How to Perform a Silk Wrap

If you have natural or relaxed hair, indulging in a silk wrap can render your hair soft, sleek, and straight. Although the notion of encasing your hair in plastic wrap might seem unconventional, a touch of moisture and heat can yield remarkable results. If you've been longing for smoother and softer straightened hair, a silk wrap might be the perfect solution. In a short while, you'll acquire the expertise needed to try out this enduring technique for yourself.

Straighten your hair as desired before initiating the silk wrap process. It's essential to have straightened hair beforehand. Whether you opt for a flat iron, rollers, or a salon blow-out, stick to your preferred method without altering it for the silk wrap.

Work a small amount of lightweight moisturizer into your hair. Distribute the moisturizer evenly, focusing on the ends and avoiding the roots. Use your palms to work the moisturizer through your curls, making the wrapping process easier. Ensure your hair is dry before applying the moisturizer. Emulsify the moisturizer by rubbing your palms together for a smoother application.

Flip your head downward to position your hair. Bend forward and brush your hair downward. Use a comb to create a straight part down the middle of your hair, making it easier to flip it over. Your hair should drape over your forehead as you brush it out.

Wrap your hair around your head using a brush, securing with clips as you go. Wrap the left side clockwise and the right side counter-clockwise. Ensure your hair wraps completely around your head, securing the ends with clips. Utilize flat hair clips or bobby pins to prevent creasing.

Fold the end of a piece of plastic wrap into a triangle. Begin the silk wrap by folding the plastic wrap's end at each corner to create a triangular shape. This provides a precise starting point, avoiding a thin single layer. Remember to cut the plastic wrap from the roll only at the end, as subsequent layers will rest on top of the first.

Wrap the plastic around your head once. Press the triangular plastic wrap against the back of your head and bring it around, covering your forehead. Ensure it's snug but not overly tight. The apex of the triangle should align with the midpoint of your head where it meets your neck. The initial wrap can partially cover your forehead. Before starting the second wrap, twist the plastic.

Continue wrapping your hair, twisting before each loop. Wrap the plastic around your head, covering new areas with each loop until your entire hair is covered. Verify that no hair remains exposed outside the wrap, especially at the top of your head. To ensure complete coverage, gradually work your way up with each wrap.

Tear or trim the wrap from the roll. Once your head is fully wrapped, tear off the wrap from the roll or use scissors to cut it where the wrapped sheet meets the roll. Leave enough wrap to press it back onto itself, akin to covering a dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

Sit under a hooded heater set to medium heat for 10 to 20 minutes. Adjust the heater between medium and high and allow it to dry your wrapped hair. Avoid proximity to prevent burning the plastic, hair, or scalp. Do not exceed 400°F (204°C) to prevent hair damage. If a hooded heater is unavailable, use a blow dryer on its highest setting, moving it around to evenly dry the wrap for approximately 15 minutes.

Unwrap the plastic and remove the clips. Grasp the top of the plastic wrap and unwind it from your hair, ensuring no hair is caught. Remove all clips used in the wrap and set them aside. If metal, allow the clips to cool before handling.

Brush your hair. Employ a thick-bristled hairbrush to undo the wrap and restore your hair to a simple straightened style. Brush each section of your hair multiple times until it resembles its pre-wrap appearance. The silk wrap will have made your hair softer and easier to brush without snagging.

Repeat the wrap every 2 weeks. A silk wrap can maintain silky, smooth, and straight hair for up to 2 weeks. After this period, re-wrap and dry your hair to preserve the effects. If your hair doesn't respond well, consider seeking salon assistance or extending the time between wraps. Remember, your hair will revert to its natural state when wet, so wrap it before exercising, showering, or sleeping.

- Hair moisturizer - Hair clips - Roll of plastic cling wrap - Hooded heater - Curlers (optional) - Flat iron straightener (optional) - Blow dryer (optional)