Beauty
Fact-checked

At BeautyAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Straightening Cream?

T. Webster
T. Webster

Hair straightening cream is used by people who want to smooth and tame their curly or frizzy hair. There basically are two kinds of straitening cream; chemical and temporary. A chemical straightening product can last up to several months. Temporary straightening products last only about one day, then must be reapplied.

Hair thickness, coarseness and unruliness should be considered when deciding which kind of straightening cream to use. Hair that is simply wavy might need only a daily straightening cream to smooth it out. Tightly curled or extremely frizzy and unruly hair might need a chemical straightener to get it under control.

Straightening cream can be used to tame and straighten curly or frizzy hair.
Straightening cream can be used to tame and straighten curly or frizzy hair.

Both types of hair straighteners, also known as hair relaxers, have advantages and disadvantages. The chemical kind provides lasting results but can be damaging because of the harsh chemical ingredients used to smooth out the hair. In most cases, it is best to have a professional stylist apply chemical straightening products. Hair that is fine, color-treated or excessively dry is at high risk for damage or breakage. This can occur after one use or after the repeated use of chemical straighteners.

Relaxing the hair with chemicals is done via a procedure that might include first applying a protective, petroleum-based cream.
Relaxing the hair with chemicals is done via a procedure that might include first applying a protective, petroleum-based cream.

Relaxing the hair with chemicals is done via a procedure that might include first applying a protective, petroleum-based cream to the scalp to protect it. Next, a chemical hair relaxant is applied to loosen or straighten the hair. After a certain amount of time, a neutralizing lotion is applied to balance the hair’s PH level and reduce the risk of damage. Finally, a deep conditioning treatment usually is applied to further protect the hair.

Some straightening creams claim to smooth damaged hair.
Some straightening creams claim to smooth damaged hair.

Repeated use of straightening cream should be done with care, in order to avoid hair breakage. One way to do this is to touch only up the roots with the straightening product. The chemical straightener should not be applied over previously straightened hair. Touch-ups generally can be done at home using a store-bought straightener.

An advantage to using temporary straightening creams is, of course, the reduced chance of hair damage. These products also are readily available at stores and require no expertise to apply. The effect can also be easily eliminated or reversed by simply discontinuing use of the product. A chemical straightener might take several months to wash out or wear off.

Straightening cream should be used after hair is washed.
Straightening cream should be used after hair is washed.

A professional stylist is best qualified to assess hair and make product recommendations. If hair already is damaged, a stylist might recommend postponing chemical straightening. Hair breakage can travel all the way up to the scalp, and once hair breaks off or falls out, it can take years to grow back.

Discussion Comments

anon143687

I got really curly hair and I would love it if I can get it to at least be wavy. It doesn't have to be completely straight but just "easy to manage".

closerfan12

Has anybody used Loreal hair straightening cream? I had been using Chi straightening cream, but I want to change things up a little bit.

I had heard good things about both Loreal and Wella straightening creams, but more people seem to talk about Loreal, so I was thinking about trying it.

Do you have any idea which one I should try?

musicshaman

Fun fact -- they also have hair straightening cream for men. The only reason I know that is because my college roommate was one of those guys with hair down the middle of his back, and he used a hair straightening cream religiously.

One of those things you never really think about until you see it, I guess. His hair was really straight though.

FirstViolin

What would be the best straightening cream for an Asian woman with wavy hair? I really want to get the super-straight hair, and I've tried a bunch of straightening leave-in conditioners, but I think I'm going to have to break down and go with a straightening cream.

Do you guys know of a good at-home straightening cream that I could use without worrying about balding myself?

And what is the best hair straightening cream for people with my kind of hair? It's hard, but wavy, not curly. I would appreciate any and all advice!

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Straightening cream can be used to tame and straighten curly or frizzy hair.
      By: Ruslan Solntsev
      Straightening cream can be used to tame and straighten curly or frizzy hair.
    • Relaxing the hair with chemicals is done via a procedure that might include first applying a protective, petroleum-based cream.
      By: and.one
      Relaxing the hair with chemicals is done via a procedure that might include first applying a protective, petroleum-based cream.
    • Some straightening creams claim to smooth damaged hair.
      By: Laurent Hamels
      Some straightening creams claim to smooth damaged hair.
    • Straightening cream should be used after hair is washed.
      By: bertys30
      Straightening cream should be used after hair is washed.
    • Repeated use of straightening cream may cause hair breakage.
      By: takasu
      Repeated use of straightening cream may cause hair breakage.
    • A neutralizing shampoo is typically used during the process of relaxing the hair.
      By: Valua Vitaly
      A neutralizing shampoo is typically used during the process of relaxing the hair.