Silk presses are a common practice in which one gets silky and straight hair without applying harsh chemicals. This step-by-step guide will explain how to do a silk press at home to get the best silk press as you’re at the salon. By following these tips and techniques, you can get the beautiful silky hair that you’ve been desiring.
What is a Silk Press and How Does it Differ from a Flat Iron?
A silk press is a hair straightening process that is achieved by the use of heat and some products to get shiny hair. Unlike flat ironing used to straighten the hair, the silk press attains the silky feel, lightweight, and health of the hair. It entails systematic steps in handling hair, such as washing, conditioning, and utilizing particular equipment and substances on the hair to get the best results.
Comparison Between a Silk Press and a Flat Iron
While both a silk press and a flat iron aim to straighten hair, there are several key differences between the two techniques:
- Heat Level and Control: Silk presses work at a lower temperature than other flat irons. Its goal is to straighten the hair without causing damage. Flat ironing often uses more heat, therefore causing heat-related harm and dryness.
- Products Used: Silk presses entail using heat protectants, serums, and light oils to give them a nice shiny look and add moisture. Skipping this step leads to a less polished finish and might damage your hair.
- Technique and Precision: Silk presses include meticulous sectioning of the hair into small parts so that the heat would be distributed evenly. Flat ironing uses large parts of the hair, making the straightening less precise and neat.
- End Result: Silk presses help you achieve a lightweight feel, bounce, and natural appearance that moves and has volume. However, flat ironing creates a straight and unnatural-moving hairstyle.
- Durability and Maintenance: A well-done silk press can last up to two weeks, depending on how you care for it. Flat-ironed hair may require frequent resealing, especially when the weather is humid.
For a more detailed comparison between a silk press and a flat iron, feel free to read this article on what is a silk press.
What Tools and Products Do You Need for a Silk Press at Home?
After knowing how to do a silk press at home, you should also learn how to select tools and products for the proper silk press. Here’s a list of everything you need:
Essential tools you should have:
- Wide-tooth comb
- Rat-tail comb
- Hair clips
- Boar bristle brush
- Importance of using a high-quality straightener:
- Even Heat Distribution: A high-quality straightener has a flat surface that distributes heat uniformly across the hair and prevents hot spots that would harm your hair.
- Temperature Control: Controlling the temperature will help reduce the heat exposure.
- Advanced Features: High-quality straighteners often come with either ceramic or titanium-coated plates, which gives your hair a smooth glide, thus eliminating the frizz and giving your hair a silky finish.
- Durability: Investing in a reliable, high-performance straightener ensures long-term use and consistent results.
- Professional Results: Using a good straightener will help you get salon-quality results with a shiny hairstyle.
With these benefits, you should find a good hair straightener today! Check out NuMe’s straightener collection for a salon-quality look.
How to Do a Silk Press at Home
Prepare Your Hair for a Silk Press
Proper preparation is key to a smooth silk press. Follow these steps to wash, condition, and thoroughly dry your hair before you start on how to do a silk press at home:
- Washing and conditioning: Avoid using sulfate-based shampoos for your hair, as it may create a layer that is hard to remove. Then, apply a conditioner to hydrate and get ready for styling with heat.
- Deep conditioning treatment: Apply a deep conditioner to make your hair healthier and moisturized. Leave it in for 15-30 minutes, then remove it thoroughly.
- Thoroughly drying hair: If your hair is still damp, use either air dry or blow dryer on low heat till your hair is dry. Ensure it is dry before using the straightener and prevent damage.
Section Your Hair
Sectioning is key for a smooth, even silk press, allowing you to focus on small, manageable portions of your hair. Use clips to part it into 4-6 clips, depending on its length. First, comb your hair from the middle, then create horizontal sections to ensure your hair is styled properly. Twist and clip each section to make them easier to manage and prevent tangling, making the whole process easier.
Properly Use a Straightener for a Silk Press
Using a straightener correctly is essential for a perfect silk press.
Take a small amount of heat protectant spray to each section. Adjust the straightener’s temperature to between 350-400°F based on your hair type.
Work in 1-2 inch sections, starting at the roots and gliding down to the ends. Pass the straightener over each section once or twice, using a comb for even heat distribution.
Using serums and oils to enhance the press
Remember to find out the best products to succeed in how to do a silk press at home and get a perfect look. After straightening, use a serum or oil to make your hair shinier and smoother.
Finally, ensure that you concentrate on the ends of your hair to avoid dry and frizzy hair. Also, don’t apply too much product on your hair, since this can make your hair appear lank.
How Do You Maintain Your Silk Press?
Keeping your silk press looking fresh requires daily maintenance and care. Here are some tips on how to do a silk press at home to make silk press last long while still looking glossy:
- Daily maintenance tips: Do not wet your hair or expose it to humid conditions to keep your silk press fresh. Put on a silk or satin scarf around your hair at night and use a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent the frizzy look.
- Nighttime care routine: Use a leave-in conditioner or oil before bed. Braid or twist it loosely, then cover it with a silk or satin scarf to maintain smoothness and prevent damage.
- Extending the life of your silk press: Avoid high temperatures and styling products. Choose low-manipulation styles like buns or ponytails, and use a lightweight dry shampoo to keep your hair grease-free and tamed.
Bottom Line
Knowing how to do a silk press at home is possible with the right tools, products, and techniques. By following this guide, you can save lots of money but still enjoy salon-like results and maintain your hair’s health and shine.
Gather your tools and begin your silk press journey today! Use a high-quality straightener from a professional brand such as NuMe to get the best results.
