If the 2010s natural hair movement was a renaissance in wearing your crown out and proud, the trend defining the 2020s may be something more unexpected. The answer may be the “straight natural” or someone who regularly straightens their natural hair. With relaxers out of vogue, being a natural straight is less of a commitment, allowing for the best of both worlds: curly and straight hair.
For many, the shift comes down to convenience. Being able to wake up without worrying about intensive daily styling saves a significant amount of time. Despite a collective appreciation for all hair textures, for some, it simply comes down to personal preference. Zoë Chirico, a 25-year-old data analyst from Philadelphia, says straightening her hair is essential for her early schedule. “I wake up early to get to work. I need to get there by six A.M. and having my hair in a bun and then taking it out, and it being blown out is what I prefer,” said Chirico.
Before her blow-dry, Chirico typically uses a protein-enhanced clarifying shampoo, conditioner, and a hair mask. She describes her maintenance routine as fairly simple, other than the frequent risk of sweating out her blowouts. “The only issue with upkeep is that I like to run long distances,” said Chirico. “I just don’t like being gross all the time.”
While there are benefits to maintaining straight hair, the practice is not without risks. Heat damage remains the primary concern, as excessive temperatures can permanently alter a curl pattern and cause strands to become fragile. Added dryness can also make it easier for ends to break off. Without proper preparation and a dedicated maintenance routine, a freshly pressed style will likely not last long.
Successful care starts with ensuring the hair is in a healthy state before heat is even applied. If you are already dealing with damage and breakage, straightening will only exacerbate the problem. Healthy curls must be hydrated and retain their elasticity.
“Maintaining straight styles really comes down to a healthy scalp, strong strands, and minimizing how often heat is reapplied,” Janell Stephens, certified trichologist and owner and founder of Camille Rose, tells Essence GU. “I always suggest starting with scalp care. A healthy scalp creates the foundation for strong, healthy hair growth. Something like the Camille Rose Batana Oil & Batana Scalp Balm is great for nourishing the scalp with essential fatty acids and botanical oils that support moisture balance and circulation.”
Using a heat protectant can make a significant difference in how much heat the hair strands are directly exposed to. On clean and properly conditioned hair, Stephens recommends working with moderate heat in small sections so one pass with the flat iron is enough. The final step is consistent maintenance. Wearing a satin bonnet or sleeping on a silk pillowcase is critical for minimizing frizz and decreasing friction. It is best to stretch the style for as long as possible to reduce the need for re-pressing, which may mean avoiding high humidity or intense exercise.
“The goal should always be healthy hair. With the right preparation, nourishing treatments, and low-heat styling options like roller sets—you can enjoy versatile styling, including straight hair, without compromising the health of your curls,” said Stephens.