So let’s get serious about the state of your ‘do. Clear eyes, thin hair means you can lose big on style points. But why the thinning hair now? At around age 35, hair starts to thin, most likely from genetics, giving birth, medication, or extreme stress, says Michelle Blaisure, a certified trichologist and Bosley Professional Strength and Technical Specialist. Sure, meditating may de-stress you enough to keep your mane from becoming sparse, but a more proven method is trying one of these new filling, thickening, and healthy scalp after-shampoo products. Check out our selection of volume-boosting heroes that guarantee you’re a winner in the hair game.
From Kamala Harris-inspired bobs to silky Lindsay Lohan-esque tresses, the season of the silk press (or straighter hairstyles) is officially here! It's been fun watching watching TikTok videos of women going to the salon to get their hair straightened, but it made me ask myself if people truly know how to maintain this style at home. It's one thing to watch a licensed hairstylist work their magic, but the upkeep may not be as straightforward for some people!
Luckily, celebrity hairstylists, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew and Natalie Lamorena, are here to answer all my burning questions. Sturdivant-Drew has over 20 years of experience working in the film and commercial industry, styling clients such as Kerry Washington, Lucy Liu, and Ashley Graham. She also worked on TV series like Suits and the Oscar-nominated film Ray. Lamorena owns Polished Pub Hair & Nail Bar— not to mention she invented the viral "Headicure" service for clients who love the idea of getting a manicure while receiving the best blowout of their lives. And with all that experience, the two of them have plenty to say about silk presses.
TL;DR
- You should rely on professionals for the majority of your silk presses, but you can maintain them at home with "the right tools and products."
- Different hair types require different temperatures and products — be sure to research and check with your hair dresser to make sure your treating your hair the right way.
- Don't get a silk press if you've recently straightened your hair.
- Heat protectant is key for any silk press or hair straightening.
- Naturally curly or textured hair should limit silk presses to once or twice a month; other hair types should keep it to no more than once a week.
- Be sure to wrap your hair correctly and use a bonnet to maintain your style.
How do you know when to straighten your hair at home or go to the salon?
Desperate times call for desperate measures when you're due for a hair appointment and can't book one. I'm sure all of us have turned into an armchair hairstylist by giving ourselves a trim, quick haircut, or dye job. You've probably even watched a few tutorials about how to give yourself a homemade silk press or blowout. I know I've recently purchased a few things to help me maintain my hair at home, but should we be straightening our hair at home?
Lamorena says, "While it’s possible to straighten hair at home, I’d recommend going to a professional for the best results. Stylists know how to work with different hair types, adjust heat settings accordingly, and use high-quality products that protect your hair." If we decide to forego a stylist's expertise, she says we can "accidentally cause damage with uneven heat or over-processing."
Sturdivant-Drew agrees that it's best to see a stylist "for the first few silk presses," but it's not impossible to safely straighten your own hair. "If you have the right tools and products, along with research, you can achieve this hairstyle at home," she says.
How should different hair types approach a silk press?
Just like everyone doesn't have the same skin complexion or undertones, hair types can differ too. This means someone with a fine hair isn't always going to have the same routine as someone with thicker strands — which is why all silk presses aren't the same. "There's definitely no one-size-fits-all approach. The technique used depends on the client’s hair type and texture," Lamorena confirms. This isn't to scare you, however!
Sturdivant-Drew says, "The process of getting a silk press is pretty standard — prepping the hair with shampoo, conditioner, and heat protectant, followed by straightening with a blow dryer and flat iron, and finishing with a lightweight oil or serum."
She and Lamorena do agree that some hair textures require a little more than others though. Lamorena says you could only need "a simple blowout and flat iron" while someone may need "more intensive treatments like keratin or a Brazilian blowout for longer-lasting results." If your hair is very curly or textured — and you're ultimately not seeing the results you want — she says chemically straightening your hair is another option. However, Sturdivant-Drew reminds me, "Stylists usually adjust heat settings based on their client's hair health and texture."
