Stretching Your Hair Naturally

Let’s talk about one of the greatest dilemmas in the natural hair community: shrinkage! We all know that 4C hair has an incredible ability to shrink up to 75% of its actual length, but that doesn’t mean you can’t show off your length without using heat. Stretching your hair naturally is a fantastic way to elongate your curls, protect your ends, and achieve those stunning styles you want—without the risk of heat damage.

In this article we will share four methods to guide you on how you can stretch your hair naturally, safely, and easily.

1. The Banding Method

This tried-and-tested technique is a favorite for good reason! The banding method involves using hair ties or small bands to section and stretch your hair.

How to Do It:

●      Start with damp or dry hair.

●      Apply a leave-in conditioner or moisturizer like MPL Black Castor Oil for hydration and sealing.

●      Divide your hair into sections (the more sections, the more defined your stretch).

●      Wrap small, snag-free hair bands around the length of each section from root to tip.

●      Leave the bands on overnight or for a few hours, and voila—stretched hair with zero heat!

This method is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy way to stretch their hair with minimal effort.

2. African Threading

Traditional African threading is one of the most effective methods for stretching hair. It's a technique that uses thread to wrap sections of hair from root to tip, creating tension that stretches the hair over time. The best part? It’s an age-old protective style too!

How to Do It:

●      Start with detangled, moisturized hair (use a product like MPL Sure2Gro Fermented Rice Water Treatment to hydrate and nourish your strands).

●      Section your hair and take a piece of thread (braiding thread or sewing thread works well).

●      Begin wrapping the thread tightly at the root of your section and continue wrapping it down the length of your hair until you reach the ends.

●      Let the threaded sections sit for several hours or overnight.

This method not only stretches your hair but protects it from breakage too. Once you remove the thread, you’ll have beautiful, elongated curls ready to be styled.

3. Twist Outs and Braid Outs

The twist-out and braid-out methods are classic techniques that not only stretch your hair but also give you gorgeous, defined curls.

How to Do It:

●      Apply a moisturizing product like the MPL Clove Hair Food to damp hair.

●      For a twist-out, divide your hair into sections and create two-strand twists. For a braid-out, braid each section from root to tip.

●      Allow your hair to dry completely (overnight works best).

●      Once dry, gently unravel the twists or braids, and you’ll have beautifully stretched hair with a lovely curl pattern.

Not only does this method stretch your hair, but it also keeps your curls defined and bouncy for several days. Plus, twist-outs and braid-outs are fantastic for adding volume to your hair!

4. Tension Method (No Heat)

The tension method is a simple and quick way to stretch your hair without heat. This method involves holding your hair taut while air-drying it or using a cool blow dryer setting to reduce shrinkage.

How to Do It:

●      Start with clean, damp hair.

●      Apply a leave-in conditioner or oil, like MPL Olive Oil for moisture.

●      Using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, gently stretch sections of your hair and hold it taut while it air-dries.

●      If you’re using a blow dryer, switch it to the cool setting and lightly pass the air over your stretched section.

This method is quick and easy, but make sure to be gentle to avoid breakage!

Shrinkage is a natural part of having 4C hair, but if you’re looking to stretch your hair without heat, these methods have got your back. Whether you’re going for volume, length, or simply a change in your look, stretching your hair naturally is a great way to show off your beautiful coils and curls while keeping them healthy and damage-free.

Love, MPL

Your Hair Doctor