This is how the heat protector for hair works: in addition, we tell you how to choose the best one

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Yes, there are must-have hair products, and heat protectant for hair is definitely one of them! Invariably, one of the most recurrent styling processes is the use of thermal tools, and although we wish it weren’t this way —due to the havoc they cause—, the truth is that it is almost impossible to do without them.

Fortunately, no matter how many times you have to style your hair by subjecting it to high temperatures, the thermal protector will always be your best ally. This works by shielding the hair, and making it resistant to high temperatures. It acts as a shield, covering the hair cuticle, protecting it and minimizing damage.

These are usually leave-in products in the form of sprays, styling creams, or oils. These can prevent hair from burning, cracking, and drying out. Some commercial brands even handle protectors with a UV filter.

Brunette model getting a blowdry with a blow dryer and a round brush
The heat shield prevents damage caused by the use of heat tools. Credit: All Things Hair.

The best heat protectants for hair

First look at the ingredients. In general, effective formulas, whether spray, oil or cream, usually contain PVP/DMAPA acrylates copolymer, quaternium-70 and hydrolyzed wheat protein: active ingredients that form a thin film on the hair surface, slowing down the conduction of heat and distributing it evenly. This means that the hair will gradually heat up to lessen the impact, resulting in less damage.

On the other hand, silicones are commonly used to help transfer heat slowly when coating the hair fibers, and also act as a seal on the cuticle to reduce moisture loss and help protect from heat damage.

Likewise, it is recommended that your product contain humectants such as panthenol or propylene glycol; amino acids like keratin; or natural oils such as grape seed or argan oil.

heat protectant for hair iron

Please note that heat protectant for hair only reduces damage caused by heat styling; even the best results show about 50% protection, at most. Therefore, it is better to refrain from using tools ––such as the iron–– more than necessary and make sure to keep the temperature between 120 and 210 °C, depending on your hair type. You can guide yourself with the following infographic…

Temperature infographic for hair straightener with heat protector for hair
In addition to the heat protector, it is essential to program the iron (or any other tool) at a temperature that does not damage your hair type. Take note! Credit: All Things Hair.

Editor’s tip: In the case of the dryer, use it 20 centimeters away from your hair, avoid sticking it to it as much as possible, without interfering with the results.

Heat protectant for homemade hair

Both argan oil and coconut and almond oil are natural ingredients that are usually contained in the formulas of thermal protectors. Despite the fact that the results from direct use on the hair have not been scientifically proven, they are an option that many claim to be effective. Of course, be careful with the application mode and follow the instructions to the letter to avoid damage.

Method of preparation:

  1. Dilute a tablespoon of the natural oil of your choice with half a cup of water.
  2. Once you’ve done that, pour the mixture into a spray bottle and shake.
  3. Spray it on damp hair and let dry.

Editor’s tip: If your hair is very fine and tends to be oily, it is better that you apply this mixture away from the roots, only from the mid-lengths to the ends. Also, almond oil is the best option.

Homemade heat protectant for hair with coconut oil
Dilute half a cup of water with a tablespoon of your favorite oil and spray it on damp hair as a heat protectant. Credit: Shutterstock.

Although, on the contrary, if your hair is very thick, coconut oil or argan oil will work better for you. And the same advice applies: if your scalp is oily, avoid it at the roots.

Direct use of heat tools — such as curling irons, flat irons, and blow dryers — at temperatures above 130°C can weaken and destroy hair’s proteins, as well as destroy the natural oils that keep it moisturized, stripping it of internal moisture. Consequently, the hair becomes dry, weak and prone to breakage and generate split ends over time. Also, color pigments can start to change, turning, for example, blonde or bleached hair orange.

Editor’s tip: If you notice your hair is dry, brittle, frizzy and prone to split ends, it may be damaged and need special care. Hair masks, deep conditioning treatments, repairing shampoos, and highlights can help. For example, him shampoo and TRESemmé Shielding & Regeneration Conditioner They have been professionally developed with biotin and black quinoa to nourish and protect hair. Its formula restructures the inside of the hair, making it up to 100 times stronger and more resistant against harmful external factors.

Another excellent option for taking care of hair is the Sedal Quinoa y Linaza line, which includes shampoo, conditioner and styling cream. These products are free of salt, parabens, and dyes, and are formulated with natural ingredients like coconut oil to soften, hydrate, straighten, and protect hair from breakage.

Always, before using any heat tool, you should apply a heat protectant, whether homemade or commercial. Some products work better on damp or dry hair, so be sure to read the directions carefully.

Without touching the roots, apply it to each strand—if it’s a spray, 15 centimeters away—and reapply if your hair is thick. Pass a comb to distribute it evenly and wait a few minutes for it to dry.

Do you have more questions and are you looking for inspiration? Follow us on @allthingshairmex.

The post This is how the heat protector for hair works: in addition, we tell you how to choose the best one appeared first on All Things Hair Mexico.



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