Question about my hair?

I am trying to grow my hair long...this is the first time i have tried this...it used to curl up at the very ends in the back but i noticed tonight most of the curls are gone and it looks straighter...is this normal? Is my hair "straightening" out? Also can hot water damage your hair? What are good conditioners to use? Does it damage your hair if you leave a conditioner in your hair? What is the best way to dry your hair? (sorry for the all the questions, but i am serious about growing my hair long...as of right now it looks good and i get good comments on it but i want to know of ways to prevent damage to it and ways of maintaining the length...advise greatly appreciated)

Question about my hair?

It is normal for your hair to sort of "straighten out" as it gets longer because the weight of it holds down the curls. Hot water will not damage your hair, but you should always rinse out your conditioner in cold water as it seals your cuticle which gives it that shine and healthy look. Leaving in conditioner will not damage your hair but be sure to use a leave in conditioner and not a cheapy one like Pantene. Washing your hair too often will. Most stylists recommend washing your hair every other day and conditioning everyday. A good conditioner to use it Pureology Hydrate. It cost more than those at the grocery store but if you are planning on growing your hair out you'll need to take care of it. (you can find it on ebay for a reasonable price). Try to air dry it most of the time if possible and dont put it up in a pony tail while its wet, your hair is more fragile while wet and you can stretch it out causing breakage.

Hope I helped!

Question about my hair?

You can get it straightened after growing it out. Or go to a salon and ask what you should do.