Treatment FAQ

what is a heat treatment for hair

by Randy Gerhold DDS Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The Best Treatment for Heat-Damaged Hair

  • Thermal Protection. Heat damages the hair by removing water and moisture from the hair shaft. ...
  • Shampoo. Shampooing your tresses less often can actually prevent damage. ...
  • Silicone. Silicone seals the hair cuticle and allows the hair to resist damage better than untreated hair. ...
  • Conditioners. Use conditioners, which penetrate into the hair. ...
  • Split Ends. ...

Heat protectants act as a protective barrier between your hair and a hot tool, protecting it from burning, drying out, and becoming dull. A heat protectant will help smooth the cuticle and leave hair looking shiny and healthy,” explains Chicago-based celebrity hairstylist Alex Brown.Mar 16, 2022

Full Answer

What is the best heat protection for hair?

  • Protects hair up to 450 F
  • Curly Girl Method Approved
  • Inspired by the ocean to protect strands
  • Protects color and nourishes medium porosity curls

How often should I use heat in my hair?

The 5 Rules Of Heat Styling Your Hair

  1. Don’t style hair with heat every day. “Only use hot tools when necessary,” says Anna. ...
  2. Choose the correct size of tool. This rule has more to do with styling your hair well than keeping it healthy, but it’s still very useful: “The outcome of ...
  3. Keep the curling iron away from your bangs. ...
  4. Always use professional tools. ...

More items...

What does heat protection spray actually do for your hair?

When your hair heats up above 130 °C (266 °F), a few types of damage occur:

  • The pigments that give your hair its colour change (e.g. ...
  • The keratin proteins that give your hair its strength and elasticity break down
  • The outer surface (cuticle) of the hair cracks and frays
  • Moisture evaporates from the inside of the hair (and if your hair is wet, the steam will blast through your hair’s structure, destroying it as it leaves)

What is the best heat protectant for natural hair?

Top Natural Heat Protectant Ingredients

  1. Coconut Oil. Can someone please tell us what coconut oil can’t do? ...
  2. Grapeseed Oil. If you haven’t used grapeseed oil as a natural heat protectant, you’re truly missing out on its benefits.
  3. Argan Oil. Liquid gold, liquid gold, liquid gold! ...
  4. Shea Butter. ...
  5. Almond Oil. ...

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Is heat protection good for your hair?

“A heat protectant is necessary because it prevents the hair from getting damaged from hot tools, blow drying, and even UV radiation.” In fact, many heat protectants offer a multitude of benefits in addition to those already mentioned, from detangling to moisturizing and frizz control.

Do you really need heat protectant?

While your shampoo and conditioner can help nourish your hair, balance your scalp and restore the hair's cuticle, applying a heat protectant is key to preventing further damage or dryness. “They're designed to be the first line of defense against any heat before your natural oils and moisture,” says Buck.

Does heat protectant actually work?

Keep in mind that heat protectants only reduce the amount of damage caused by heat styling. They can't completely protect your hair – even the best results show about 50% heat protection at most.

How often should you use heat on your hair?

Don't style hair with heat every day. Hot tools can also make hair look crispy and create split ends if overused. Blow out hair 3-5 times a week and try to limit your flat iron/curling iron usage to 1-2 times a week.”

Is coconut oil a heat protectant?

Coconut Oil This oil is one of the most popular natural heat protectant options out there. There are so many ways you can use coconut oil to protect your hair against the effects of heat-styling tools. Since coconut oil can make your hair a bit on the oily side, we recommend applying just a few drops to your strands.

Can conditioner be used as heat protectant?

As anyone who regularly styles their hair with heat tools knows, it's important to use a heat protectant. But what many people don't realize is that leave in conditioner can act as a heat protectant. This is because leave in conditioners help to coat the hair, which can help to prevent damage from heat.

Do you put heat protectant on wet or dry hair?

Do You Put Heat Protectant On Wet Or Dry Hair? You can spritz a hair protectant spray onto either damp hair or dry hair. Some sprays work best for both damp and dry hair. You may want to read the label and instructions before you buy one.

What can I use instead of heat protectant?

Natural Heat Protectants to use with Flat Irons for HairChoosing an oil. It can be tempting to just pick up and use whatever oil is lying around the house, but for full heat protection from flat irons only certain natural oils will do. ... Argan Oil. ... Coconut Oil. ... Shea Butter. ... Grape seed Oil. ... Almond Oil. ... Avocado Oil.

Can I straighten my hair without heat protectant?

Experts reveal sleek solutions without the damage. Transforming wavy hair into a stick-straight style often involves the copious use of chemicals, hair dryers, and flat irons—all amped up to their highest, most follicle-damaging heat settings.

