Texturizing hair can refer to three different meanings. The first definition of texturizing is adding a mild relaxer to kinky hair in order to loosen curls and make the hair more manageable. It can also refer to a hair cutting technique used to thin or add layers to the hair. The last meaning is to add texture to the hair with the use of styling products and tools. For each definition of texturizing hair, there are several tips that can be used to achieve great results.
Most chemical texturizers work by using sodium hydroxide. A hair texturizer will not completely straighten the hair, but it will relax a person’s curls. Just like a chemical relaxer, texturizers can be damaging. After the process, it is important to condition and avoid over styling to maintain the health of the hair.
To protect the hair, it is also essential to use a neutralizer after applying a chemical texturizer. If sodium hydroxide is left on hair for too long, it will burn the hair and/or scalp. For people with sensitive scalps, petroleum jelly can be used to protect the skin from becoming irritated. To ensure a quality application, hair texturizers should be applied by a professional or done while paying close attention to the product’s instructions.
Textured hair can also be created with a pair of texturizing shears. Instead of having two straight blades, these shears have one or two blades that contain small teeth. These teeth keep certain parts of the hair from being cut each time the blades close. This allows users to thin bulky sections of hair, blend layers, or simply add texture.
For the best results, texturizing shears are typically used one-third of the way from the scalp and one-third of the way from the ends of the hair. On shorter strands, users will want to refrain from using texturizing shears closer than three inches from the scalp. Texturizing hair too close to the scalp may cause fly-aways that will look more like breakage than texture. The exception to this would be if a person was texturizing hair less than three inches in length.
Between each cut of the shears, users will want to remove loose hair by running a comb through the area. This will help them see exactly how much bulk they have removed to avoid excessively thinning the hair. It is also important to avoid thinning or texturizing hair too frequently. In most cases, texturizing the hair every third haircut will keep it from becoming too thin.
The last way to texturize hair is to use styling tools, texturizer spray, and other products to create texture. Tools like curling irons, curling wands and wavers can be used to add texture to straight hair. To create lasting texture, spray a thin film of hairspray or texturizing spray before styling with heat. Add another layer of hairspray or finishing spray after creating the style. People whose hair tends to straighten after styling can use this trick to hold their style longer.
A texturizing kit, containing spray, gel or hair wax, can also be used to add texture to the hair. These products are typically used to add texture without requiring the use of hot styling tools. To style hair quickly, apply the product and flip the hair upside down. Scrunch and tousle the hair using the fingers to add natural-looking texture. To keep the hair from getting frizzy, avoid brushing or combing it after styling.
In most cases, it is easier to create waves in hair that is slightly damp. While hair is damp, a person can scrunch it, braid it, or fasten in several tight buns. As the hair dries, it will naturally take on a wavy or curly texture. Hairspray or finishing spray can then be used to create a style that will last throughout the day.