Smoothening: How to Take Care of Your Hair After Smoothening

Hair Care After Smoothening

Smoothening your hair can give you beautiful, sleek, and manageable locks. However, it’s important to take proper care of your hair after the smoothening process to maintain its health and shine. In this blog post, we will discuss some essential tips to help you care for your hair after smoothening.

1. Avoid Washing Your Hair for the First 48 Hours

After smoothening your hair, it’s crucial to avoid washing it for at least 48 hours. This allows the smoothening treatment to settle in and ensures long-lasting results. If you wash your hair too soon, you may disrupt the smoothening process and weaken its effects.

2. Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner

To maintain the smoothness and shine of your hair, opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. Sulfates can strip away the natural oils from your hair and make it dry and frizzy. Look for products specifically formulated for chemically treated hair to nourish and protect your smoothened locks.

3. Deep Condition Your Hair Regularly

Deep conditioning is essential after smoothening your hair. It helps to restore moisture, repair any damage caused during the smoothening process, and keep your hair healthy. Use a deep conditioning mask once a week or as recommended by your hairstylist to maintain the softness and manageability of your hair.

4. Avoid Heat Styling Tools

Excessive heat styling can cause damage to your smoothened hair. Avoid using heat styling tools such as straighteners, curling irons, or blow dryers as much as possible. If you must use them, make sure to apply a heat protectant spray to minimize damage.

5. Protect Your Hair from Sun and Chlorine

UV rays from the sun and chlorine from swimming pools can fade the color and weaken the smoothening effects on your hair. To protect your hair, wear a hat or use a UV-protective spray before stepping out in the sun. Additionally, rinse your hair with clean water before and after swimming to minimize chlorine damage.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your smoothened hair remains healthy, shiny, and frizz-free. Remember to consult with your hairstylist for personalized advice and recommendations based on your hair type and texture.

Hair smoothening is a fantastic way to achieve silky, smooth locks. But once you’ve had the treatment, it’s essential to take good care of your hair to maintain those fabulous results. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for caring for your hair after smoothening, ensuring it stays beautiful and healthy.

Immediate Care After Smoothening

Right after your smoothening treatment, your hair needs some special attention:

1. Gentle Shampoo and Conditioning: Use a sulfate-free, mild shampoo and conditioner recommended by your hairstylist. These products are gentle on your newly treated hair.
2. Drying Techniques: After washing, gently pat your hair dry with a soft towel. Avoid vigorous rubbing, as your hair is more fragile at this stage. Let it air dry or use a diffuser attachment on a low-heat setting if you must blow dry.
3. Hands Off: Keep your hands off your hair as much as possible during the first few days. Touching can transfer oils and disrupt the smoothening process.

Long-Term Maintenance

Maintaining smoothened hair over the long term requires a consistent routine:

1. Choosing the Right Products: Use products designed for smoothened hair, such as sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. These products help maintain your hair’s smooth texture.
2. Hair Care Routine: Establish a regular hair care routine that includes washing, conditioning, and styling. Your hairstylist can recommend the ideal frequency based on your hair type.
3. Gentle Handling: Always be gentle when handling your hair, whether combing or styling. Avoid tugging, pulling, or using excessive force.
4. Heat Styling: If you use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray before styling. Use the lowest effective heat setting to minimize damage.
5. Protect from UV: Prolonged sun exposure can harm your smoothened hair. Wear a hat or use UV protection products when outdoors.
6. Regular Trims: Schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends and maintain a smooth appearance.

By following these tips for immediate care and long-term maintenance, you can ensure that your smoothened hair remains beautiful and manageable. In the next section, we’ll explore the importance of protecting your hair from heat and UV damage.

Protection from Heat and UV

Exposing your smoothened hair to excessive heat and ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to damage and loss of that beautiful smoothness. Here’s how to safeguard your hair from these elements:

1. Heat Protectants: Before using heated styling tools like straighteners or curling irons, apply a heat protectant spray or serum. This creates a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing the risk of damage.

2. Low Heat Settings: When styling your hair, opt for the lowest effective heat setting. Smoothened hair is more susceptible to heat damage, so be cautious not to overheat it.

3. Air-Dry Whenever Possible: If you have the time, let your hair air dry instead of using a blow dryer. This is the gentlest way to dry your hair and maintain its smoothness.

