Achieving perfectly straightened hair requires precision, technique, and targeted products. However, this result doesn't last without special attention from the very first days. If you've just had a straightening treatment, you're probably wondering how to keep your locks soft, shiny, and frizz-free for as long as possible. In this article, we'll guide you step by step to make your straightening treatment last and prolong its visible effects by carefully adapting your hair care routine .
What care should be taken after straightening to preserve its effect?
The quality of a straightening treatment , whether carried out in a salon or using our Brazilian straightening kit , depends in particular on the care you apply in the days that follow . This period is sensitive: the hair fiber is still in the stabilization phase, and any error can compromise the hold of the straightening treatment.
Respect the post-smoothing fixing phase ⏳
The first 72 hours following a straightening treatment represent an essential resting phase for the hair. During this time, the fixing agents (keratin, tannin, amino acids) gradually anchor themselves in the fiber. Any contact with water or humid heat weakens this fixation.
It is therefore essential to:
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Do not wet hair
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Avoid ties, elastics, headbands or clips
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Do not use a hair straightener, hair dryer or steamer
These simple steps allow the fiber to remain smooth, without marks or creases, to guarantee a uniform and lasting result.
Wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo 🚿
Once the resting phase is over, maintenance begins with a shampoo that respects the smoothing process . It is essential to avoid formulas containing sulfates (SLS, SLES), which are known to damage the proteins fixed during treatment.
Use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo enriched with lipid-replenishing agents. Ideally, space out washes to 2 or 3 times a week to prolong the protective film around the hair and prevent premature opening of the scales.
We recommend one of our sulfate -free shampoos , including our purifying shampoo from our smoothing kit, which gently cleanses while maintaining scalp balance. Its glyoxylic acid and formaldehyde- free formulation is ideal for straightened hair.
Moisturize your hair with a mask once or twice a week 💧
Straightening tends to reduce hair's ability to retain water. As a result, lengths can become dry, dull, and stiff if not adequately hydrated.
A hydrating mask applied once or twice a week helps restore the fiber's suppleness and prevent breakage. Deep hydration limits the "straw" effect and restores a silky feel, while extending the hold of the straightening treatment.
This hydrating hair mask combines hyaluronic acid, silk proteins, and plant-based glycerin. It plumps the hair fiber from within without weighing it down. Leave on for 5 to 10 minutes on well-dried hair, focusing on the lengths and ends.
What daily routine should I use to prolong the hold of my straightening treatment ?
Once the post-straightening phase is over, maintaining flawless straightened hair relies on simple but consistent steps. The goal is to limit external aggressions and strengthen the hair fiber to prevent frizz, breakage, or loosening of the straightening treatment.
Here are the 4 pillars of an effective daily routine to adopt :
Protect your hair from humidity ☔
Humidity is the number one enemy of straightened hair. It directly affects the fiber, making it swell and altering the smooth appearance. In case of rain or steam (kitchen, bathroom, hammam), remember to cover your lengths with a silk scarf or a waterproof hood. During hot showers, tie your hair back and avoid prolonged exposure to steam.
Another useful reflex: avoid confined and overly hot environments without ventilation, especially if you have significant sweating at the scalp level.
Apply a protective oil every morning 🌿
Incorporating a hair oil into your morning routine strengthens hair protection. It deposits a lipid film that acts as a barrier against external aggressions: humidity, UV rays, textile friction, pollution.
Hair oil is perfectly suited for this daily use: its light texture does not grease the fiber, but provides shine and discipline from the first application. Distribute 2 to 3 drops on the lengths and ends, on dry or damp hair, then comb gently.
Brush without breaking the hair fiber 🪮
A bad brush or too rough of movements can compromise your straightening in just a few days. Opt for a soft brush with natural bristles and always brush from the ends to the roots to detangle without pulling. This action also stimulates microcirculation in the scalp, which promotes more harmonious growth.
Absolutely avoid brushing your wet hair, when the fiber is most vulnerable.
Adopt the right actions before going to sleep 💤
At night, your hair continues to suffer micro-aggressions. Friction against bedding, moisture absorption by cotton, or involuntary movements can alter the hold of the straightening treatment. To protect the hair fiber while you sleep, a few adjustments are all it takes.
Choose a satin or natural silk pillowcase.
Unlike cotton, these materials glide over the hair without snagging. The result: less breakage, less frizz, and a Brazilian straightening treatment that stays clean when you wake up. Silk, in particular, is hypoallergenic and preserves the lengths' moisture, which is essential after a keratin treatment.
Before bed, detangle your hair with a soft brush to remove any residue from the day and boost circulation to the scalp. This prepares the hair fiber to better receive nighttime care, especially if you apply a serum or light oil.
Next, tie your hair into a loose braid, a low ponytail, or a messy bun. Avoid tight ties that can leave marks. The idea is to keep the lengths aligned, without excessive pressure, to prevent waves or flyaways in the morning.
If your hair is very long or damaged, you can also wrap your hair in a silk bonnet or use a silk pillowcase . This action limits direct contact with the pillow and further secures the smooth effect throughout the night.
Nourish your ends with a repairing serum ✨
Finally, target the areas most exposed to damage: the ends. Two to three times a week, apply a small amount of hair serum to dry hair. This treatment concentrates smoothing and repairing active ingredients that seal the cuticles, limit split ends and prolong the smoothness of the straightening .
Its formula, free of weighting silicone, is ideal for maintaining the hair's lightness while ensuring a silky feel.
A well-maintained straightening treatment promises manageable, shiny, and silky hair for several weeks. By adopting the right care from the very first days, then establishing a protective and nourishing routine, you can extend the effects of your straightening treatment for up to three months. Myriam K products have been formulated to meet these specific needs, combining professional effectiveness with daily softness.
To further enhance the results, incorporate a Add a hair scrub to your weekly ritual to cleanse your scalp and rely on hair supplements to support the fiber from the inside.
FAQ on how to make your straightening last
How to maintain a Brazilian straightening treatment?
Use sulfate-free treatments to avoid damaging keratin. Our post-straightening shampoo is designed to prolong the effects of the treatment.
Can you go swimming after straightening?
Chlorine can weaken the effects of straightening if not rinsed out promptly. Protect your hair with a cap and apply a nourishing mask afterward.
Should I space out my shampoos after straightening?
Yes, two to three washes per week are enough to maintain the smooth effect for longer. A gentle shampoo will keep the smoothing effect lasting.
Are hair oils compatible?
Yes, if they are light and silicone-free. They nourish the lengths without altering the smoothed structure.
