Heat vs. Chemical Straigheners

Straight hair is almost universally coveted by women (and men!) of every age, race and natural hair type imaginable. There’s just something about having hair that is sleek, smooth and swingy that appeals to people, even if they are ordinarily fans of their hair’s natural texture. There are basically two ways to straighten hair: With heat or with chemicals. Both have their advantages and drawbacks.

Personally, I prefer to use heat. My Chi straightener is a total lifesaver when I’m tired of looking like a frizzy mess! I just wash and dry my hair, divide it into sections and run my Chi through. Afterwards, I seal the cuticles with some shine serum. Voila! I know that some of my friends get tired of having to use a straightener day in and day out though, which is why there is the option of having your hair chemically straightened.

Chemical straighteners let you enjoy straight hair for weeks or even months on end, but they definitely have consequences. Your hair can end up dry, frizzy and damaged, and it can require a lot of work (such as deep conditioning treatments) to get it back to optimal shape. Some people have allergic reactions to the chemicals, which can lead to itchiness, rashes and more. If the chemicals are not properly applied or left on for too long, your hair can even fall out! That’s why I prefer to stick with my CHI straightener. It hasn’t led me astray yet!