10 Expert Tips for Caring for Straight Hair

Advice from the Stylists at Arena Creative Hair

If you’ve ticked “straight hair” on your consultation form — great! Straight hair can be effortlessly sleek, naturally glossy, and a dream to manage when looked after properly. But like any hair type, it comes with its own needs and challenges.

At Arena, we believe great hair starts with expert knowledge and personalised care. Here are our top 10 tips to help you get the best out of your straight strands — from styling and cutting to long-term hair health.

1. Choose a Precision Cut

Straight hair shows every line — both the good and the bad! That’s why it’s so important to have a sharp, precision cut. At Arena, our stylists are trained in advanced cutting techniques to ensure your hair sits smoothly, with no awkward flicks or bulky ends.

💡 Tip: Even the most subtle trims make a big difference with straight hair. Book regular cuts every 8–10 weeks to keep your style looking fresh.

2. Avoid Heavy Products

Straight hair can get weighed down easily, so opt for lightweight styling products.  l creams, and volumising sprays tend to work better than oils or thick balms.

💡 Try: Kevin Murphy’s Angel.Wash & Angel.Rinse for fine straight hair, or Hydrate.Me for thicker straight textures.

3. Add Layers for Movement

If your hair tends to lie flat, soft layering can help create movement and body without compromising on length. Your stylist can personalise this based on your face shape and overall style goals.

4. Don’t Skip Heat Protection

Because straight hair lies flatter, it’s more exposed to direct heat from stylers. Always use a thermal protectant before blow-drying or straightening to prevent long-term damage.

💡 Try: Kevin Murphy’s Heated.Defense — a weightless foam that protects without buildup.

5. Switch Up Your Parting

Changing your parting now and then prevents your hair from falling flat in the same place. It also adds instant volume and helps avoid breakage along one line.

6. Wash Strategically

Straight hair can become greasy quicker because oils travel down the hair shaft more easily. However, over washing can strip essential moisture. Strike a balance — every 2–3 days is usually best.

💡 On non-wash days, refresh with Kevin Murphy’s Fresh.Hair dry shampoo.

7. Use the Right Brush

Invest in a quality paddle brush or a vented brush for daily use. These help maintain smoothness and reduce breakage, especially when detangling wet hair.

8. Avoid Over-Straightening

It might be tempting to use straighteners on already-straight hair for extra shine — but too much heat can cause unnecessary damage. Instead, use a round brush and cool shot when blow-drying to enhance your natural sleekness.

9. Embrace Shine-Enhancing Products

Straight hair reflects light beautifully, so make the most of it! Finish with a light mist or shine spray to bring out that natural gloss.

💡 Try: Kevin Murphy’s Shimmer.Shine — a treatment and finishing spray in one.

10. Book a Professional Consultation

Sometimes it’s hard to know what your straight hair truly needs. Whether it's a change of shape, an issue with oiliness, or a desire for more body, a personalised consultation at Arena can help.

Our stylists are trained to consider your hair type, lifestyle, and skin tone to recommend the best cuts, colours, and aftercare products — with no guesswork.

💬 Final Thoughts from the Arena Team

Straight hair is sleek, timeless, and elegant — and with the right cut and care, it can be your greatest asset. Whether you're looking to add volume, reduce flatness, or bring out the shine, we’re here to guide you.

Need help choosing the right products or book a trim?
Book your next appointment online. We’ll help you make the most of your straight strands, every day.