Master the Art of Hard Pressing Hair- A Comprehensive Guide to Achieving Sleek and Lustrous Locks
How to Hard Press Hair: Achieve Luscious, Straight Locks at Home
Hard pressing hair, also known as thermal reconditioning, is a popular hair straightening technique that provides long-lasting straightness and reduces frizz. If you’re looking to achieve sleek, straight locks without the hassle of daily straightening, hard pressing hair might be the perfect solution for you. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to hard press hair, ensuring you get professional results at home.
Before you begin, it’s essential to prepare your hair for the hard pressing process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to hard press hair:
1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Products
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and products for hard pressing hair:
- Thermal reconditioning kit (including cream, solution, neutralizer, and brush)
- Detangler spray
- Comb or brush
- Thermal protection spray
- Clips to section hair
- Heat protectant serum or oil
2. Prepare Your Hair
Begin by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product build-up or residue. This will help the thermal reconditioning solution penetrate your hair more effectively. After washing, towel-dry your hair until it’s slightly damp but not dripping wet.
3. Apply Thermal Protection
Before applying the thermal reconditioning cream, spritz your hair with a thermal protection spray or apply a heat protectant serum or oil. This will help shield your hair from the high heat of the flat iron, reducing the risk of damage.
4. Apply the Thermal Reconditioning Cream
Section your hair into four quadrants and apply the thermal reconditioning cream to each section. Make sure to cover the entire length of your hair, from roots to ends. The cream should be applied liberally, but not so much that it drips down your face or neck.
5. Apply the Solution
After applying the cream, wait for the recommended time (usually 20-30 minutes) for the cream to work its magic. Once the time has passed, apply the solution to the same sections of hair. The solution will help break down the hair’s protein bonds, making it easier to straighten.
6. Comb Through the Hair
Using a wide-tooth comb or brush, gently comb through the hair to remove any tangles or knots. This step is crucial to ensure that the hair is evenly straightened during the hard pressing process.
7. Apply the Neutralizer
After combing through the hair, apply the neutralizer to each section. The neutralizer will help to seal the hair cuticles and lock in the straightness. Follow the instructions on the neutralizer bottle for the recommended application time.
8. Rinse and Condition
Once the neutralizer has been applied and the recommended time has passed, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to nourish and strengthen your hair. This step is crucial to ensure your hair remains healthy and hydrated after the hard pressing process.
9. Dry and Style
After rinsing and conditioning, gently towel-dry your hair. Avoid rubbing your hair with a towel, as this can cause frizz and breakage. Once your hair is slightly damp, apply a heat protectant serum or oil and use a flat iron to straighten your hair. Make sure to use a heat protectant spray or serum on your flat iron to minimize damage.
And there you have it! You’ve successfully hard pressed your hair. Enjoy your sleek, straight locks for weeks to come. Remember to maintain your hard-pressed hair by using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, and avoiding excessive heat styling.