Either way, we always recommend you check with your stylist before making any permanent or lasting decisions!
What should you avoid doing before getting a silk press?
Getting a silk press doesn't always involve chemicals, but there are still things you need to avoid before your appointment. Unlike the steps you may follow at home, Lamorena wants you to "avoid loading your hair with a bunch of heavy products " because this can "make the straightening process less effective and lead to more heat being used" than you need. Also, she doesn't want you to wash your hair because "natural oils protect your hair from the heat."
It probably goes without saying, but you also shouldn't book a silk press appointment if you've already straightened your hair. "...that can make it harder for the stylist to work with and could increase the risk of damage," says Lamorena. Besides that, Sturdivant-Drew advises against "using color or relaxers should be avoided before getting a silk press" because "this could lead to a lot of breakage."
What increases a risk of heat damage with this style?
As gorgeous as silk presses are, it's possible to use "too much heat," according to Lamorena. She says, "People tend to crank up the heat on their flat irons and blow dryers, but that can seriously damage the hair cuticle, especially if your hair is fine or already fragile." Something I've learned over time is that a licensed and experienced hair stylist has better knowledge of what's really going on with our hair. They're able to have a clearer view of your scalp, roots, split ends, and more.
The other thing that contribute to damage is not protecting your hair. Lamorena implores that heat protectant products are "are crucial for minimizing damage." Even if you use the right products, you could be straightening your hair way too often. It's normal to want to have straighter hairstyles for a little while, but you should keep in mind that you don't want to overdo it.
"Not prepping or using a heat protectant on your hair will cause a lot of damage. Silk presses require a lot of heat, so it's best to use good heat protectant," adds Sturdivant-Drew. She personally prefers to use Smooth Moisture's Thermal Hair Strengthener because "their system is built for silk presses specifically." She loves that it truly upholds against heat and "adds a nice shine to the hair" once you apply it.
When would it be recommended that a client avoid getting a silk press?
Here comes the not so fun part. As much as you don't want to hear this, your hair may not be able to handle getting a silk press right now. "If your hair is already damaged, it's best to hold off on straightening. Hair that's brittle, dry, or over-processed can be further damaged by heat styling," says Lamorena. What you can do in the meantime is help strengthen your hair by giving yourself "deep conditioning treatments," according to Lamorena.
This is completely up to you and your stylish, but Lamorena suggests staying away from having your hair straightened "during really humid months...if you're prone to frizz" because "the style may not last as long."
Is there a limit to how often clients should receive a silk press?
I'm not an expert, but even I know too much of something can become a bad thing. In the case of using excess heat, I can imagine the implications of that over time. Lamorena says, "There's definitely a limit. You don't want to be straightening your hair too often," and shares her rule of thumb for textures:
- Naturally Curly or Textured Hair — Limit silk presses to once or twice a month to avoid weakening the hair or losing your curl pattern.
- Other Hair Types — Keep it to no more than once a week.
All hair types are capable of experiencing "long-term damage," but giving "your hair a break between sessions helps maintain its health," Lamorena says.
Sturdivant-Drew stresses, "Taking a break between silk presses is important in allowing your hair to recover and maintain the health of your hair. I recommend limiting your silk presses to every 6-8 weeks."
How can clients maintain this style at home during the fall?
Even though cooler temperatures means you won't have to fight against possible frizz, you still have to take care of your silk press. "Maintaining a straight style during the fall can be tricky with cooler weather, wind, and dryness in the air, but it’s doable," says Lamorena. She suggests that you use:
- Use a flat iron with adjustable heat settings to avoid unnecessary damage. Tools like the Dyson Corrale or GHD Platinum+ are solid options
- A wide-tooth comb is great for detangling without pulling or breaking the hair
"Keeping up with a regular routine and using the right tools and products can really help your style last, even through the challenges that fall weather brings," she says.
