Milk doesn't actually straighten hair in the way chemical treatments do, but it can create a temporarily straighter appearance. This effect is primarily due to the milk's fat content and proteins.
How Milk Affects Hair
- Weighting the Hair: The fat in milk adds weight to the hair strands, similar to how keratin treatments work. This added weight helps to flatten and smooth the hair cuticle, making it appear straighter, especially on slightly wavy hair. [Source: "The milk fat adds weight to the hair (the same way that keratin treatments do) and straightens it."]
- Conditioning and Smoothing: Milk contains proteins like whey and casein. These proteins can help to condition and smooth the hair, reducing frizz and making it more manageable. This smoother texture contributes to a straighter look. [Source: "It contains whey and casein proteins—the former boosts hair follicles while the latter promotes hair growth."]
- Temporary Effect: It's crucial to understand that this straightening effect is temporary. Washing the hair will remove the milk, and the hair will return to its natural texture. [Source: "Yes. This treatment is only temporary, so you will need to repeat the treatment whenever you wish to have straight hair."]
Different Types of Milk and Their Effects
While dairy milk is commonly mentioned, other types of milk, like coconut milk, can also offer similar conditioning benefits. However, coconut milk primarily moisturizes and tames frizz rather than straightening the hair. [Source: "Coconut milk doesn't really straighten the hair, it just moisturises it and helps tame the hair if it is frizzy (this can sometimes give the ..."]
Factors Affecting Results
The effectiveness of milk in making hair appear straighter depends on several factors:
- Hair Texture: Milk is more likely to produce noticeable results on slightly wavy hair than on tightly curled or kinky hair. [Source: "It really depends on how wavy your hair is. If it's super wavy, the milk might not get it straight."]
- Hair Condition: Damaged hair might benefit from the conditioning properties of milk, but it won't magically straighten the hair. [Source: "If the hair is damaged, proteins could help the repair process."]
- Application Method: Applying milk as a mask or leave-in conditioner may yield better results than simply spraying it on.
