Are you cutting corners in the morning because you are running late and don’t have the time to air-dry your hair? You reach for the hairdryer, put it on maximum heat, forget the heat protectant and off you go. It’s only once, right? What harm can it do? However, taking such a shortcut can spell disaster for your hair. It may not start falling out now, but the damage is real and may be irreversible. Hair breakage, brittle ends or even damage to your scalp and follicles can result from regular use of heat tools. The few seconds it takes to carefully apply a heat protectant may make all the difference to your hair’s health.
What Is Heat Protectant?
Before you go searching the beauty shelves, it helps to know a little about this fantastic product. Its main purpose is to shield your hair from the damaging effects of heat. Sources of heat include your hairdryer, curling tongs and other heat styling tools. Heat protectant comes in many forms, including serum, spray, oil or even cream. Additionally, you can use the same product to tame frizz and moisturise your hair. You apply or spray the protectant onto your hair, ensuring maximum coverage before applying heat.
What’s The Risk Of Not Using Heat Protectant?
If you style your hair without first applying a heat protectant product, your hair strands will start drying out almost immediately. Dry hair is susceptible to static (frizz), split ends and breakage. When your hair becomes bone dry, it loses its shine and looks dull and unattractive. Although heat styling isn’t always avoidable, taking the time to limit the damage to your hair is worthwhile.
Does Using Heat Protectant Mean I Can Use Heat Tools Every Day?
If only it were that simple. Unfortunately, heat protectant has its limitations. While it reduces the amount of heat transferring directly to your hair, it doesn’t block it entirely. On top of that, the heat protectant may cause buildup in your hair if used too often. If you’re styling your hair using hold products and the like, you will need to use a clarifying shampoo or a DIY alternative at least once a week. Clarifying your hair will get rid of any excess buildup from heat protectant and other hair products.
Although some heat protectants work up to 450 degrees celsius, you should never apply that much heat to your hair. Use your hair styling tools at the lowest settings whenever possible. Always read the heat protectant label and follow the instructions of the product you are using.
How Else Can You Prevent Heat Damage?
Using heat protectant is but one line of defence. There are other ways of protecting your hair from heat damage. Here are a few alternatives to heat protectant sprays and serums.
#1. Pre-dry Before The Blow-Dry!
Let your hair air dry and use a microfibre towel to soak up excess water before you use the hairdryer. That way, you’ll spend less time blowing hot air over your hair.
It follows that you should also cut down on how often you use a hairdryer each week, as this will minimise exposure to heat. Every day you don’t use a heating tool on your hair is one day that your hair gains in strength and overall health.
There are dozens of styling products on the market today that allow you to style your hair without heat. Take advantage of these products and save your hair from potential damage.
#2. Adjust The Heat Setting To The Lowest Possible
Using a super-high setting on your hairdryer isn’t necessarily going to dry your hair any faster, and if styling, it’s no guarantee of better results. Make it a habit to select the lowest setting and take your time to dry or style your hair safely.
Recovering From Heat Damage
If you have hair that’s clearly suffering from heat damage, give your heating tools a miss until your hair recovers. Treat your dry, brittle hair to a deep conditioning mask full of nourishing and hydrating ingredients. Also, consider visiting the hairdressers for a trim every six to eight weeks to get rid of the split ends.
Excessive exposure to heat styling can lead to damaged hair follicles and eventual hair loss. If you’re concerned about hair loss, perhaps it’s time to seek professional help. Vinci Hair Clinic offers a free consultation where you can get expert advice. Get in touch with us today to make an appointment!
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