No matter what your hair type is, Sturdivant-Drew suggests "wrapping your hair correctly and using a bonnet" as they're "key to maintaining" a silk press. Similar to what Lamorena said earlier, Sturdivant-Drew believes "humidity is your worst enemy...so try to avoid humid environments as best as possible!"
Shop Other Expert Silk Press Recommendations
Amazon
Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer
"Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tools. Some favorites include Oribe Royal Blowout and Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer," she says.
Amazon
Moroccanoil Treatment
"For taming frizz, try an anti-frizz serum like Moroccanoil Treatment," suggests Lamorena. or John Frieda Frizz Ease.
Amazon
John Frieda Frizz Ease
Another option you can use to beat the frizz is John Frieda's Frizz Ease. It's another one of Lamorena's recommendations that will "help seal in moisture and keep your style sleek even in windy fall weather."
Amazon
Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime
Lamorena says, "A good leave-in conditioner is key to keeping hair smooth and hydrated; Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime works wonders."
Amazon
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day
"To extend your style without washing, use dry shampoo. This is a great option to absorb oil without having to restyle with heat," she says.
Our Silk Press Recommendations
Amazon
Giovanni Frizz Be Gone Serum
This anti-frizz serum will not only keep humidity from messing up your silk press, but it'll help improve your hair's elasticity over time and will even add an extra boost of shine to it.
Amazon
Wavytalk Professional Hair Dryer with Diffuser
If you decide to straighten your hair at home, you need a good blow dryer that'll work with your texture. Wavytalk has an inexpensive option that comes with a comb attachment, diffuser, and nozzle to help you dry your hair no matter what style you're wearing. It also has the right amount of heat settings that'll lessen the chance you cause any damage.
Amazon
CHI 44 Iron Guard Heat Protectant
Not only do I personally love this heat protectant, so does our Affiliate Writer Meredith Holser! It's been our go-to product whenever we straighten our hair because it truly does a great job of protecting our hair from heat and has a slightly fragrant smell we can't get enough of. In my experience, a little goes a long way so you'll get plenty of uses out of it.
Follow our Amazon storefront to see which hair products we'll always keep in our bathrooms.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
If your group chat is blowing up over the Bad Sisters premiere, or you're still reeling from that Outer Banks season 4 ending, never fear: these merry and bright December TV shows are here to save the day! (Don't worry though, they're not all about the holidays. Sometimes you need a break from even the best Christmas music!). Even though these programs offer wildly different things — from a gritty spy and life or death games to juicy reality dating and sitcom royalty — they're all the perfect choice for an evening in...especially if you've already watched all our Binge-Worthy November TV Shows ;).
Here are the best new December TV shows premiering in 2024.
The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On season 3 — On Netflix December 4, 2024
Netflix
These couples are at a crossroads in their relationship: will they tie the knot and spend the rest of their lives together, or will they call it quits? It's a dilemma a lot of relationships face, and you'll have to tune in to find out how these couples handle the ultimate q.
The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On is hosted by Nick Lachey and Vanessa Lachey.
Black Doves — On Netflix December 5, 2024
Netflix
This thriller stars Keira Knightley as Helen, a politician's wife who doubles as a spy — and feeds her organization all his deepest, darkest secrets. But when her secret lover is assassinated, Helen is forced to play a dangerous game of survival that involves everyone she holds close. This December TV show is also set against London at Christmas...you really can't go wrong!
Black Doves stars Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw, Sarah Lancashire, Andrew Buchan, Adeel Akhtar, Tracey Ullman, Finn Bennett, Luther Ford, Andrew Koji, Kathryn Hunter, Sam Troughton, and Ella Lily Hyland.
Southern Charm season 10 — On Bravo December 5, 2024
Michelle Watt/Bravo
The best TV shows always involve reality TV, and nobody's doing it like Southern Charm. Set in Charleston, South Carolina, these ladies are balancing their "bless your hearts" and sweet tea with plenty of drama. Although...when is dating not dramatic? Our favorite familiar faces are joined by some newcomers, bringing a whole new edge to the show we know and love.
