For anyone with natural curls, the temptation of getting a sleek, smooth silk press can be undeniable. This hair transformation allows you to temporarily embrace a much more different look since your curls are straightened out. Read on as we delve into the details and understand the dynamics of this now popular styling technique.
A silk press is a non-chemical straightening service typically performed on curly or kinky hair. To achieve a silk press, your hair is shampooed, blow dried, and then “pressed” with a flat iron.
Unlike chemical straightening treatments like relaxing and texturizing, a silk press is temporary and doesn’t alter the hair’s structure permanently.
It has become a popular choice for those seeking a temporary hair texture change without the commitment of a long-lasting straightening process.
The good news for natural hair enthusiasts is that, yes, your curls can generally return to their natural pattern after a silk press. Natural curls are incredibly versatile and have a remarkable ability to bounce back even after heat styling. This is especially possible when your curls are treated with proper care prior.
One of the magical aspects of natural curls is their reaction to water. Wetting or washing your hair can serve as a reset button, allowing your curls to spring back to life should you desire it. This is a crucial feature that adds to the adaptability of natural hair, allowing you to try out various looks without sacrificing the integrity of your curls.
TikTok user, Sharatia Banks shows us how you can use water as a reset button:
Several factors influence how well natural hair returns to its original curl pattern, whether after a silk press or a regular blow out:
Healthy hair is more resilient to the effects of heat. However, frequent use of heat can compromise the health of your hair. Regular deep conditioning and moisturizing prior to your silk press appointment can help maintain the health of your curls, making them more likely to revert after exposure to water.
Another crucial factor is the styling tools’ temperature. Lower heat settings during a silk press are generally kinder to the hair and can help you achieve a smoother reversion if you’re looking to have your hair in that state for a short period.
If you regularly cleanse or moisturize your hair with water-based moisturizers like our Tsavorite Spritz Moisturizer Hair Spray, this can help your curls remain intact and prevent them from experiencing prolonged stress from various styling methods.
Minimize over-manipulation of your silk pressed hair to prevent unnecessary stress on the curls.
Give your hair time. After a silk press, the reversion process might not happen right away, but with time and the right maintenance, your natural curls should progressively come back, demonstrating their ability to withstand heat.
A silk press is essentially a hair makeover that lets you enjoy a new look without permanently losing your natural curls. You can confidently rock your curls again even after going through with a silk press if you put your hair’s health first, using heat sparingly, and adopt a thoughtful after-silk press care regimen. After all, one of the most beloved aspects of natural hair is its versatility, even in the face of heat.