Heat styling tools are an important part of our daily beauty routines, helping us achieve stunning hairstyles. However, excessive heat can wreak havoc on your locks, leading to heat-damaged hair. To keep your hair healthy and prevent or repair heat damage, you’ll need to know the right way to treat it. Wondering how to fix heat damaged hair? You’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore 5 tips on how to protect hair from heat.
1. Try Using a Heat Protectant
An effective way to protect your hair is by using a heat protectant spray or cream before you heat style. These hair protection products create a shield between your hair and the hot styling tools, minimizing the negative effects of high temperatures. When choosing a heat protectant, consider your hair type. If you have fine hair, opt for a lightweight, heat protectant specifically designed for your hair type. The best hair heat protectant for fine hair is arguably Kerastase Blow Dry Hair Lotion. It’s great both for protection and styling, and leaves your hair soft and shiny. We also recommend trying the TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray, a popular pick for heat damage, hair repair, and restoring volume.
To apply a heat protectant, ensure that your hair is clean and dry first. Distribute the product throughout your hair, focusing on the ends and mid-lengths. Allow it to dry for a few seconds before using your heat styling tools.
2. Heat Style Carefully
Excessive heat is a common culprit for heat-damaged hair. To prevent this, it’s essential to use your styling tools at the right temperature. While the exact settings may vary depending on your hair type and the tool you’re using, a good rule of thumb is to start at the lowest temperature. Gradually increase the temperature if necessary. For fine hair, a low setting is usually enough to achieve your desired hairstyle without causing heat damage.
The tools you use matter, too. Invest in quality heat styling tools that offer adjustable temperature settings. Ceramic and tourmaline-coated tools are also good choices, as they distribute heat evenly and reduce the likelihood of hot spots that can lead to damage. Additionally, be mindful of not holding the tool in one place for too long, as this can cause localized heat damage. Continuous movement while styling helps prevent overexposure to high temperatures.
3. Don’t Overuse Your Tools
Overusing heat styling tools can be pretty bad for your hair. Split ends and stiff, hard-to-manage hair are hallmarks of tool overuse. No matter what heat protectant for damaged hair you use, it’s useless if you still overdo heat styling every time. To keep your hair healthy, it’s crucial to limit your frequency of heat styling. Embrace heat-free styling options like braids, twists, or air drying whenever possible to reduce the need for hot tools. This will give your hair a much-needed break from the hot iron!
When you do need to use hot tools, try to create styles that can last for a few days, reducing the need for daily restyling. This approach will help minimize the impact of heat styling on your hair over time.
4. Adopt a Regular Hair Care Routine
A good hair care routine is crucial for protecting hair from heat. Start with a gentle shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair type. Avoid over washing, as this can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it more vulnerable to heat damage. Opt for sulfate-free products to maintain hair health.
Incorporate deep conditioning treatments and hair masks into your routine to restore moisture and repair heat-damaged hair. Products containing ingredients like keratin, argan oil, or coconut oil work wonders for damaged hair repair. Use these treatments once or twice a week to keep your hair in optimal condition.
Regular trimming is also essential to prevent and remove split ends, which can worsen the effects of heat damage. Get a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the integrity of your hair.
5. Shield Your Hair in Non-Styling Situations
Hair protection from heat isn’t limited to how you use styling tools. Everyday situations can also expose your hair to high temperatures. For instance, the sun’s UV rays can be damaging to your hair, leading to heat damage over time. Protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using UV-protectant hair products. Hairdo protectors or serums with UV filters can also help protect your hair.
Hot showers are another culprit of heat damaged hair. They may feel good, but they also can strip your hair of natural oils and contribute to heat damage. Opt for lukewarm or cool water when washing your hair to prevent excessive heat exposure.
At the end of the day, using a combination of these tips will help keep your hair healthy. You can still use heat styling— just remember to do so in moderation. Looking for more ways on how to keep hair healthy? Check out our blog or shop Ninth Avenue for hot tools, heat protectant, and everything you need for nourished hair.
