I've got curly hair, but like to wear a straight ponytail. I've got MPB and can't afford to lose any more hair. Up to a few weeks ago I was using a blow dryer to get my hair straight. I know it does damage, but I really don't like my hair curly. The dryer damage probably has something to do with limiting my "terminal length" to about a 14" ponytail.
This is what I do now. After shampooing and conditioning, I work in a little bit of gel. Not more than about 1/2 teaspoon. I then put my hair into a ponytail with a thin fabric covered elastic. While the tail is still very wet, I brush it smooth and pull it forward around the side of my head, and plaster it across the top of my forehead.
I use one or two bobby pins to hold it near the back and above the ear. I use cellophane tape or "Hair Setting Tape" to hold it flat against my forehead. Usually 2 strips across the tail, one right near the end.
I sleep with my hair this way. It is very comfortable. No wet hair down my back or against my cheeks. Not at all like sleeping with rollers. (I've done it, but that's another story)
In the morning, my hair is dry and straight! I just brush it out and put into a tail. It's so nice and smooth that sometimes I just leave it down for a while before putting it back into a tail.
I haven't blown my hair dry in about 3 weeks. I may actually get longer hair out of this. Anyway, I'm saving energy;)
Has anyone else tried anything like this?