Does heat really damage hair?

Exposure to high heat changes the shape of your hair's keratin strands. Temperatures over 300°F convert the ⍺-keratin to β-keratin, which eventually leads to weaker hair that has lost its elasticity and become more prone to damage.

Does no heat help hair grow?

Your Hair Will Grow Longer & Healthier Without Heat. This is not to say that heat is required to grow healthy hair. It's just to say that it's a myth that its absences will make your hair healthier or its presences will do the opposite. It's all about moderation.

Is heat trained hair damaged?

Does Heat Training Damage Natural Hair? "Too much of it can damage the hair shaft, permanently disturb your authentic curl, and possibly make it vulnerable to damage," says McField. However, Atlanta-based hairstylist Keka Heron says everything you do leading up to heat styling is the key to healthy heat trained hair.

What are the benefits of hot oil treatment?

Other potential benefits of hot oil treatments include: increased hair strength. reduced dryness of both the scalp and hair. help with dandruff relief. reduced frizz.

What is the best oil for hair?

Hot oil treatments tend to work best for natural hair. If your hair or scalp tends to be oily, you may want to use a less fatty oil. Jojoba and almond are good choices because they tend to be absorbed quickly. This helps to prevent an oily residue on your hair and scalp.

How does hot oil work?

Made from plant-based oils, like olive, almond, and coconut, hot oil treatments work by sealing the hair cuticle. This can help to strengthen and protect your hair. There are several options for getting a hot oil treatment. You can choose to go to a salon. Or, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can try a do-it-yourself (DIY) ...

How long to microwave hair oil?

Once you’ve washed your hair, microwave 3 to 6 tablespoons of the oil in a microwave-safe bowl for 10 seconds. Before applying the oil to your damp hair and scalp, test a small amount of the oil on your wrist to make sure it’s not too hot.

How to reduce the risk of a reaction to hot oil?

To reduce the risk of a reaction, look for oils that aren’t combined with synthetic ingredients, and are 100 percent natural. If you’re unsure whether a hot oil treatment is safe for you, try doing a patch test a few days before using the product.

What to do if hot oil doesn't help?

The key is to follow all the steps in the process and to pay attention to all safety instructions. If you have a reaction to a hot oil treatment, or if it doesn’t help alleviate your dry hair or scalp, follow up with your doctor or dermatologist.

How to get rid of knots in hair?

Run a brush through your hair to get rid of any knots. Apply the oil evenly throughout your hair and massage it into your scalp. Cover your head with a shower cap and wait up to 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, completely rinse out the oil from your hair, and follow up with your normal conditioner.

What is color treated hair?

Color-treated hair gets an extra layer of protection from heat and stripping. Argan and coconut oils hydrate hair, all the while combatting frizz. This salon-fave prevents damage, tamps down frizz, and leaves hair smoother, softer, and stronger. This non-aerosol spray helps to protect hair from heat, detangles, and smoothes.

What is heat protectant?

“Heat protectants act as a protective barrier between your hair and a hot tool, protecting it from burning, drying out, and becoming dull.

What are some good ways to protect against heat?

Things such as amino acids, keratin, and wheat protein are all good options.

Is rosehip oil good for hair?

While this is a good pick for all hair types, it’s an especially great option for those constantly combatting flyaways. Rosehip oil in the formula balances moisture levels (the secret to warding off frizz), while argan and coconut oils further hydrate and smooth. Plus, the cream consistency is a nice change for those with thicker strands who may find sprays to be too light. Just use one or two quarter-size dollops, based on the length and texture of your hair.

Is water good for hair?

Water is hair color’s worst enemy, but heat is a close second. ( Not to mention that the more heat-damaged your hair is, the less it'll be able to absorb color evenly.) This spritz packs a whopping 21 benefits, including, of course, color preservation and heat protection, and works great for all hair types and textures.

Is humectant good for hair?

While they’re more often thought of as a skincare ingredient, humectants—hydrating ingredients that attract moisture—can be super beneficial in hair care, and are especially good to look for in a heat protectant, says Brown. After all, more moisturized hair equals healthier hair.

Is creamy spray good for dehydrated hair?

You can tell this is going to be a good pick for dehydrated tresses just by the very name of it. Indeed, the creamy spray is oil-based to impart plenty of moisture and condition hair, but it also acts as a great detangler, and, of course, a heat protectant.

What Is Heat Protectant?

In case you’re new to this we’ll explain: A heat protectant works to shield your strands from damage when used before applying heat. Think of it as armor for your hair. Typically you can find a heat protectant available in spray, cream, oil, or serum formulas.

Do Heat Protectant Sprays Actually Work?

