Hair Straightening Creams and the Art of Getting Your Hair to Behave

The right hair straightening cream, some prep, and an understanding of what your hair really needs could be exactly what's been missing from your hair care regime. Before you inadvertently run out and pick-up a salon straightening treatment because you're after a nicer blow-dry than usual, here are a couple of things we need to clear up:

What does this smooth, silky feel mean?

Well, frizz gets smoothed down nicely — which helps make styling that little bit more manageable if you want to go for an extra-slick look. Some formulas also give you a nice gloss over time, while others help you hold onto your style just that tiny bit better.

This isn't a permanent transformation of your natural hair, though. This smoothness is only temporary, thanks to the way this creamy stuff coats every strand and flattens them slightly. Wash it all out (and then walk outside during those lovely summer days when it rains) or maybe even just allow yourself a break from whatever your usual washing routine entails, and it'll gradually fade away again.

If you're really desperate for permanently smooth locks, chemical straightening can achieve that. But there can be harsh chemicals involved, so I'd recommend seeing a professional first to see what options are available for you (and to be warned off anything too crazy).

Finding the right match for your hair ultimately comes down to the formula, which should complement your hair's texture and needs. Here's how to pick the best match without causing extra damage:

• Fine/Thin Hair: Go for light sprays or lotions. Cream formulas tend to flatten fine hair roots and weigh it down. Use only on mid-lengths and ends.
• Thick/Coarse/Frizzy Hair: Use rich and nourishing creams that reduce frizz and make straightening an easier task.
• Dry/Damaged Hair: Concentrate on hydration and protection of the hair. Although the products may provide temporary smoothing, the application of heat on damaged tips will only cause more damage.

Using the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair is the most important part of your routine. This alone makes everything else that comes after easier for you. Opt for a wide toothed comb or a good brush to detangle your hair starting from the ends.

• Apply a few drops of heat protectant on your mid-length and ends, but make sure not to put too much of the product near your scalp since this can make your hair look flat.
• It is advisable to start with minimum heat and gradually increase heat according to your needs. Make sure you move your iron smoothly down the sections of your hair without holding on any single place all the time.
• Wait until your hair cools down before applying a finishing serum

Not every sleek routine needs a straightener. If you're cutting back on heat, or you want smoother hair between styling days, a heatless routine is worth a look.

Which brings me to the TRESemmé Silk Press range. It's a four-step heatless hair straightening treatment that helps smooth hair, improve alignment and reduce the look of frizz with repeated use. The range is built on Amino Press Technology and includes a pre-wash treatment ampoule, smoothing shampoo, sculpting hair mask, and a finisher serum. Results can depend on your natural texture and condition.

Once you've got the finish, don't undo it. Too much serum looks oily rather than shiny. Humidity may still win, because frizz-control products help but damp air can bring your natural texture back. And hands off. Brushing, finger-combing and rearranging your parting all disturb the finish, which is rich coming from someone who can't leave her own parting alone.