What it is: Banding is the process of using elastic bands to gently stretch out natural hair when it's wet, explains Hollis from the blog Hollistics. To prevent damage, opt for ouchless elastics without the metal hardware to prevent snagging pieces of your hair.

How it works: While your hair is still wet, divide it into several sections. The more sections you create, the more stretched out and longer your hair can appear. Secure each section with an elastic, then wrap multiple elastics down the length of each section as you go. As the hair dries with these bands, it'll appear longer and less curly once they are taken out.

What it is: Another heatless option for stretching naturally kinky-curly hair, African threading involves wrapping a piece of thread around the base of a section of hair from your roots down through to the ends. Then after it's left for several hours or overnight, the thread is removed, creating a longer, more blown-out appearance.

How it works: Depending on the number of sections you create (and how fast you can move your fingers, this method could take anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes to do. YouTube blogger BackSyncFan explains her method:

1. Separate one section of your hair to begin. Brush the section out using a detangler or other hair moisturizer.
2. Secure the section at the root using an elastic. Then, using weaving thread, begin wrapping the thread around the base of the elastic and down the length of your hair. Be sure to wrap neatly and closely to ensure minimal waviness.
3. Once you reach the ends, tie a knot at the end of the thread, cutting off any loose ends. Then repeat with the rest of your hair.
4. Allow your hair to stay in this style for at least an hour or overnight for best results. Then, snip the ends of the thread to unravel and voila! A heat-free blow out!

What it is: If you can stand to take some heat, this method is for you. As you dry your hair (whether it's damp or has been left to air dry), the heat from the blow dryer helps keep the cuticle in an elongated state.

How it works: Using a blow dryer, dry sections of your hair while tugging on the hair shaft as you go to lengthen it. To avoid heat damage, use a warm setting and be sure not to apply direct heat within a few inches of your hair. For best results, use a heat protectant spray like Tresemme Keratin Smooth Heat Protection Shine Spray before blow drying.

What it is: The use of braids or a twist out makes for a heat-free way to combat shrinkage without the tools or hair accessories. Smaller braids or twists can help not only elongate your hair, but create a more defined curl pattern. Plus, it helps keep your hair from tangling up while drying.

How it works: While your hair is damp, separate a section of your hair to begin. The larger the sections, the less stretching (and longer drying time) you will get. Then braid or twist the section from the roots down through to the ends of your hair. Keep the braids or twists taut as you go. Allow it to dry thoroughly, then let it loose and rake your fingers through your hair to relax it.

What it is: If you don't want to braid, twist, use heat or multiple hair ties, the Bantu method is your go-to for stretching your curls. The longer your hair, the fewer sections you'll need. But if you want a smooth, curlier knot out, you'll need to create several sections.

How it works: After moisturizing your hair thoroughly (we love Miss Jessie's Conditioning Creme), divide your hair into sections to detangle. Once you do that, separate a section of hair and twist it tightly down through to the ends. Roll it around the base of the section and tuck it to secure, using a pin to hold as necessary.