Despite what some may think, heat protectant sprays do work — assuming you follow the instructions listed on the product. They’re often formulated to protect hair from temperatures as high as 450 degrees. Make sure your heat tools aren’t exceeding the temperature that your product can defend against to ensure its effectiveness.

Our Best Heat Protectants For Hair

Now that you’re all in on using heat protectant whenever you pick up your hot tools, it’s time to find your heat-safe match. Have your pick from our best heat protectants for hair below.

Other Ways To Prevent Heat Damage

Now that you have the resources to pick the best heat protectant for you, that shouldn’t be your only line of defense. Besides stocking up on heat protectant, there are other strategies you should employ to help beat heat damage. Consider these four additional tips below to play it safe.

What is heat damaged hair?

Hairstyling includes the use of many hot tools, from blow dryers to flat irons and curling irons. While these tools can help you achieve your perfect look, they can also lead to heat-damaged hair.

What causes heat damaged hair?

A survey conducted by InStyle found that frizz is the most common hair complaint (63%). The top eight complaints also included breakage or split ends (60%) and dryness (55%).

Signs of damaged hair

What does damaged hair look like? According to Prose, when a healthy strand of hair is examined a under a microscope, it appears regular and smooth as one complete piece, thanks to an intact cuticle. A damaged strand of hair under a microscope has a broken cuticle, which appears as irregular and open with small breaks throughout.

Can damaged hair be repaired?

There isn't a quick and easy “fix” for damaged hair. Once your hair becomes damaged by heat, it's irreversible, but there are ways to minimize the symptoms, such as masks, creams, oils, and conditioners. One solution is to get a haircut that removes the damaged parts of your hair.

How to prevent heat damaged hair

The best way to deal with heat-damaged hair is to prevent it. Instead of dialing up your curling iron or flat iron to the highest degree, try a temperature in the range of 200°F to 300°F. The lower end of that range is recommended for thinner, finer hair, while thicker, coarser, or curlier hair can handle the higher end closer to 300°F.

What is heat protectant spray?

A heat protectant spray minimizes hair damage caused due to the heat emitted by styling equipment like curlers, straighteners and blow-dryers. It is usually a leave-in product that is applied to your hair before you start styling it.

What are the ingredients in heat protectant spray?

Some heat protectant sprays contain silicones (like dimethicone and cyclomethicone) while others have water-based polymers (like polyquaternium and acrylate copolymer). You can look for the following ingredients while purchasing a heat-protectant spray:

Can heat protectant sprays damage hair?

Bear in mind that heat protectant sprays do not prevent hair damage from heat styling tools. They can only minimize the damage. If you notice dry, brittle, frizzy and split-end prone hair, your hair may be damaged and needs the right care.

Can you use heat protectant on damp hair?

You can use a heat protectant spray on dry or damp hair before you start styling your hair. Spray only on your hair, avoiding the scalp. You can comb your hair after application to make sure the product spreads evenly across the hair.

Can you spray hair protectant on dry hair?

You can spritz a hair protectant spray onto either damp hair or dry hair. Some sprays work best for both damp and dry hair. You may want to read the label and instructions before you buy one. There are also formulas that require you to apply and rinse off in the shower.

How to use heat protectant on hair?

For hair heat protectant sprays, simply spray the product across your hair, working section by section until there is a light coating of product across your whole head of hair. With any hair heat protectant, you want to be sure to wait until the protectant has fully dried to heat style your hair.

What is a heat protectant?

Hair heat protectants are a handy styling product designed to lock in hydration and protect your locks from the bulk of the damage caused by heat styling tools. As an added bonus, some hair heat protectants can also fight frizz, condition hair, and strengthen any weak strands.

What are the ingredients in heat protectants?

We talk more about this how heat protectants work in our full guide. Ingredients such as panthenol, propylene glycol, keratin, and various plant-based oils are the most commonly used ingredients to prevent heat damage. Each of these ingredients bind to the hair, protecting it and preventing damage.

What is a leave in conditioner?

Leave-in conditioners are handy little products that can protect your hair, tame frizz, and repair damaged strands all at once. If your hair is heat damaged, it may be a good idea to invest in a multipurpose leave-in conditioner that you can use daily.

Can heat protectant be used on human hair?

It is not too lightweight or too heavy, so it won’t weigh down or tangle up hair. It can also be used on any natural human hair extensions with causing any adverse reactions. It is a good choice if you need a versatile product you can use for anything.

Can Hsi Professional be used as a leave in conditioner?

Why we like it: HSI Professional is perfect for use on all hair types and can even double as a leave-in conditioner. Editor’s Rating: The formula of the HSI Professional Heat Protector is blended with argan oil, a highly moisturizing and conditioning plant oil.