4. Protective Hairstyles: On hot, sunny days, consider wearing protective hairstyles like loose buns or braids. These styles help shield your hair from direct sun exposure and UV rays.

5. UV-Protectant Products: Look for hair products that offer UV protection. These products create a protective layer on your hair to minimize damage caused by sun exposure.

6. Wide-Brimmed Hats: Invest in a stylish wide-brimmed hat for outdoor activities. It provides excellent shade for your hair and adds a fashionable touch to your look.

By taking these precautions, you’ll help preserve the smoothness of your smoothened hair and prevent damage from heat and UV rays. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to protect your hair when swimming in chlorine or saltwater.

Avoiding Chlorine and Saltwater Damage

Enjoying a swim is fantastic, but chlorine and saltwater can be harsh on your smoothened hair. Here’s how to protect your locks:

1. Pre-Swim Preparation:

• Wet Your Hair: Before diving into the pool or ocean, wet your hair thoroughly with fresh water. Wet hair is less likely to absorb as much chlorinated or saltwater.
• Use a Swim Cap: Consider wearing a swim cap to shield your hair from direct contact with pool water. Swim caps also help keep your hair dry and protected.

2. Post-Swim Hair Care:

• Rinse Immediately: After swimming, rinse your hair again with fresh water. This helps remove chlorine or saltwater residues.
• Shampoo and Condition: Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner designed for swimmers to cleanse your hair thoroughly. These products are formulated to remove chlorine and saltwater effectively.
• Deep Condition: Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to replenish moisture and repair any potential damage caused by chlorine or saltwater.

3. Protective Hairstyles:

• Consider wearing protective hairstyles like braids or buns when swimming. This can help minimize the exposure of your smoothened hair to pool water.

4. Leave-In Conditioners:

• Apply a leave-in conditioner before swimming. It can create a protective barrier, reducing the absorption of pool chemicals or saltwater.

5. Regular Hair Masks:

• Use hydrating hair masks to keep your hair moisturized and resilient against the drying effects of chlorine and salt.

By following these steps, you can enjoy your swim while keeping your smoothened hair protected from the potential damage caused by chlorine and saltwater. In the next section, we’ll address a common issue: dealing with frizz and flyaways.

Dealing with Frizz and Flyaways

After smoothening your hair, you’ll want to keep it looking sleek and free from frizz or flyaways. Here’s how to manage these common issues:

1. Use Anti-Frizz Products:

• Invest in high-quality anti-frizz products like serums, creams, or sprays. These products can help smooth down unruly strands and keep frizz at bay.

2. Comb Your Hair Gently:

• When combing your hair, use a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for smoothened hair. Start from the tips and work your way up to avoid causing frizz.

3. Avoid Humidity:

• Humidity can exacerbate frizz. Consider using an umbrella or wearing a hat on humid days to protect your hair from moisture.

4. Regular Hair Trims:

• Schedule regular trims to get rid of split ends and maintain a sleek appearance. Trimming also prevents frizz from spreading up the hair shaft.

5. Overnight Care:

• Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction while sleeping. This can help prevent frizz and maintain your hair’s smoothness.

6. Frizz-Reducing Hair Masks:

• Incorporate frizz-reducing hair masks into your routine. These masks provide deep hydration and help keep your hair smooth and manageable.

7. Avoid Excessive Touching:

• Limit touching or running your fingers through your hair throughout the day. This can transfer oils and contribute to frizz.

8. Tame Flyaways with Serum:

• Apply a small amount of anti-frizz serum to your fingertips and gently smooth down any flyaways. Avoid using too much product, as it can make your hair appear greasy.

By following these tips, you can maintain a sleek and frizz-free look for your smoothened hair, even in challenging weather conditions. In the next section, we’ll discuss the importance of regular trims and maintenance.

Regular Trims and Maintenance

Maintaining the sleek appearance of your smoothened hair involves regular trims and ongoing care:

1. Scheduled Trims:

• Schedule trims every 6-8 weeks to keep your hair in top shape. This prevents split ends from forming and maintains a smooth appearance.

2. Prevent Split Ends:

• Split ends can travel up the hair shaft and cause more extensive damage. Trimming helps prevent this and keeps your hair looking its best.

3. Trim Frequency:

• Consult your hairstylist for the ideal trim frequency based on your hair type and the rate at which your hair grows.

