Think of it as “stretch,” not straighten. Because without heat, honestly, you’ll have stretched your hair, and that’s good for other purposes besides swinging it in the wind. You can have a banging ‘fro, an effortless bun and your detangling process can be forever smooth. Those are the benefits of stretched hair, and below are six methods you can use to get it done.

Method 1: Bantu Knots Can Straighten Natural Hair Without Heat

Bantu knots are sections of hair that are wrapped tightly around the fingers, then made into a little bun with the ends secured near the base, next to the roots of the hair. These give a slick, smooth stretch that has a slight curl.

Bantu knots work well as a style and also for stretching the hair. While you are waiting for the hair to stretch completely, you can still wear the look, provided you make neat parts.

How to Make Bantu Knots

Start with freshly washed hair that has been conditioned. Section the hair in a pattern on the head, with each section being at least two inches. Apply a curl-defining cream to the section. Then while holding the section of hair at the base, twirl the hair tightly, wrapping the hair around the base in a spiral.

When you reach the tips and have a little bun, secure the ends underneath the knot. When the hair is completely dry, release the knots, then repeat the process on dry hair with hair oil. This might take two or three days to complete.

The Result of Bantu Knots

Because you’re creating small buns, your hair, as a result, will have a slight wave to it. You can create a lovely updo with Bantu knots that have been taken down.

Method 2: Twists Can Keep Your Hair Stretched Overnight

Twists are the most comfortable way to keep your hair stretched overnight. Twists don’t sit close enough to the scalp to straighten the entire length of hair. You can install them at night to keep your style from shrinking up while sleeping. Twists are easy to install, and they don’t tug on the scalp.