Southern Charm Season 10 stars Venita Aspen, Leva Bonaparte, Craig Conover, Taylor Ann Green, Austen Kroll, Madison LeCroy, Rodrigo Reyes, Shep Rose, Jarrett “JT” Thomas, Salley Carson, Ryan Albert, and Molly O’Connell.
The Sticky — On Prime Video December 6, 2024
Jan Thijs/Prime Video
Despite the fact this new series revolves around a maple syrup empire, it's actually not related to Riverdale. Sorry to disappoint! This dark comedy is inspired by the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist, where a maple syrup farmer stole millions of dollars worth of syrup in order to save her livelihood. Yep, really.
The Sticky stars Margo Martindale, Chris Diamantopoulos, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Guillaume Cyr.
Queer Eye season 9 — On Netflix December 11, 2024
Netflix
We're in need of some life advice right now, TBH, and thank goodness The Fab Five are bringing it in the new season of Queer Eye. And alongside the emotional stories and heartfelt connections they make in Vegas, we'll see plenty of fabulous style. Because duh!
Queer Eye Season 9 stars includes Antoni Porowski, Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown, Tan France, and Jeremiah Brent.
No Good Deed — On Netflix December 12, 2024
Netflix
Sitcom fans rejoice! This December TV show has some of the all-time greats sharing the screen, and we can't wait to rewatch these episodes 100 times. Multiple families believe one house will solve all their problems, and are all racing to sign on the dotted line. But, naturally, the beautiful 1920s Spanish-style home isn't as beautiful as it appears.
No Good Deed stars Linda Cardellini, O-T Fagbenle, Abbi Jacobson, Lisa Kudrow, Denis Leary, Poppy Liu, Teyonah Parris, Ray Romano, and Luke Wilson.
Ready, Set, Glow — On Hallmark+ December 12, 2024
Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Hallmark Media
If your favorite scene from Jim Carrey's The Grinch is Molly Shannon and Christine Baranski's Christmas light competition, then this reality show is for you. Hallmark star Wes Brown introduces us to four families who have the best decorations around — and are sure to make your home feel even more festive.
Ready, Set, Glow is hosted by Wes Brown.
Paris & Nicole: The Encore — On Peacock December 12, 2024
Bravo
The girls are back!! Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie reunite in an attempt to produce something the world desperately needs: an operatic performance based on their iconic "Sanasa." Say no more.
"I'm so excited to be doing this with Nicole on Peacock," Paris told E! News. "Nicole has been my best friend since we're 2 years old, every memory that I have is with her."
Paris & Nicole: The Encore stars Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie.
Virgin River season 6— On Netflix December 19, 2024
Netflix
In the face of loss and hardship, nobody comes together like the town of Virgin River. And despite the struggle, this season promises to be heartwarming and lovely too — Mel and Jack are finally getting married! Their nuptials are met with some family drama but don't worry romantics. True love is sure to win out.
Virgin River season 6 stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Tim Matheson, Annette O’Toole, Colin Lawrence, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Zibby Allen, Sarah Dugdale, Marco Grazzini, Kai Bradbury, Kandyse McClure, and Mark Ghanime.
Laid — On Peacock December 19, 2024
James Dittiger/Peacock
According to the official Peacock site, this dark rom-com answers the age-old question of "Is there something wrong with me?" with “Yes. There is. The problem is definitely you.” This December TV show follows Stephanie Hsu's Ruby, who's in for a rude awakening when she realizes all of her past sexual encounters are dying. Now she has to get to the bottom of it before anyone else bites the dust.
Laid stars Stephanie Hsu, Zosia Mamet, Michael Angarano, Tommy Martinez, Andre Hyland, Olivia Holt, David Denman, Finneas O’Connell, Chloe Fineman, Ettore “Big E” Ewen, and John Early.
