Night One
The first night sets your press, and sweat and friction overnight are what undo a fresh press. Wrap your hair neatly and snugly, and keep your room cool so you wake up with smooth hair.
- Wrap your hair around your head. Comb it flat against the scalp in a clockwise direction and tuck the ends under.
- Tie it down with a silk scarf, then add a bonnet. Using both gives you double protection: the scarf holds the wrap in place, and the bonnet protects the scarf.
- Sleep with the AC on if you can. The combination of heat and moisture is what causes a fresh press to revert.
- Unwrap your hair in the morning. Brush gently from the ends to the root, and let your hair fall naturally.
Daily Care
Use as few products as possible during the week after your appointment, and keep oil and cream off your hair.
- Wrap your hair every night without exception, even when you are tired.
- Avoid heat, including flat iron touch-ups and curling wands.
- Keep moisturizers, oils, and cream-based products off the lengths.
- Use only a boar bristle or paddle brush, and avoid combs that grab the hair.
- Stay out of the gym sauna and steam room, because sweat causes the press to revert.
- On humid days, an anti-frizz silk spray with light hold can help. Hold the bottle at a distance when you spray.
What to avoid
- Rain, fog, steam, or any humid environment for 24 hours after your appointment.
- Workouts that make your scalp sweat.
- Hooded dryers, blow dryers on a hot setting, or any other heat applied at home.
- Pulling your hair into a tight ponytail or bun during the first 48 hours.
- Cotton pillowcases or fabric headbands, which pull moisture from the press.
Refresh Timeline
With proper care, a press lasts 2 to 3 weeks, and after that it is time for wash day.
Day 1 to 3
Peak
Your hair is at its smoothest during these first days, which makes this the best time to take photos and enjoy your press.
Week 2
Maintain
Wrap your hair every night and brush gently. Use an anti-humidity spray if needed.
Week 3
Wash day
It is time to come back in for your next wash and press.
The same care applies to a press and curl, a press out or roller set, a blowout, and a wash and blow dry. Wrap your hair every night, keep it away from humidity and sweat, and skip heat at home.
Questions at any time
If your press reverts within 24 hours or you notice breakage at the ends, take a photo and text me at (857) 233-1147, and we will adjust your next visit.