Straightening a curly pixie cut can be a fun way to change your look and showcase the versatility of your hairstyle. This guide will walk you through the steps, tips, and products needed to achieve a sleek, straight pixie cut. Whether you’re looking to try something new or just want a polished finish, we’ve got you covered.
Gather Your Tools and Products
Before you begin straightening your curly pixie cut, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and products. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more efficient.
Essential Tools
Flat Iron: A high-quality flat iron is crucial. Look for one with adjustable heat settings and ceramic or tourmaline plates.
Blow Dryer: A powerful blow dryer with a nozzle attachment helps in the initial straightening process.
Round Brush: A small to medium-sized round brush works best for short hair.
Fine-Tooth Comb: Helps in sectioning and smoothing the hair.
Sectioning Clips: These keep your hair organized and manageable during the straightening process.
Essential Products
Heat Protectant Spray: Protects your hair from heat damage.
Straightening Balm or Serum: Helps in smoothing the hair and adding shine.
Hairspray or Finishing Spray: Keeps your hair in place and frizz-free.
Prepare Your Hair
Proper preparation is key to achieving a sleek, straight look. Follow these steps to prepare your hair for straightening.
Wash and Condition
Start with clean, conditioned hair. Use a shampoo and conditioner designed for smoothing and straightening. These products help to reduce frizz and make the straightening process easier.
Towel Dry and Apply Heat Protectant
Gently towel dry your hair to remove excess water. Then, apply a heat protectant spray evenly throughout your hair. This step is crucial in protecting your hair from the high heat of styling tools.
Blow Dry Your Hair
Blow drying your hair straight is the first step in the straightening process. This helps to reduce the amount of work your flat iron has to do, minimizing heat damage.
Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into small, manageable sections using sectioning clips. This makes the blow-drying process more efficient and ensures every strand is straightened.
Blow Dry Each Section
Using a round brush and blow dryer with a nozzle attachment, blow dry each section of hair. Pull the brush through your hair, following it with the blow dryer. Keep the blow dryer moving to avoid concentrating heat on one spot.
SEE ALSO: 12 Best Ways to Straighten Natural Hair
Straighten Your Hair with a Flat Iron
Now that your hair is blow-dried, it’s time to use the flat iron to achieve a sleek, straight look.
Adjust the Flat Iron Temperature
Set your flat iron to the appropriate temperature for your hair type. For fine hair, use a lower temperature. For thick or coarse hair, a higher temperature might be necessary. Start with a lower setting and increase as needed.
Section Your Hair Again
Divide your hair into small sections again. The smaller the sections, the more effective the straightening process will be.
Straighten Each Section
Take one section at a time and run the flat iron from the roots to the tips. Move the flat iron steadily to avoid heat damage. Repeat if necessary until the section is completely straight.
Finishing Touches
Once your hair is straightened, a few finishing touches can help to perfect your look.
Apply a Finishing Serum
Use a small amount of straightening balm or serum to add shine and smooth any remaining frizz. Apply it evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the ends.
Set with Hairspray
Lightly mist your hair with a finishing spray or hairspray to keep your style in place. This helps to maintain the sleek look and prevent frizz throughout the day.
Tips for Maintaining a Straight Pixie Cut
Keeping your pixie cut straight and sleek requires some maintenance. Here are some tips to help you maintain your style.
Avoid Moisture
Moisture can cause your hair to revert to its natural curl pattern. Try to avoid rain, humidity, and steam as much as possible. If you live in a humid climate, consider using an anti-humidity spray.
Touch Up with a Flat Iron
If your hair starts to curl or frizz, you can touch up your style with a flat iron. Use a low heat setting to minimize damage.
Use a Silk Pillowcase
Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can help to reduce friction and keep your hair smooth. It also helps to prevent frizz and breakage.
Products to Consider
Choosing the right products can make a significant difference in the straightening process. Here are some recommended products for straightening a curly pixie cut.
Heat Protectant Sprays
TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray
CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray
Kenra Platinum Blow-Dry Spray
Straightening Balms and Serums
John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum
Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum
Moroccanoil Smoothing Lotion
Finishing Sprays
L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray
Sebastian Shaper Hairspray
Kenra Volume Spray 25
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Straightening a curly pixie cut can be tricky, and there are some common mistakes to avoid to achieve the best results.
Using Too Much Heat
Excessive heat can damage your hair and cause it to become dry and brittle. Always start with a lower heat setting and increase only if necessary.
Skipping Heat Protectant
Never skip the heat protectant step. It is essential in protecting your hair from the high temperatures of styling tools.
Rushing the Process
Take your time when straightening your hair. Rushing can lead to uneven results and potential heat damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you find it challenging to straighten your curly pixie cut at home, consider seeking help from a professional stylist. They can provide expert advice and techniques tailored to your hair type and style.
Professional Treatments
Keratin Treatments: Help to smooth and straighten hair for several weeks.
Chemical Relaxers: Provide a more permanent straightening solution.
Conclusion
Straightening a curly pixie cut is a fun way to change your look and experiment with your hairstyle. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can achieve a sleek, straight pixie cut that looks polished and professional. Remember to use high-quality tools and products, take your time, and protect your hair from heat damage. With a little practice, you’ll be able to master the art of straightening your curly pixie cut.