Heat styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners can transform your locks, but overuse can seriously damage your hair. Frequent high heat causes dryness, breakage, and frizz over time. To rock gorgeous styles without sacrificing the health of your hair, arm yourself with tips to prevent heat damage!
Shield Strands with Heat Protectants
Before using hot tools, always prep your hair with a heat protectant. These products create a barrier between your hair and the heat to prevent damage.
- Sprays are lightweight and easy to apply evenly from roots to ends. Good for fine hair.
- Serums are concentrated and better for coarse, thick hair. Apply sparingly and evenly.
- Look for protectants with silicones like dimethicone that seal the cuticle or oils that nourish.
- Avoid alcohol in ingredients which can dry out hair.
Handpicked: Olaplex No 6 Bond Smoother
Adjust Heat Settings Appropriately
Excessive heat risks more damage. Keep temperatures low enough to style without frying your hair.
- 300°F or less for fine or damaged hair
- 300-400°F for medium or wavy hair
- Up to 450°F for very thick or coily hair
- Only use max heat if needed for your hair type. Avoid it otherwise.
- Check your styling tool’s manual for optimal temperature guidelines.
Handpicked: CHI Ceramic Hair Straightener
Work in Small Sections
Don’t concentrate heat on one area for too long. Working in 1-2 inch sections ensures even heating, minimizes exposure, and reduces potential breakage.
Allow Hair to Cool
Let your hair cool for at least 30 seconds between passes with hot tools. This helps hair hold a style better while avoiding compounding heat damage.
Deep Condition Regularly
Using hydrating hair masks and deep conditioners 1-2 times per week boosts moisture in damaged hair and prevents breakage.
- Focus on mid-lengths and ends which are most prone to dryness.
- Leave on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing out thoroughly.
- Look for nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and keratin.
Get Trims Every 8-10 Weeks
Regular trims remove split ends and prevent further damage from traveling up the hair shaft. Well-trimmed hair holds styles better!
Let Hair Air Dry When Possible
Allow hair to air dry naturally rather than blow drying whenever you can. Taking a break from heat gives your strands a chance to recover.
Handle Wet Hair Gently
Wet hair is super fragile. Avoid breakage by:
- Using a wide-tooth comb and brushing gently
- Not rubbing hair vigorously with towels
- Letting it air dry most of the way before styling
With these tips, you can achieve gorgeous styles while keeping your hair healthy, hydrated, and heat-damage free! Take steps to protect your strands from high heat and they’ll stay strong and shiny.