Kennedy Center Honors — On CBS December 22, 2024
Paul Morigi/Getty Images
The Kennedy Center Honors (a tribute ceremony that celebrates contributions to American performing art) always provide us with iconic moments — like Anna Kendrick fangirling over Beyoncé and Cynthia Erivo performing "Alfie" for Dionne Warwick. And this year promises to be no different.
The 2024 Kennedy Center Honors will honor Francis Ford Coppola, the Grateful Dead, Bonnie Raitt, Arturo Sandoval, and The Apollo.
Squid Game season 2 — On Netflix December 26, 2024
JuHan Noh/Netflix
Despite the fact we all took games very seriously in elementary school, I'm sure we can all agree no game of Red Light, Green Light comes close to the one in Squid Game. And we're in for another round of nail-biting challenges when season 2 drops December 26. As for what to expect?
"As we all saw at the end of season 1, the main plot of season 2 will be revenge," actor Lee Jung Jae told All K-Pop. "The key figure who controlled the workings of the games in season 1 was Lee Byung-Hun...it seems that the two of us will be the central figures of this next story."
Squid Game season 2 stars Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, Gong Yoo, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, and Yang Dong-geun.
Dick Clark's New Year’s Rockin’ Eve — On ABC December 31, 2024
If you ask me, there's no December TV show as iconic as New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. It's going to be the perfect way to ring out 2024 (and welcome 2025). Although I have to admit, I don't know how they're going to top Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tyla's performances from last year!
Dick Clark's New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is hosted by Ryan Seacrest.
Which December TV show are you most looking forward to? Don't forget to add these 12 Cozy New Christmas Movies On Netflix, Prime Video, Hallmark Channel, & More This Year to your watchlist!
The key to mastering your curls — and making them look like luscious locks, even in the dry fall and winter seasons — is hydration. If your curls are hydrated, then they are looking good. — and that's where leave-in conditioners can really come in and save the day. They help to hydrate the hair and lock in moisture; hence the "leave-in" part. These work their magic overnight, or throughout the day, to ensure that your curls are refreshed and silk smooth!
To understand more about this holy grail beauty product, I chatted with celebrity hairstylist and hair expert, William Whatley! He gave us all his opinions on how to properly treat your curls, plus what we should look for in our leave-in conditioners. Keep reading to see all this top-tier knowledge he dropped!
How should I take care of curly hair?
Amazon
When it comes to his number one tip for treating and taking care of curls, Whatley let us know that brushing hair while it’s wet can damage your hair – especially if you have naturally curly hair. When the hair stretches as you brush, it's actually causing more damage.
Whatley explained that your cuticle layer is more exposed if you have curly hair, and if you're brushing that vigorously, you’re disrupting the outer layer of the hair — AKA where all your gorgeous shine usually comes from. If you're constantly damaging your hair with bad brushing habits, this will ultimately make your hair less shiny!
What ingredients should I look for in a leave-in conditioner for curly hair?
Amazon
When you're looking at the leave-in conditioner bottle, Whatley says to always look at the ingredients immediately listed after water. Those will be the predominant ingredients necessary to do the job of either moisturizing, protecting, or adding strength to your damaged hair! Ingredients to look for include:
- Panthenol
- Aloe
- Weightless oils and extracts
- Refined fruit oils
- Hydrolyzed keratin.
Whatley also notes that natural extracts or oils will be great in moisturizing or hydrating your hair — which is exactly what we're looking for in a leave-in conditioner for curly hair!
Amazon
SEEN Curly Creme Leave-In
This non-comedogenic & sulfate free curl defining cream is a great leave-in conditioner to help get rid of frizz and help style your hair while helping tp nourish it at the same time. I love a good multi-use product like this — especially since it also protects against heat if you need to style it with a hot tool.
Amazon
Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair!
