Heat Protectants: Why It's a Must and How to Use
(Photo : Vecteezy / Boban Efteski)

Your hair is subject to heat daily if you're styling with blow dryers, straighteners, and curlers. Although these tools do keep your hair on fleek, they also put your tresses under too much heat stress. Using heat protectants will lessen the risk of damaging your hair.

Subjecting your hair to heat causes stress and eventually damage. Using heat protectants minimizes this risk by coating the hair with a formulation of silicone, wheat proteins, and keratin. It is a leave-in product that seals in moisture and smoothes out your hair cuticles.

Why you should use heat protectants

Whether you have curly or straight hair and thick or thin strands, using protectants on your hair is a must because of the protection they provide. They keep your hair healthy even with daily styling. 

Heat protectants can tolerate temperatures of up to 450 degrees. Without this protection, your hair will dry up, become brittle, and break off. This product moisturizes your hair and seals in moisture as well. This way, your hair won't end up frizzy, have split ends, and look dull.

Yes, it's an additional step in your hair care routine, but a few seconds of spraying to avoid long-term damage sounds like a good deal.

How to use heat protectants

1. Choose

You can choose between sprays, serums, or creams. But before you do, assess what your hair needs. If you have oily or thin hair strands, use sprays as they won't weigh down the hair. Creams can be used on thick hair for better absorption, and serums can be used on dry and frizzy hair. You can also test out one type at a time to see which suits you best.

2. Apply and style

Protectants can be used on dry or damp hair. Use a towel to absorb excess water if your hair is still wet. Use a comb to distribute the product evenly, avoiding the scalp. Following this, you can use your blower, straightener, or curler.

3. Leave in for the day

There's no need to wash it off after applying, and you can leave it in for the day. This will also let your hair soak up the moisturizing components in the protectant.

4. Wash off

Washing off the protectant by the end of the day will prevent buildup. Experts recommend treatments every couple of weeks to completely wash off the product without stripping the hair of its natural oils and moisture.

Assist

Heat protectants alone won't improve your hair quality. Use other products such as hydrating shampoos and conditioners, hair masks, and serums to provide other hair needs.