Whether aiming for a luxurious blowout or effortlessly tousled waves, heat-styling is often the go-to method for achieving salon-worthy hair from the comfort of your own home. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the potential consequences it can bring over time.

When heat is applied to our hair, it weakens its outer layer, known as the cuticle, and as a result, the medulla – the innermost layer or core of the hair shaft – becomes susceptible to damage, which can manifest in dryness, frizz, dullness, split ends, opaque strands and/or hair breakage.

But thankfully, there are a few ways to minimise these risks without having to give up your beloved heat-styling tools completely:

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1. Avoid exposure as much as you can

Limiting heat exposure is a great way to protect your hair. Try to avoid using heat-styling tools on a daily basis. Instead, give your hair a break by embracing natural styles or exploring heatless alternatives.

While air drying may take a bit longer, it can significantly reduce the risk of severe hair damage in the long term. Even if you only do it once or twice a week, it can make a notable difference. When blow-drying, opt for a low or medium heat setting and keep the dryer moving to minimise excessive heat exposure.

2. Heat protectant is a must

It may sound obvious, but many ignore this step. Using a heat protectant creates a barrier that shields your hair shaft from direct heat, effectively preventing it from toasting your locks and helping maintain hair quality while ensuring long-lasting styling results.

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LA hairstylist Jes Jewel suggests reaching for cruelty-free and vegan serums or oils as they can typically be applied wet or dry, “providing heat protection no matter what state your hair is in. My current go-to is Amika’s Water Sign hydrating hair oil for heat protection and extra hydration. It contains hyaluronic acid, so it pulls in moisture to the hair.”

To ensure your whole hair is protected, spritz or apply over wet hair and distribute it evenly from roots to ends using a wide-tooth comb, which will also detangle strands, reducing friction and minimising breakage while combing through the hair.

Jewel says a common mistake is under or overusing products, which is why she recommends “to start with a small amount of serum or oil, one-two drops, emulsify the product by rubbing hands together, apply starting at the mids and ends of hair, leaving leftover product on your hands to be applied towards the roots.”

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3. Keep an eye on your washing routine

Opting for a high-quality shampoo can help strengthen your hair’s protective barrier, making it more resilient against heat damage. Incorporate shampoos and conditioners that provide hydration, nutrition and detangling benefits.

After your shower, you can take it a step further by applying a light detangler to enhance the strengthening and protective effects.

4. Never heat-style wet hair

This is another common mistake. Heat-styling your hair when wet can be detrimental, as damp hair is more delicate and prone to damage than dry hair. When you subject it to the heat of these tools, the moisture within the hair turns into steam and escapes, causing damage to the hair strand.

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If you’re in a rush and can’t wait for your hair to air dry completely, you can use your blow-dryer to rough dry your hair until it feels 80 per cent dry.

5. Regulate your tools’ temperature

It’s a typical error to crank up the heat to the highest setting, even if you’ve applied heat protectant beforehand. However, this can accelerate damage regardless of the protective measures you take. To keep your hair in good shape, selecting the appropriate temperature range based on your hair type and texture is essential.

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For normal hair, aim for a range of 126-176 degrees Celsius. If you have fine hair, keeping it at 93-160 degrees Celsius or below is best, while thick and multi-textured hair will be safer at around 160-204 degrees Celsius.

Beauty experts often advise against going over 210 degrees Celsius, as temperatures beyond this point can begin to melt the keratin in your hair.

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