hair quickly and easily.
People Also Ask About How to Straighten Back of Hair
There are a few ways to straighten the back of your hair without a straightener. One way is to use a blow dryer and a brush. Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Then, direct the blow dryer at your hair and use the brush to smooth it down. Another way to straighten your hair without a straightener is to use a hair dryer and a comb. This method is similar to the blow dryer and brush method, but you will use a comb instead of a brush. Finally, you can also use a hot air brush to straighten your hair. This is a good option if you want to add volume to your hair as well as straighten it.
The best way to straighten thick hair is to use a combination of heat and tension. Start by applying a heat protectant to your hair. Then, use a blow dryer and a brush to blow out your hair. Once your hair is completely dry, use a flat iron to straighten it. Be sure to use even strokes and don’t hold the flat iron in one place for too long. If your hair is very thick, you may need to go over each section several times to get it completely straight.
There are a few things you can do to keep your hair straight overnight. One way is to braid your hair. This will help to hold your hair in place and prevent it from becoming tangled. Another way to keep your hair straight overnight is to use a hair wrap. Hair wraps are made of a soft, stretchy material that helps to hold your hair in place and protect it from damage. Finally, you can also use a silk pillowcase. Silk pillowcases are gentle on your hair and help to reduce friction, which can cause your hair to become frizzy and tangled.
There are a few ways to straighten the back of your hair without a straightener. One way is to use a blow dryer and a brush. Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Then, direct the blow dryer at your hair and use the brush to smooth it down. Another way to straighten your hair without a straightener is to use a hair dryer and a comb. This method is similar to the blow dryer and brush method, but you will use a comb instead of a brush. Finally, you can also use a hot air brush to straighten your hair. This is a good option if you want to add volume to your hair as well as straighten it.
The best way to straighten thick hair is to use a combination of heat and tension. Start by applying a heat protectant to your hair. Then, use a blow dryer and a brush to blow out your hair. Once your hair is completely dry, use a flat iron to straighten it. Be sure to use even strokes and don’t hold the flat iron in one place for too long. If your hair is very thick, you may need to go over each section several times to get it completely straight.
There are a few things you can do to keep your hair straight overnight. One way is to braid your hair. This will help to hold your hair in place and prevent it from becoming tangled. Another way to keep your hair straight overnight is to use a hair wrap. Hair wraps are made of a soft, stretchy material that helps to hold your hair in place and protect it from damage. Finally, you can also use a silk pillowcase. Silk pillowcases are gentle on your hair and help to reduce friction, which can cause your hair to become frizzy and tangled.
The best way to straighten thick hair is to use a combination of heat and tension. Start by applying a heat protectant to your hair. Then, use a blow dryer and a brush to blow out your hair. Once your hair is completely dry, use a flat iron to straighten it. Be sure to use even strokes and don’t hold the flat iron in one place for too long. If your hair is very thick, you may need to go over each section several times to get it completely straight.
There are a few things you can do to keep your hair straight overnight. One way is to braid your hair. This will help to hold your hair in place and prevent it from becoming tangled. Another way to keep your hair straight overnight is to use a hair wrap. Hair wraps are made of a soft, stretchy material that helps to hold your hair in place and protect it from damage. Finally, you can also use a silk pillowcase. Silk pillowcases are gentle on your hair and help to reduce friction, which can cause your hair to become frizzy and tangled.
There are a few things you can do to keep your hair straight overnight. One way is to braid your hair. This will help to hold your hair in place and prevent it from becoming tangled. Another way to keep your hair straight overnight is to use a hair wrap. Hair wraps are made of a soft, stretchy material that helps to hold your hair in place and protect it from damage. Finally, you can also use a silk pillowcase. Silk pillowcases are gentle on your hair and help to reduce friction, which can cause your hair to become frizzy and tangled.
