Getting Heat Right

A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Heat Safely on Your Hair

Source: Allure

Let’s face it, heat helps achieve sleek styles or bouncy curls. However, without proper care, heat can also lead to damage, dryness, and breakage. This article provides a comprehensive guide to using heat safely on your hair, ensuring it stays healthy, strong, and beautiful.

Before we do that, here are key things to remember when dealing with heat on your hair:

Step 1: Start with Clean Hair

Always begin with freshly washed and conditioned hair. This ensures that your hair is free from dirt, oil, and product build-up, which can cause further damage when heat is applied. Opt for a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo and a deep conditioning treatment to give your hair the moisture it needs.

Step 2: Use a Heat Protectant

Never skip this step! A heat protectant is essential to shield your hair from the damaging effects of heat styling. Look for a product that offers protection up to 230°C (450°F). Apply it evenly throughout your hair, ensuring every strand is coated.

Step 3: Adjust the Temperature

Using the right temperature is crucial. For fine or damaged hair, keep the heat setting below 150°C (300°F). For normal hair, 150°C-190°C (300°F-375°F) is ideal. If you have thick or coarse hair, you can go up to 230°C (450°F), but always start at a lower temperature and increase as needed. Remember, lower temperatures are always safer.

Step 4: Section Your Hair

Sectioning your hair allows for even heat distribution and better styling results. Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips. This also prevents you from going over the same strand multiple times, reducing the risk of heat damage.

Step 5: Choose the Right Tools

Invest in high-quality heat styling tools. Ceramic or tourmaline flat irons and curling wands distribute heat more evenly and reduce the risk of damage. Ensure your tools are clean and in good working condition to avoid any snags or uneven heating.

Step 6: Don’t Overdo It

Less is more when it comes to heat styling. Avoid going over the same section multiple times. One or two passes with a flat iron or curling wand should be sufficient if you're using the right temperature. Overuse can lead to dryness and breakage.

Step 7: Post Heat Care

After styling, give your hair some extra TLC. Use a lightweight oil or serum to seal in moisture and add shine. Avoid heavy products that can weigh your hair down. Remember to deep condition your hair regularly to maintain its health and strength.

While heat styling can be a fantastic way to achieve different looks, it's best to keep hear at a minimum. Try to keep heat styling to once or twice a week and opt for heat-free styles in between to give your hair a break.

Using heat doesn’t have to mean damaging your hair. By following these steps, you can enjoy sleek, styled hair while keeping it healthy and strong. Always prioritise your hair’s health, and remember, it’s all about balance.

Love MPL,

Your Hair Doctor.