Most women may already own one or two heating tools in their styling arsenal. From owning a blow dryer, curling iron, curling wands, flat irons or even owning a hot hair brush – the list simply goes on.
Women have these hair styling tools for a reason, and this is to create beautiful and new hairstyles especially when attending special occasions like weddings, parties, anniversaries, and the like.
While these hot hair styling tools are essential to give you a new look or styling your hair, they can wreak havoc on your hair especially when not used properly.
The extreme heat used in these hot hair tools can break hair strands and to some extent, permanently burn and damage them. Hence, it is essential to know how to use them properly and learn about the safety measures to prevent damage.
Every hair type has a different preferable heat setting. Every type of heating tool also has its own heat settings that depend on different considerations.
Hair texture
One of the most essential considerations is your hair texture. Your hair texture defines the strength or how strong your hair can withstand any external conditions. Thick hair means that you have a greater number of protective outermost layers that can keep your hair from being damaged. The greater number of protective outer layers you have, the less prone it is to get damaged.
But if you have thin hair, the outer protective layers are lesser which is most likely prone to heat damage.
Hair health
Having healthy hair has more probability of resisting heat. Unfortunately, if you already have unhealthy hair, it will burn faster and it will be best to stay away from using hot hair tools as much as possible.
Moisture content
If your scalp produces a lot of moisture and natural oils, then it is less likely to get damaged when using hot hair tools. Because the moisture will act as a protective coating and prevents your hair from getting damaged by the intense heat.
However, if your hair is already damaged, it is best to give your hair a break and stop using hot hair tools in the meantime.
Hair’s natural condition
If your hair is naturally dry, then you can’t use too much heat. Choosing lower heat settings is the best way when styling your hair. Using extremely heated tools will leave your hair dull, broken, and lifeless.
Haircare products
The kind or type of hair products you are using matters when styling your hair with hot hair tools. If you have colour-treated hair and want to maintain its colour, then you might want to avoid using these types of tools.
Applying extra conditioner or too much shampooing may not give you the style you want. So, make sure to wash your hair thoroughly to get rid of the extra build-up of hair care products. It is best to use deep cleansing shampoo to break down any additional product build-up in your hair.
Furthermore, here are heat indexes of some hot hair tools that you can use to protect your hair from too much heat damage:
Blow dryers
Hair blow dryers typically have a heating temperature of 30 to 60 degrees Celsius. With maximum heat settings, it is enough to burn your hair and even your scalp. Professional stylists usually recommend keeping the setting on moderate to high setting because it will dry your hair faster without causing damage.
The fan speed and the amount of heat your hairdryer produces are related. The higher the speed, the faster it is for your hair to dry. However, if the speed becomes slow and the heat remains at its maximum, then the chances for your hair to get damaged is high.
If you have extra time, make sure to dry your hair using a blow dryer and let the remaining moisture air dry.
Flat irons
Straightening your hair requires more heat than curling your hair. Hence, flat irons have higher heat levels than curling irons or curling wands.
Flat irons usually work between 120 to 200 degrees Celsius. Hence, for every hair type, the suggested heat should be below 150 to 190 degrees threshold or else, your hair will get damaged and burned.
For thinner or fine hair, 175 degrees is a safer setting. On the other hand, thicker hair can withstand over 190 to 200 degrees. Anything higher than that setting is not good for your hair.
Curling irons
Curling irons nowadays have different heat settings which are good depending on your hair type. It is a good rule to keep your tool under 400 degrees to prevent hair damage.
Additionally, when using any heating tools, use a hair protectant to add an extra layer of protection to your hair. Be sure to do a once or twice a month deep conditioning and hair mask. It is also essential to rest your hair and stop using heating tools once in a while.
Fun fact about Nicola: She owns a lot of sunscreens as she carries a mini sunscreen in each of her handbags and backpacks.
- How to Massage Eyes – Tips and Recommendations - July 1, 2022
- Do Eye Massagers Work? A Short Explanation - June 3, 2022
- 7 Top Benefits of an Eye Massage - May 13, 2022
