How to Press Black Hair
Pressing black hair has been a long time tradition. When pressing African-American hair there are steps that need to be taken to ensure the hair is not damaged. Depending upon the grade of hair it may not need pressing at all. For those who are not sure whether their hair can sustain the heat of a pressing comb they should ask a professional first.
- Select a good shampoo and conditioner. It is important to make sure the hair is clean and well conditioned before pressing. If the hair is not clean it will cause the pressing comb to become clogged and the hair may burn.
- Blow dry your hair and make sure it is completely dry. You cannot press wet hair.
- Take the pressing comb and put it on the stove or special heating rack that many professional have in their salons. These racks may be purchased at most beauty supply stores and get just as hot as putting the pressing comb on the stove.
- Prepare the hair to press. Divide it into different parts. It is always best to start at the back of the head and work your way to the front.
- Slightly oil the hair before pressing it. Be sure not to use a lot because this will cause the hair to sizzle and become extremely hot. Avoid pressing hair when it is dry or overly oiled.
- Remove the hot pressing comb from the stove. Allow it to sit on a paper towel to cool before putting it in the hair. Test the comb on a small area before pulling it through the hair.
- Put the pressing comb at the root of the small section. Turn the comb so the back side of the comb is pressed up against the root. You can also put a regular comb between the scalp and the pressing comb to keep it from touching your scalp.
- Press the comb down hard and slide it down the length of your hair. Be sure to use the back this is where most of the heat is located.
- Continue this throughout all of the hair. You may plait the pressed hair as you go along to keep it out of the way.
- After all hair has been pressed. Take the pressing comb and go around the edges of the head to make sure they are pressed well.