Troubleshooting a Puffy Silk Press
If your silk press has gone from straight and sleek to puffy and unruly, there are a few things you can do to help restore it.
Isolate the Cause
- Did you recently move to a new climate that has higher humidity?
- Do you only notice the puffiness if you skip re-activating your silk press with a heat protectant?
- Could you be using too much product on your hair?
Isolating the cause will help you determine the best course of action moving forward.
If You Suspect it May Be Too Much Product:
- Clarify your hair. Use a clarifying shampoo that will remove any build-up from styling products, which can weigh your hair down.
- Deep condition. Use a mask or an intensive conditioner to rehydrate your hair.
- Shampoo twice. Make sure to get your hair completely clean so that your product won’t continue to build up.
- Start Fresh. Re-apply your products using a heat protectant and quality leave-in conditioner.
If You Suspect it May be Climate:
- Minimize Heat. Use a hair dryer on the lowest heat setting and air dry whenever possible.
- Switch Products. Look for a lighter weight product or one that specifically helps fight humidity and frizz.
- Refresh Your Style. Style your hair with a light hold product to help lock out humidity and frizz.
Maintaining a silky, smooth silk press is all about finding the right routine for your climate and hair type. If your silk press is looking puffy, use the tips above to help you troubleshoot and get it back to sleek and shiny.
5. Are you using a diffuser to evenly distribute heat when styling your hair?
No, I am not using a diffuser to evenly distribute heat when styling my hair. I prefer to use a boar bristle brush and a gentle blow-drying technique to achieve the desired look.
3. How long have you been pressing your hair using this technique?
I started pressing my hair using this technique about six months ago.
2. Are you using the correct heat setting to complete the silk press?
Yes. Generally it’s recommended to use a low heat setting that ranges from 170-210 degrees Fahrenheit when performing a silk press. This temperature range keeps the cuticle of the hair from being damaged and keeps the hair straight and silky for a long time.
1. What kind of conditioner did you use for the silk press?
I used Paul Mitchell The Conditioner for a silk press.
4. Are you using the proper products and tools to complete the silk press?
Yes, it is important to use the proper products and tools to complete the silk press. Using the wrong products or tools could damage hair or not provide the desired look. It is best to consult with a professional to make sure the products and tools being used are appropriate to achieve a silk press look.
What can I do to get my silk press to last longer?
1. Start by investing in a good quality silk press that is specifically designed for your hair type.
2. For healthy locks and a smoother press, use a deep conditioning treatment before you silk press.
3. Don’t skip the heat protectant. Before you start using your styling tools, make sure your hair is prepped with a good heat protectant.
4. Look for specific silk press products. These products are formulated to give you a better finish and hold.
5. Try to silk press in sections. This breaks down the process and helps with accuracy and heat control.
6. Set the temperature: Not all heat is created equal. Make sure the temperature on your heat tools isn’t too hot. Otherwise, you could damage your strands and cause breakage.
7. Last but not least, use a hair oil or serum to seal in the style. A lightweight oil will give your silk press extra staying power and a beautiful sheen.