This mask is a ride or die favorite of mine! I honestly notice such a significant difference in my hair when I use it. And good news! It works phenomenally for any of my curly-haired gals as well! It's great for curly hair types that are dealing with significant damage or dryness. It will really keep the moisture locked in, and make it look like shiny perfection!
Amazon
Cantu Argan Oil Conditioning Repair
One ingredient that your hair won't be able to get enough of is argan oil! It's the number one thing people always recommend if you're struggling to bring your hair back to life. So, if you pair that with a leave-in conditioner that soaks and will fully absorb into the hair, then we're off to a great start in our hair repair journey. This one from Cantu is beloved on Amazon with over 13,000 reviews singing its praises!
Amazon
Curls Blueberry Bliss Mask
If you're looking to repair damage done to your hair, while fixing frizz, then we've got the mask for you! This one from Blueberry Bliss is super popular on Amazon because it also helps to promote hair growth — which we all love, am I right? At only $12, I'd say that's a pretty good deal as well!
Amazon
Divi 3-in-1 Leave In
This product is raved, with reviews noting that this leave-in conditioner takes people's notoriously frizzy hair to magically smooth and shiny after use! I love this company because their products really do show results — and quickly. I use their hair growth serum, and holy cow! My hair has never grown that quickly in my life! It's such a good company, so I would definitely recommend using it!.
Amazon
Paul Mitchell Full Circle Leave-In
I love a mask that will leave your curls super hydrated, and this one will do just that — and I mean seriously hydrated. This mask is meant to specifically target giving your hair an ultimate bounce and shine, so that your tresses comes back to life after the dry, summer heat. It's also paraben free, which we (and your hair) love to hear!
Amazon
OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls
This hair mask has quite a few great ingredients in it. They include: honey, citrus oil, coconut, and curl-styling milk — all of which will help you not only tackle frizz or unruly hair, but also give your curls that "I can't stop touching my hair" softness. Yes, please!
Amazon
Shea Moisture Jamaican Castor Oil Leave-In
A mask that's from 100% pure Jamaican castor oil? That's pretty hard to come by! And it's only $10, so you can grab it for a fantastic deal. It's great at detangling your curls for when they get a little extra unmanagable or have too much of a kink in them.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations
Amazon is back at it again with another massive deals event just in time for the holidays: their Black Friday and Cyber Monday events will run from November 21 to December 2! You’ll be able to save on products across virtually all categories, from beauty and fashion to toys and home appliances. Amazon said they’ll be dropping new deals every day throughout the events, but we’ve uncovered the best early Amazon Black Friday deals you can shop right this second.
Peek at some of our fave deals in this post:
- Carote Non Stick Pots & Pans Set54% off
- Levi's Women's 94 Baggy Jeans53% off
- KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer26% off
- Oura Ring Gen 3 Heritage Fitness Tracker22% off
- Squishmallows 5-Inch 10-Pack Plushies38% off
- Cuisinart Indoor 12-Inch Pizza Oven68% off
We’re so pumped for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and gifting season in general. Here are the best deals from Amazon to help you prep for the holidays! We’ve gathered gifts for everyone on your list.
Amazon
Carote Non Stick Pots & Pans Set
Entirely outfit (or just upgrade) their cookware setup with this convenient set of non-stick pots and pans! The 11-piece is currently down to $55 from $120.
Amazon
Levi's Women's 94 Baggy Jeans
Baggy jeans are where it's at. Your fashion-loving family member will adore these Levi's as a gift!
Amazon
Sony WH-CH520 Bluetooth Wireless Headphones
These sleek headphones (now 37% off) are perfect for music lovers on the go.
Amazon
Echo Dot with GE Smart Lightbulb
Play music, command Alexa, write lists, and control your space's mood lighting all with this Echo Dot. It's $12 off right now!
Amazon
Dream Pairs Platform Mini Boots
We love these UGG boot dupes. They make the ideal gift for the teenage girl(s) in your life!