4. Healthy Hair Ends:

• Well-maintained ends contribute to the overall health and appearance of your hair. You’ll notice that your hair looks neater and smoother after a trim.

5. Avoid Self-Trimming:

• While it may be tempting to trim your hair at home, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Self-trimming can lead to uneven cuts and potential damage.

6. Discuss Your Goals:

• During your salon visits, communicate your styling goals and any concerns with your hairstylist. They can offer personalized advice for your hair type and desired look.

7. Professional Touch:

• A professional hairstylist can assess the condition of your hair and provide specialized treatments or recommendations for maintaining its smoothness.

By prioritizing regular trims and ongoing maintenance, you’ll ensure that your smoothened hair remains sleek, free from split ends, and consistently stunning. In the next section, we’ll share expert tips from hairstylists for post-smoothening hair care.

Expert Tips for Post-Smoothening Hair Care

Hairstylists have valuable insights to share when it comes to caring for smoothened hair. Here are some expert tips to help you maintain your hair’s smoothness:

1. Professional Consultation:

• Schedule a consultation with your hairstylist before and after smoothening. They can assess your hair’s condition and recommend the most suitable treatments and products.

2. Hair Type Matters:

• Consider your hair type when choosing products and treatments. Different hair types require different care routines.

3. Tailored Haircare Products:

• Invest in professional-grade shampoos, conditioners, and styling products recommended by your hairstylist. These products are designed to maintain your specific hair treatment.

4. Avoid DIY Treatments:

• Avoid attempting DIY hair treatments or coloring after smoothening. Trust your hairstylist for any additional services you may want.

5. Protective Serums:

• Use a protective serum before heat styling. Your hairstylist can recommend a product that suits your hair’s needs.

6. Seasonal Adjustments:

• Adjust your haircare routine seasonally. For example, you might need more hydration in the winter and extra UV protection in the summer.

7. Clarifying Shampoo:

• Periodically use a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup. This helps maintain the effectiveness of your smoothening treatment.

8. Scalp Health:

• Pay attention to your scalp’s health. A healthy scalp supports the overall condition of your hair.

9. Avoid Over-Washing:

• Don’t over-wash your hair. Smoothened hair benefits from a balance of natural oils. Washing it too frequently can strip away these oils.

10. Professional Touch-Ups:–

Schedule professional touch-ups as needed to keep your smoothening treatment looking fresh and well-maintained.

Remember that your hairstylist is your best resource for personalized advice and solutions to keep your smoothened hair in excellent condition. In the next section, we’ll address some common questions about post-smoothening hair care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Post-Smoothening Hair Care

Let’s answer some common questions about caring for your hair after smoothening:

1. How long does smoothening last?

• The duration of smoothening results varies from person to person, but it typically lasts between 2 to 4 months. Proper maintenance can extend its longevity.

2. Can I color my hair after smoothening?

• It’s best to consult your hairstylist before coloring smoothened hair. Some treatments can affect the outcome of hair coloring, so professional advice is crucial.

3. What should I do if I experience hair loss or damage?

• If you notice excessive hair loss or damage, consult your hairstylist or a dermatologist. They can assess the issue and recommend appropriate treatments.

4. Can I use regular haircare products on smoothened hair?

• While you can use regular products, it’s advisable to use those specifically designed for smoothened hair. These products are gentler and more suitable for maintaining the treatment.

5. How can I maintain smoothness in high humidity?

• Use anti-frizz products, avoid excessive touching, and consider protective hairstyles to combat frizz on humid days.

6. Is it necessary to use a special brush or comb for smoothened hair?

• Using a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for smoothened hair is recommended. These tools are gentler on your treated hair and help prevent damage.

7. Can I swim with smoothened hair?

• Yes, you can swim with smoothened hair, but it’s essential to take precautions like wetting your hair before swimming, wearing a swim cap, and rinsing and using specialized products afterward.

8. Can I go back to my regular haircare routine after smoothening wears off?

• Once the smoothening treatment fades, you can return to your regular haircare routine. However, it’s essential to continue using suitable products for your hair type.

These answers should provide guidance for common concerns about post-smoothening hair care. In the conclusion, we’ll summarize the key takeaways from this comprehensive guide.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ramesh Gaddam, MD

General Physician, Diabetologist, and Critical Care Specialist.