With constant styling from blow dries, curling and straightening, it’s no wonder many of us are suffering with heat-damaged hair.
But first, what does heat damage do to hair?
Heat damaged hair happens when the hair cuticles are broken. The cuticles are the outer layers of each strand of hair, and they're made up of proteins that form shingles, a bit like a roof. These shingles overlap to keep strands moisturised and protected.
Heat damage causes these shingles to rise up, exposing the inner layer of hair and when this happens, your hair will become dehydrated and struggle to contain moisture.
How can you tell if you have heat damaged hair?
It’s quite obvious as your hair will look dull, and feel dry and brittle. If you’re a curly girl, you might notice you’ve lost your natural bounce. Straight hair loses its sleekness and you might see more split ends and flyaway hairs.
Five ways to repair heat damaged hair
Get a haircut
The most dramatic heat damaged hair treatment option is cutting your hair. This is the only way to 'undo damage because you're removing hair that has split ends, hair that's damaged and has been weakened by over-use of hot tools.
Get a trim
If you aren't ready for a complete haircut, getting a trim off the ends of your hair can help while allowing you to keep the length.
Switch products
Aim for products that are free from sulfates and parabens and made specifically for damaged hair. Damaged hair shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in conditioners add moisture into your hair and help to rebuild the broken protein bonds. If you wash your hair daily, consider going a little longer between washes to allow some of the natural oils to build up and create a protective barrier around your hair.
Do a weekly hair mask
Heat damaged hair has become severely dehydrated because the moisture is stripped when you use a hairdryer, straighteners or curlers on a high heat setting. You can help rehydrate your hair with a moisturizing hair mask once or twice a week.
Use a heat protectant
Heat protectant sprays create a barrier between your hair and the hot tools, so you can dry and style your hair without causing more damage. And the great thing is, heat protectants can be applied to dry or wet hair.