8 heat protectants that'll help shield your hair from damage
Spray (most of) the guilt away
By Team BEAUTYcrew
May 16 2024
We all know heat styling isn’t the best for the health of your hair, but since we're still partial to the confidence boost a good blow-dry gives us, we can't hang them up completely, okay? Sue us.
However, because we want to have the best of both worlds (perfectly coiffed waves and as fewer split ends as possible), a good heat protectant is key.
What do heat protecting products do?
As the name suggests, a heat protectant for hair shields hair that’s about to be styled by a blow-dryer, straightening iron, curling tong or any other form of heat styling tool, from the damaging effects that these high heats can have on your strands. They create a protective barrier over your hair cuticle to slow down heat absorption, while also distributing heat more evenly to reduce potential damage.
Of course, they don't give you 100 per cent protection, but they definitely minimise how much damage those extreme heats cause to your hair. Most heat protectants will simultaneously lock in moisture and reduce water evaporation, too, which is also greatly appreciated. You can even find some that speed up your blow-dry time; bonus.
The best heat protectant products in Australia
2024's Top 3 Heat Protectants
-
Davroe Thermaprotect, $24.95, Adore Beauty
- Kérastase Elixir Ultime Beautifying Hair Oil, $80, Kérastase
- ghd Bodyguard Heat Protect Spray, $45, Sephora
How do you choose the right one?
It can be hard to know if a heat protectant is working, so it can feel like it's a bit of a waste of effort, but we promise it's not. Basically, if you’ve never used a good one then you may think that parched, coarse feel you get every time you straighten your hair is simply normal. But it’s when you start seeing the health of your hair improve (even with daily heat styling) that you know you’ve found a keeper.
Most heat protectants will work on any hair type, but keep in mind that fine hair may find a cream or oil formula too heavy. Also, if your hair has specific needs, such as requiring extra hydration, repairing properties, protection from colour fade or frizz-fighting help, there are formulas out there that tackle these, in addition to providing heat protection.
Phew, a lot to take in, huh? Well, don't worry; we've done the formula-finding work for you. So, without further ado, here are our favourite heat protectants...
Should you put heat protectant sprays on wet or dry hair?
When it comes to protecting your strands against heat-based damage, the world's your oyster. For most heat protectant sprays you can spritz your strands in the protective treatment no matter if they’re wet or dry. Although it’s always best to double check what it says on the can you’re before spraying away.
After a leave-in conditioner to try next? Here are our recommendations...
Main image credit: @olaplex
