We get it. A good hair day is the best kind of day. But using heat on your hair often may be causing more damage than you realise. So, this is your one-stop shop for upping your knowledge on heat-damaged hair. Find out what causes the damage, what to look for and how to avoid it. Let’s go!
How does heat damage your hair?
First things first; heat is not inherently bad for your hair. Healthy strands can withstand temperatures up to 232°C on occasion. But for those of us who reach for the blow dryer, straighteners or curlers most days, this can lead to heat damage.
Now let’s look at the science behind this. Your hair is made up of three layers. The outer layer is called the cuticle, which works to protect your hair. Heat can damage the cuticle reducing this protection. This leads to moisture loss and damaged hair.
The second layer that we’re interested in is the middle layer called the cortex. This layer contains keratin proteins which give your hair its shape. These proteins form bonds that help retain moisture and provide strength to the hair. One of these bonds is a hydrogen bond and guess what… these can be broken by heat. This can change the shape of your hair and extended heat use can dry the cortex out.
Signs of heat damage
- Dull-looking hair – The cuticles of your hair make it shiny. When these are damaged your hair will be dull, even after washing.
- Dryness – Damaged hair doesn’t maintain moisture. This can lead to split ends, which as we all know are super annoying!
- Breakage – Heat-damaged hair loses its elasticity. This combined with split ends increases the chance of your hair breaking off, which can lead to those pesky flyaways.
- Rough texture – If your hair doesn’t feel silky-smooth, it could be a sign of heat damage.
- Knots and tangles – Hair cuticles are made of shingles (lots of tiny overlapping pieces). When hair cuticles are damaged, the shingles stick out causing strands to easily knot.
- Change in colour – Damaged hair is more porous so it may absorb too much of your hair dye, making it darker than expected. Your colour may also fade more quickly, which is a little heartbreaking.
How to avoid heat-damaged hair
Keep your hair healthy
Healthy hair is the key to reducing damage. Using heat protection and giving your hair the nourishment it needs is essential so try not to skip this step out. Why not give our Styleformer Nourish a try? Specially formulated with 4 blended precious and rich oils to strengthen the hair fibre and restore damaged and dry hair by adding moisture and shine. Your hair will look visibly healthier and radiant giving you a glossy finish. Shop now.
Reduce the temperature
In love with your straighteners? We know, we love them too but to reduce heat damage make sure to turn the temperature down. It’s also great to have heat-free days. Why not give our Curlformers a try? They give you the perfect curl without any heat at all! Shop now.
Ready to take care of your hair?
We’re here for you every step of the way. Getting the look you want doesn’t need to damage your hair. Find more heat-free hair tips over on our blog.
