So what is a silk press?
The professional styling method known as a “silk press” is a non-chemical process of transforming natural-textured hair to a super-softened state, allowing it to be easily straightened through heat-styling. The silk press method allows natural hair to look like it is relaxed for a short period of time. The natural hair looks very smooth, silky and straight using sufficient heat protectants and a good flat iron. However, the benefit of this style is that if done properly, your hair is natural hair (non relaxed hair) should revert back after washing it. In this article I will share with you 5 Tips for a Silk Press that You’ll Love and How to Make it Last.
Photo Credit: @Tre_ismyname on Instagram
How long does a silk press typically last?
One of the most frequently asked questions about the Silk Press is how long does it usually lasts. The longevity depends. However, it normally lasts for two weeks. It can sometimes last much longer as long as the hair hasn’t been wet down. If the hair comes into any contact with moisture from water, humidity or sweat, it will begin to convert back to its natural curl.
Photo Credit: @thehairkitchen_ on Instagram
5 Ways to Make Your Silk Press Last Even Longer
It’s already a given that we would want our silk press to last for a good amount of time. However as I have mentioned before your silk press will normally last for approximately 2-3 weeks max.
#1 Keep Your Split Ends at Bay
Trim your ends regularly. When your hair has been straightened it’s easier to see those split ends so ensure that your hair is trimmed when you decide to wear it straight.
2. Opt for Flat Curls
Curling those layers of natural curls into bouncy curls will look majestic. Opt for a smooth, flat silk press with a light curl on the ends. It will be easier to maintain and less likely to revert as easily.
Photo credit: @W.StyleLounge on Instagram
3. Use Less Products
To keep your strands bouncy and silky, avoid using too much product, which will cause the hair to look weighed down.
Photo Credit: @jasblack on Instagram
4. Avoid Moisture
Try your best to avoid getting any moisture in your hair. The smallest amount of moisture and/or humidity in the air will have your freshly silk pressed hair looking frizzy and puffy. In the shower, make sure you wrap your hair with a satin scarf and a shower cap!
5. Wrap Your Hair
If you’re not into the mood of keeping your hair down, secure your strands with a silk wrap. Keeping it wrapped will shield your mane from environmental factors like wind, humidity, or harsh weather which could potentially ruin your hair.
Photo Credit: @keystylist on Instagram
This article was originally posted on June 4, 2018 and was updated on February 3, 2021.
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Thank you so much for creating this site! Can you speak to the products used to prevent heat damage of hair when flat ironing? What’s a good flat iron that doesn’t make your hair smell burnt? Thank you!??????
I am a stylist in ozark,Al and would love to know what products that the guy [email protected] use for his silk press thanks
I’m natural and sweat in my head a lot so it’s hard to keep my hair straight and curled.
Nice. I would love to find a great stylist.
I like what I see
Thank you!
What if your head sweat a lot
I c the cut that I want u have a place in Hampton Va I want the rainbow styles with the hideaway colors
Hi, I’m actually based in Austin, TX but I’m not a hairstylist. We do feature stylists from all over, including Chicago. Check out our Instagram @VoiceOfHair and Facebook Page @VoiceOfHair for more.
I am from Ga. retired, I keep my hair breaded. But ready to take it down. What is the best conditioner and product to use for silk press. Also what name brand flat iron should I purchase.
I would like to get this done.
I will my hair
But it’s been months the silk haven’t taken out yet
How should I get back to my natural hair again please help
I would like thes product
Hi Rufida! You can get the product at VoiceOfHairCare.com
Hi Rufida, a great product to help your silk press last longer is our VoiceOfHair Elixir. You can find it at VoiceOfHaircare.com
I have always gotten my hair done in a salon.Even as a little girl, I always went to the beauty shop with my Mom. Since the pandemic I’ve gone natural since I’ve been unable to visit my stylist. The last time my hair was permed was the end of February or first week of March. I purchased several products and have been doing my own hair. I really want to start flat ironing my hair or silk pressing it. Is it too soon? How long should I wait before I start silk pressing it? I don’t want to put heat on it too soon.