Healthy hair can be difficult to achieve if you do not understand how to properly nurture and care for it—and heat damaged hair is brittle, frizzy and sad.
One simple step to fortify your hair and prevent damage is by using a protective serum when applying heat to the hair. Combined with a good haircare routine, you can maintain healthy hair even while applying heat directly to the hair.
Effects of Heat Styling
We all know that our hair looks its best after it has been styled. But what about after, when it is in its most natural state? You might notice your hair becoming dry, frizzy, and unmanageable. Heat damaged hair can show split ends and hair breakage.
What causes this? The heat from our blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons is extremely high and is essentially frying the absorbed water from your hair. This allows for easier styling, but is detrimental to your hair in the long run.
Prevent Excessive Damage to the Hair
Heat protectant is a must-have for anyone that regularly applies heat to their hair. It is available in several forms: namely sprays, creams, and serums. Creams and serums are heavier and good options for thick, coarse hair. The sprays are lighter and a better choice for someone with fine or thin hair.
Always apply the protectant before you begin styling. Apply just enough to coat all of your hair, but do not overdo it. This acts as a barrier between your hair and the direct heat application. Be aware of the heat settings on your device and avoid the highest ones. Also avoid leaving the iron on your hair for too long in order to minimize damage.
Understand Your Hair Type
If your hair is already very fine and naturally frizzy, a heat protectant alone won’t solve that. But it will protect your hair, soften it, and increase the elasticity to prevent excess breakage.
If your hair is coarse and thick, you likely need to spend more time styling. This means your hair is undergoing extra damage and strain. Therefore it is more important to take good care of your hair to undo the stress caused by heat products.
Nurture Your Hair
Use a gentle shampoo that is not damaging to the hair follicle. Choose based on your hair type. Condition your hair every day, and use a deep conditioner or hair mask once or twice a week.
Liberally applying coconut oil to the hair, gently wrapping with a plastic bag, and leaving on overnight will add moisture and restore health to the hair. You may want to avoid doing this too often as it may weigh down the hair.
Healthy hair will be smooth, soft, easy to control and style. This is the base step in protecting your hair against heat styling and the frizz and breakage that often follows. You can determine the health status of your hair by examining it after a wash when it is clean and in its natural state. Blow drying and straightening the hair only masks its true appearance and health.
