For many naturals, especially those in the high shrinkage club (Type 4 hair textures), stretching our natural hair allows for easier management and styling until the next wash day. Stretching natural hair in the simplest meaning, is using techniques/methods which elongate the hair offering the chance to show off that length and reduce tangles and knots that are sometimes associated with shrinkage. In today’s post, I am sharing 4 simple and heatless (#teamnoheat) ways to stretch your hair for ultimate length. 1. African Threading (aka fake blowout) This method is best for mimicking a blow out or straightened hair if done properly. After washing and moisturising your hair, divide it into as many sections you want, the smaller the better and wrap weaving thread around the section from the roots to the ends. This methods takes up a lot of time but it’s the best for maximum stretched hair. 2. Banding method This is similar to the African threading method but instead of using thread, you will reach for your small elastic bands or hair bands and use those for each section. You mimic how you would tie a pony tail but this time you are pulling it down along the section. Depending on your hair length, you can you up to 2 or 3 bands per section. This method can look like a braid/twist out because the bands will put ‘kinks’ in your hair unlike the threading method that gives you straight hair 3. Braid/Twist/Bantu outs These are best for stretching your hair and giving you a more uniformed curl pattern. 4. Straight plates These work by pulling and flattening your hair for maximum stretching. It is similar to the threading method; it promises no dents. For this method, you brush the hair onto the stretching plates, close it and allow to air dry as normal. These are 4 simple ways of stretching your hair without heat. Let me know which methods you use and which ones you like!
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