Heat protectant, wigs & aftercare for a flat-ironed silk press

Before: heat protectant every time

Apply a heat protectant to clean, fully dry hair before every session, and comb it through so each section is covered.

Wigs, bundles and leave-out

Only press 100% human hair — synthetic fibers can melt. Start around 320°F, test a hidden section first, and stay below 340°F. Wig hair can't recover from heat damage the way your own hair grows out.

Leave-out and blending

If you wear a sew-in or wig with leave-out, press your own hair and the extension hair separately: they rarely need the same temperature. Your leave-out sits at the hairline and gets heat most often, so keep it at the low end of your range and use the 0.3" Mini to blend instead of a wide plate.

Signs you're using too much heat

• Smoke, a burning smell or a sizzle — stop: the hair is damp or the setting is too high.
• Ends that feel straw-like or snap when you comb them.
• Curls that no longer return after wash day (heat damage). Lower the temperature and space out silk presses.

After: making it last

• Wrap or pin hair at night and sleep on silk or satin.
• Keep moisture away — humidity and sweat bring curls back.
• Touch up with the 0.3" at the roots instead of re-pressing the whole head.

Caring for the iron

Unplug it and let it cool fully, then wipe the plates with a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove product build-up. Store it cool and dry. Having trouble with it? See troubleshooting.