Amazon
KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
Anyone who considers themselves a home baker will appreciate the art that is this KitchenAid stand mixer. It's normally $380, but right now, it's going for $280.
Amazon
Levi's Men's Sherpa Lined Trucker Jacket
Keep him lookin' fresh with this structured jacket that wears well with any (and all) winter layers!
Amazon
Oura Ring Gen3 Heritage Fitness Tracker
This sleek fitness- and sleep-tracking ring stylishly blends in with any lifestyle. It's 22% off right now, saving you $100!
Amazon
Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Suitcase
Luggage always seems to be one of those things that needs an upgrade. This Amazon Basics one protects its contents with a durable hard shell. Plus, it's easy to take anywhere, thanks to the spinning wheels.
Amazon
Bissell Little Green Cordless Multi-Purpose Portable Deep Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
Step up your cleaning game with this easy-to-use machine from Bissell. It can work out dirt and grime from the toughest carpets and upholstery – even your car!
Amazon
Squishmallows 5-Inch 10-Pack Plushies
Looking for cute stocking stuffers? Amazon's your one-stop shop!
Amazon
Cosori 9-in-1 Air Fryer
If you have an air fryer, you already get the hype. If you don't, this model is great for beginners!
Amazon
Hasbro Gaming Taboo Board Game
We adore having this classic game on-hand for every family gathering. The holidays are about to get lit!
Amazon
Braun IPL Long-Lasting Hair Removal Tool
This 15% off tool would be perfect for anyone who is curious about beauty tools and at-home hair removal.
Amazon
Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
Coffee is a must. Save 42% on a brand-new coffee maker with this deal!
Amazon
InfinitiPro by Conair FloMotion Pro Hair Dryer
This pro-level hair dryer is sleek, easy, and gets the job done flawlessly.
Amazon
Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven
This pizza oven was $400, but it's only $130 right now ahead of Amazon Black Friday! Pies all around!
Subscribe to our newsletter to shop even more amazing Black Friday deals!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Thanksgiving dinner is a meal we look forward to all year long. The savory stuffing, the roasted turkey, the cranberry sauce — does it get any better than that? Well if you ask us, the best part are the leftovers! And we're talking about more scrumptious meals than the usual turkey sandwich. We've scoured the internet for different ways to put that surplus of food — trimmings included — to use. These 15 recipes will have you licking your chops.
Amazing Thanksgiving leftovers the entire family will won't mind eating until the first week of December
Butternut Bakery
Pumpkin Cupcakes
Don't throw away that pumpkin purée just yet! You can use it to make delicious pumpkin cupcakes the entire family will keep coming back for. Once you add in a little pumpkin pie spice, flour, baking soda, dark brown sugar, and more goodies, you'll have 12 sweet treats to munch after Thanksgiving.
P.S. You may want to have someone else bake this recipe a second time so you can have 24 cupcakes!
Cozy Cravings
Butternut Squash and Bacon Crostini
Your family will become a huge fan of crostinis once they taste this recipe. Between the butternut squash, ricotta cheese, and bacon, everyone will be eating sweet as well as savory mini sandwiches.
Munching with Mariyah
Curried Pumpkin Red Lentil Soup
Blend your leftover pumpkin and squash with coconut milk, red curry paste, ginger, and more veggies for the heartiest lentil soup you've ever tasted. Everyone will be looking to recreate this dish for a taste of lentils once they eat it, er, sip it.
Brit + Co
Gluten-Free Frittata Recipe
Bring your Thanksgiving turkey leftovers together with some cheese, peppers, and onions for a delicious frittata. You can eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
The Butter Half
Thanksgiving Leftover Pop Tarts
These savory pop tarts are filled with cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and bits of tender turkey, then drizzled with gravy for a snack or meal that will knock your socks off. (via The Butter Half)
Foodess
Leftover Turkey Pot Pie
Put the sandwiches on hold, because this turkey pot pie is the *only* way to use those turkey leftovers to their greatest potential.
