Hair can change forever in just a few minutes using heat styling tools, however, too many repeated exposures to high temperatures can incur a price. As the years pass, heat may cause weakening of the hair strands, moisture loss, and hair dryness or breakage. Fortunately, there are a couple of easy changes you can make that will dramatically cut down on the damage without sacrificing any of your favorite styling devices.
Know how heat affects hair.Know the effects of heat on hair.
The protein bonds that hold the hair together and shape it into its structure are lost at high temperatures. Over time, repeated exposure without protection can cause the strands to be brittle, split ends and a loss in natural shine.
Apply a Heat Protectant each time.
Why It Matters
A heat protectant forms a barrier between the hair and hair styling devices to keep moisture in, and to minimise direct heat damage. This step is important to perform regularly, if not every time, to reduce the likelihood of long-term dryness and breakage.
Applying It Correctly
Heat protectants are most effective when applied to wet hair before blow-drying or dry hair just before styling with heat such as straighteners or curling irons. Take care of mid-lengths and ends, as they are the most sensitive areas of the hair.
Lower the Temperature
Lots of styling equipment have different heat settings and the small adjustment that can be made to the lowest possible heat setting can make a big difference over time. The less fine or damaged the hair is, the less heat will be needed to achieve the same effect in thick or coarse hair.
Use heat tools sparingly and infrequently.
Allowing hair regular rest breaks from heat will allow for a recovery time. Wearing air-dried or heatless hair on a couple of days a week can minimize the amount of hair damage (which can add up over time), while giving you the opportunity to style on other days.
Before styling, ensure that hair is prepped well.
Dry Hair fully before straightening/ curling.
A high temperature is applied to a damp hair and in doing so can do more harm than applying same heat to completely dry hair; trapped moisture can cause a boiling within the strand.
Section hair looks great for even styling.Section hair is perfect for evenly styled hair.
The fewer passes made with the hot tool the less overall heat exposure will be per section with smaller sections.
Purchase well-made styling gadgets.Buy high quality styling tools.
Better tools will also spread the heat out and will have more control of the temperature which will help to prevent hot spots that can cause damage in the area.
Nourish Hair Between Styling Sessions
Deep Condition Regularly
Deep condition once a week to replenish moisture that is lost during heat styling to make hair more resilient.
Trim Split Ends
Trimming regularly will stop existing damaged areas from progressing further up the hair fibre, which would result in greater hair loss and splitting.
Consider Heatless Styling Alternatives
Use foam rollers, twist-outs or braid damp hair overnight or use them for variation on special days—no heat exposure needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s no need to sacrifice your favorite hairstyles to prevent heat damage to your hair, just a few adjustments. Over time, these small habits will help maintain healthy, shiny, resilient hair—from using a heat protectant to taking frequent breaks from a hot session.
