Thinking of getting a silk press? Well, here's what you need to know.

Photo via Instagram by _@fullerhair_bycina

Is it just us or are more people getting a silk-press? Have you thought about getting one too? Or perhaps you’re still deciding. Whatever it is, we are here to give you the 411 so you can make an informed decision.

What is a Silk Press?

A silk press is a temporary method of straightening natural kinky, coily & curly hair types without the use of a chemical relaxer. Instead, this hairstyling technique uses a blow-dryer and flat iron to smooth out the hair. A silk press however is not the same thing as a traditional press and curl. The aim with any silk press is to use less heat to your strands in order to give your hair movement, volume and a silky, shiny finish.

So, what is the difference between a silk press and just flat ironing your hair? Well, the biggest difference between a silk press and flat ironing is that the former is a styling technique and the latter, a tool with which a silk press can be achieved. In order to achieve the perfect silk press, the holy trinity of right tools, at the right temperature with the right products must be observed.

Why should you get a silk press? Here are some reasons why:

1. No chemical damage

Silk pressing does not involve using any chemicals and relaxers. It uses only natural oils, deep conditioners and protective hair serums in order to achieve sleek, smooth hair.

2. New look, new you!

Silk pressing is the easiest way to change your look. It is not as time-consuming as permanent straightening or getting a protective style done. It’s also a fun way to experience your hair in a different form.

3. Easy To Style

Silky, smooth hair that does not need any manipulation to lie flat is a plus! Plus, finding different ways of styling a silk press is easy and less time consuming.

4. Ensures Healthy Hair

Relaxers aren’t the best way to go about straightening your hair because of the chemical processing and the alteration of your natural curl pattern. Silk pressing on the other hand does not cause permanent damage to the hair structure.

5. Low Maintenance

A silk press needs no work from you other than avoiding water. So at night, wrap your hair in a silk cloth - as you normally do - and go about your business. Tomorrow, you’ll wake up with lovely, silky hair.

Before you rush on over to the salon to get yourself a silk press, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. You need to stop using any oils or heavy products before getting a silk press because clogged hair follicles will not aid in getting optimal results.

2. If you don’t keep up with your trims, you should get one done before a silk press. The last thing you want is split ends keeping your hair from the flow of effortless, silky movement.

3. If you’re planning a coastal trip, don’t. As soon as your hair comes into contact with water, your silk press is gone so if you’re intending to head to the beach, do it with a protective style, not your silk press.

And there you have it! Now that you know the benefits of a silk press and some considerations to keep in mind, are you still keen?

Would you like us to give you a step-by-step guide on how to do a silk press at home? Let us know in the comments below!

To silky, smooth hair days.

Love MPL 🧡.