Heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons and blow dryers are all quick, convenient and easy ways to achieve sleek and shiny looking hair. But without taking the right measures to protect your hair, you could cause it some irreversible damage.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of actions you can take to better protect your hair against heat damage, so that your hair’s flawless looks don’t have to come at the expense of its health.
Always style your hair after its completely dry
Your hair already experiences enough damage from heat being applied onto its dry strands, so you definitely don’t need to add to that the extra damage that’s done when you apply extreme temperatures onto wet or damp hair. The damage done here is far worse than normal heat damage to dry hair. This is because you’re essentially applying temperatures that are far beyond the boiling temperature of your hair, straight onto the hair’s surface. As the heat hits the water on the strands, the water will expand as it tries to evaporate, and this is done so rapidly that it causes tiny little microscopic cracks on the hair cuticle. While the cracks are small, the damage does build up over time and will eventually create a noticeable difference in the texture and overall health of your hair.
Use protectants before you begin heat styling
Look for heat protectant products that are specifically designed to be used before applying heat onto your hair. Although many hair products are anti-silicon in their advertising, this is the time you actually want to look for a product that has silicon in it. This is because silicon will create a layer on top of the strands to better protect it from the direct heat. Not only that, using a heat protectant spray will also have your done-up hair last much longer by preventing moisture in the air from entering the hair shaft and creating any unwanted texture.
Watch the temperature setting on the heat styling tool
You should vary the temperature of the styling tool depending on your hair texture, thickness and behaviour. If you have thinner hair, you’ll find that lower temperatures will get the job done for you perfectly. However, if your hair is more on the thicker, more textured side, you’ll likely need higher temperatures. Again, this varies from person to person. Our advice would be to start off with the temperature being on the lower side to see if that does the trick, and if you find that it doesn’t, then increase the temperature from there.
Only use heat styling tools if you have to
Of course, the best way to prevent heat damage is to not apply any heat to your hair to begin with! This means air drying your hair instead of using a blow dryer, or using products in your hair to tame extra frizz, rather than reaching straight for the flat iron. And while you probably won’t stop using heat styling tools altogether, it’s always good to give your hair a break from the heat every now and then, and maybe even give it some extra pampering with strengthening shampoos, conditioners and hair masks.
Our stylists here at Radical Hair Designs are here to help you achieve your perfect hair. To make an appointment, call us at (02) 9651 3200 or get in contact via email at info@radicalhair.com.au
