Keeping hair healthy when heat styling is sometimes a long and arduous war. Below, you'll find some of my tips on how I keep my hair healthy!
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- Heat Protectant. Many people neglect this step and it can result in dry hair and split ends. Most work by adding moisture back into the hair or providing a lubricant so that the iron will glide over the hair easily, giving you the desired look without you having to go over the section multiple times. Smoothing down the hair cuticles is another way these work. I always use the Tresemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray, which is great for fine hair as it doesn't weigh it down. Even when you're blow drying your hair, it is important to put some kind of heat protectant in to prevent the hair from drying out and becoming brittle. Heat protectant comes in a variety of textures, from mousse to liquid, so experiment with what works best for your hair!
- Heat Setting. Different hair textures require different settings. If you have finer and straighter hair, you don't need to turn it on to the hottest section--it'll just spell out more damage. Try using your heat tool on the lowest setting or the recommended setting for your hair texture, and work up if you're not getting the desired effect. Manufacturers will sometimes state the recommended settings for particular hair types. Remember, hotter isn't always better in this case.
- Alternate sections. When you are straightening or curling your hair and it doesn't come out the way you want, move onto another section and come back to the previous section after it has cooled; if you keep going over the same section, it will make the hair too hot and more prone to breakage.
- Check your Ingredients. Sometimes, hairsprays and other hair styling products contain ingredients that can dry your hair out. Alcohols can dry out the hair and certain silicones can prevent your hair from absorbing the necessary nutrients by coating the hair strand.
- Moisturize and Hydrate. After using your heat styling tools, it's important to add moisture back into your hair. Using a conditioner or hair mask with proteins, like keratin, can help strengthen your hair again. Just make sure not to overdo the proteins because it can the reverse effect of making your hair brittle. There's many DIY masks involving ingredients you can find in your kitchen, like mayo and avocado, that you can find online. Personally, I haven't tried any of them but many people have good results from these ingredients.
- Take a Break. Everyone loves the look of styled hair but heat can really take its toll. Try styling your hair 3 times a week or so, giving your hair a break to regain its strength. If you must style your hair, try using heatless options, like braids and such.
So that's all the tips I have for all your heat style loving ladies and gents out there! If there are any that you know of, please add them down below in the comments :D
XOXO,
MWAH ♥
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