Expert: Dana Sear - 7/4/2009

Question
Hi,
I have layered hair, and so I'd like to keep my hair down to show it. When my hair is wet, I comb it and it is very straight and I'd like to keep it that way but as it dries it just gets extremely puffy. I do not straighten my hair with irons and I don't blowdry because that just makes it worse and I'd rather not use products that harden my hair, like sprays or gels. I want a product that I can use, right after combing my hair while it's a little wet, that'll keep it that way so I can leave the house and look great knowing my hair won't expand throughout the day. I really want to be able to wear my hair down, and again, no straightening irons because I don't have much time in the morning. Do you know any specific products that I can apply to my hair AFTER the shower? (I don't know if the products I use during the shower make a difference with my hair). Thank you so much for helping me out! I've been looking all over the internet and by now I'm willing to try anything. I'll go out and buy it right away...thanks again!

Answer
Hiya Dana,

The only way to prevent your hair from expanding is to use some kind of product along with a dryer or iron. If your hair gets puffy when you dry it, it's because you have not used a product and a bit of tension to smooth it. In general, you will have to us a smoothing system. Matrix has one, SexyHair has one, Kenra, Redken, pretty much all the professional lines. When using professional products, however, you need a stylist to help you choose the proper products. Styling creams are probably going to be your preference because they don't  make your hair hard like gels or mousses. You can't really feel them in your hair but they smooth the cuticle making the hair smoother and shinier.

The best thing to do is go to a stylist and have them show you how to use the products and dry your hair so it is smooth and sleek. SexyHair's SexyStraight line is probably my favorite and you can't beat the Smooth and Seal in that line but pretty much, you are going to need to apply heat and tension to get your hair straight and smooth.

The only product I can think of that MAY smooth your hair, at least keep it from being puffy without heat is Paul Mitchell's Super Skinny Serum. It is an amazing product. You can put it on your hair when you get out of the shower, and then throughout the day, if heat and humidity get to your hair and make it expand, you can apply it dry. It won't make it straight but it will make it smooth and keep it from getting puffy.

Good luck,

dana