Heat styling tools like straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers have become essential in achieving different hairstyles. However, using these tools incorrectly can cause damage to our hair. To ensure that you maintain healthy and beautiful locks, it is important to follow a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to heat styling. In this article, we will explore the best practices for heat styling and the common mistakes to avoid.
The Do’s of Heat Styling
1. Use a heat protectant: Before applying any heat to your hair, always use a heat protectant spray or serum. This creates a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing the risk of damage.
2. Set the right temperature: Different hair types require different heat settings. Fine and thin hair should be styled at a lower temperature, while thick and coarse hair can handle higher heat. Experiment with different settings to find the one that works best for your hair.
3. Start with clean, dry hair: It is important to start with clean and dry hair before using any heat styling tools. Wet or damp hair is more vulnerable to damage, as the heat can cause the water in the hair shaft to boil and weaken the structure.
4. Section your hair: When using a heat styling tool, it is important to work in small sections. This ensures that each section receives equal heat distribution and allows for more precise styling.
5. Use a comb or brush: Before applying heat to each section, comb or brush through it to remove any tangles. This helps to distribute the heat evenly and prevents the hair from getting caught in the tool.
The Don’ts of Heat Styling
1. Use excessive heat: One of the biggest mistakes people make when heat styling is using excessive heat. High temperatures can cause damage to the hair shaft, leading to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Always start with a lower temperature and gradually increase if necessary.
2. Style wet or damp hair: As mentioned earlier, heat styling wet or damp hair is a big no-no. The excess moisture in the hair can cause it to become weak and prone to damage. Make sure your hair is completely dry before using any heat styling tools.
3. Overuse heat styling tools: Using heat styling tools every day can be detrimental to your hair’s health. Try to limit the use of these tools to a few times a week and give your hair a break in between. Opt for heatless styling methods on your off days.
4. Leave the heat styling tool on one section for too long: Leaving a heat styling tool, such as a flat iron or curling iron, on one section of hair for too long can cause excessive heat damage. Move the tool continuously through your hair to avoid overheating specific areas.
5. Neglect heat damaged hair: If you notice signs of heat damage such as dryness, frizz, or split ends, it is important to address it promptly. Cut off the damaged ends and invest in nourishing hair care products to restore health to your locks.
In conclusion, heat styling can be a great way to achieve different hairstyles, but it is crucial to follow the do’s and don’ts to protect your hair from damage. Using a heat protectant, setting the right temperature, and working in small sections are some of the do’s to remember. On the other hand, avoiding excessive heat, styling wet hair, and neglecting heat damaged hair are some of the don’ts to keep in mind. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of heat styling while maintaining the health and beauty of your hair.