A Sweet Pea Chef
Leftover Turkey Salad With Cranberry Vinaigrette
Take your comfort food and turn it into something nutritious by topping salad with leftover turkey and a vinaigrette made with leftover cranberries.
Spices in My DNA
Thanksgiving Leftovers Everything Bagel Sandwich
This recipe stuffs your everything bagel with a poached egg, cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and turkey.
The Seasoned Mom
Aunt Bee's Leftover Turkey Casserole
It's cozy casserole season, so this recipe is the perfect way to use up that leftover turkey by adding it to a pasta bake that is rich, creamy, and jam-packed with flavor.
Lively Table
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
Nothing soothes the soul better than a steamy bowl of soup like this, filled to the brim with tender shredded turkey, nourishing veggies, and a generous dollop of Greek yogurt for extra smoothness.
The Cookie Recipe
Deep-Fried Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
If you don't know what to do with that heap of extra mashed potatoes, we've got you covered with these crispy potato, bacon, and cheese-filled bites of glory.
What Should I Make For...
Thanksgiving on a Roll
If you want ALL the carbs, this recipe sandwiches turkey and all the fixin's between a fresh roll and it. Is. Magical.
Whitney Bond
Turkey Fajita Rice Bowls
Kick things up a notch and put a healthy spin on your leftover turkey with these veggie-filled fajita rice bowls.
Yes to Yolks
Thanksgiving Leftovers Pierogi
This recipe smashes the traditional pierogi together with leftover Thanksgiving goodies for a fun and seasonal spin on a classic.
Jessica in the Kitcen
Vegetarian Meatloaf and Cranberry Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich
Vegetarians can enjoy Thanksgiving to the max too, and if anything proves it, it's this stacked meatless 'wich that swaps the usual turkey for plant-based meatloaf.
Pickled Plum
Leftover Turkey Dinner Hash
These turkey-filled hash patties will make brunch fanatics swoon with their festive flavor and golden crisp exterior.
Bless Her Heart Y'all
Turkey Teriyaki Stir-Fry
This feast doesn't just give you a healthful meal after gorging on holiday eats, but it also serves as a weeknight wonder, clocking in at just 15 minutes from start to finish!
Chef de Home
Turkey Tetrazzini With Mushrooms
Putting that leftover turkey to use never looked so good with this creamy mushroom and pasta-filled tetrazzini.
Half Baked Harvest
Thanksgiving Leftovers Croque Madame
This Thanksgiving leftovers croque Madame sandwich is an excellent way to serve breakfast on Black Friday. After all, you'll need an extra boost from the fried eggs to get you through your mad dash at the mall!
Vikalinka
Butternut Squash Casserole
Not sure what to do with all the leftover butternut squash? Make a cheesy au gratin casserole!
Crowded Kitchen
Vegan Cornbread Stuffing
Don't throw away your cornbread after Thanksgiving! You can use what's leftover to bake vegan cornbread stuffing to give it a toasted yet flavorful taste.
Crowded Kitchen
Pumpkin Salad
This tasty and crunchy pumpkin salad is a great option to make if you're confused about what to do with your leftover pumpkins.
Averie Cooks
Caramel Apple Gingerbread Cookie Cups
Let's say you bought one too many apples for the apple pie you baked. Instead of lamenting over your 'mishap,' use what's leftover after Thanksgiving to make caramel apple gingerbread cookie cups!
Completely Delicious
Thanksgiving Leftovers Pizza
This delicious leftover pizza is a thoughtful option for anyone who swears they're tired of eating leftover Thanksgiving turkey after a couple of days.
Pink Owl Kitchen
Creamy Sweet Potato Soup
Chances are it'll be cold the week of Thanksgiving so use your leftover sweet potatoes to create this creamy soup. It's good for the soul!
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This post has been updated.