Can heat damage hair?

If you’re someone who loves to heat style your hair, you’re probably aware of how much damage heat tools can cause your hair over time. Constant exposure to heat can lead to hair dryness, brittleness, or excessive frizz. Fortunately, using a hair heat protectant can help you reduce this type of damage to your tresses.

What ingredients can be used to prevent hair breakage?

In fact, two studies published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science ( 1998 and 2011) have shown that several ingredients (which include copolymers, hydrolyzed protein, and cationic surfactants) can minimize hair breakage when applied before thermal exposure.

What is heat protective mist?

This heat protective mist from Pantene was created for natural hair textures and a range of curl types up to 4c. It contains polymers that form a protective barrier on hair, which reduces moisture loss from the heat of styling tools, plus conditioning ingredients to smooth strands to silky, shiny perfection. The spray can be used on wet or dry hair for blowdrying or straightening.

Does Garnier cream work on hot tools?

This Garnier cream created to be used with hot tools is one of the GH Beauty Lab's top-tested products at the drugstore for heat protection. Added bonus: it's a strong frizz fighter . In the Lab's anti-frizz styling product test, the formula scored well for taming frizz throughout the day without leaving hair feeling sticky or greasy.

Can you reverse hair damage in 2021?

Mar 1, 2021. courtesy. Heat tools for hair, like straighteners, curling irons, and hair dryers are one of the biggest culprits of hair damage. Although there is no way to totally reverse the damage, you can minimize some negative effects by applying a thermal protecting leave-in styling product. In fact, two studies published in the Journal ...

Does GH blowdry mist protect hair?

A top performer in the GH Beauty Lab's volumizing styling products test, this blowdry mist not only protects hair against heat but also helps make fine hair look voluminous and full all day long without any heaviness or crunchy, tacky feeling "I like this product better than the volumizing spray I get at my salon," a tester said.

What happens when you heat your hair?

When your hair is damaged by heat, it’s permanently damaged. High or excessive heat can permanently break the S-S or disulfide bonds within hair strands that give hair its strength along with protein cross-links. Heat damage can be prevented or treated but not repaired.

How hot can hair be?

Your hair can withstand a temperature of 450F before burning or becoming damaged. Simply using heat does not automatically mean that your hair is or will become damaged. In most cases, healthy hair will only experience heat damage with excessive use of heat or using heat appliances at temperatures of 450F or more. 2.

Is heat damage to hair preventable?

Heat damage like any other type of hair damage is possible but also preventable. (See 5 Ways To Avoid Heat Damage) Hair that is weak, fine, and porous is more likely to be affected negatively by heat or anything for that matter. Know your hair and its limitations.

Is heat straightened hair natural?

There are some that believe that heat straightened hair is no longer natural hair. This is untrue. The fact that your hair is only straight until water hits it, is evidence that it’s still natural. You can physically change hair without compromising its natural texture and integrity.

Can heat damage natural hair?

Only Heat Can Damage Your Natural Hair. Anything in excess can be harmful to your natural hair. Heat is definitely not the exception to the rule. But there are some benefits to occasionally heat straightening your hair.

Does heat straighten hair?

This is not to say that heat is required to grow healthy hair. It’s just to say that it’s a myth that its absences will make your hair healthier or its presences will do the opposite. It’s all about moderation. Minimal heat straightening can be beneficial to your hair as mentioned before. But if you overdo it, it can lead to devastating effects on your hair.

Do you have to avoid heat damage?

Once you’ve experienced heat damage does not mean, you will always experience heat damage every time you use heat. If you’ve experienced heat damage in your lifetime, you don’t have to avoid all heat to completely prevent it from happening again.

Joico Ironclad Thermal Protectant

Key selling points: A fast-drying, nonsticky formula that helps reduce frizz and static.

HSI Professional Argan Oil Heat Protector

Key selling points: A fine mist formula that makes hair feel healthier and is especially good on curly textures.

Ouai Leave-In Conditioner

Key selling points: A leave-in conditioner that preps hair for styling while instantly adding smoothness and shine.

L'Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Sleek It Iron Straight Heatspray

Key selling points: Formulated for sleek, smooth results, this heat protectant pairs particularly well with flatirons.

CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray

Key selling points: This cult classic gets rave reviews for its ability to preserve color vibrancy and help prevent split ends.

Sun Bum Heat Protector Spray

Key selling points: The dual-phase formula produces soft results and speeds up drying and styling time—the main draw for most fans. The light, beachy scent is also a plus.

Paul Mitchell Hot Off the Press Thermal Protection Spray

Key selling points: The repairing formula also provides flexible hold, allowing curls and blowouts to have longer wear time.

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