We’ve all blow-dried, straightened, or curled our hair at least once. After all, who doesn’t want a well set, nice hair-style? But, in order to avoid bad hair days, we’re leading ourselves to damaged hair days. The constant heat from these hair appliances may make your hair look good, but in the long run, you may have to deal with damaged hair. So, how to avoid that? Well, ask no more. Here are some tips to follow:
Temperature-adjustable appliance
Always purchase an appliance where temperature can be adjusted. Try using it at the lowest temperature possible because that ensures the least damage.
Size of the iron
The size of the iron plays an important role in damage control. For longer, thicker hair, a large appliance would be safer since it eliminates the need to do it over and over, and thus protects the quality of hair. For short, thinner hair, a small appliance will also do.
Dry your hair completely before the use of a straightener
If you’re using a straightener, make sure you dry your hair first, else it boils the moisture out of your hair.
Heat protectant
A heat protectant coats the layers of hair with a coat that protects the hair from damage. A spray is best for thin hair and a protectant oil for thick hair.
Heat sections differently
If you heat a huge chunk at one go, you run the possibility of burning it by keeping it one place for too long. So, take smaller and manageable chunks of hair at one go and heat it evenly to style it.
Moisturising shampoo
No matter the amount of protectants, you still lose some moisture from your hair. So, a deeply moisturising shampoo will nourish the hair and restore lost moisture and nutrients.
Conditioning
Conditioning helps hair recover its lost sheen. Apply conditioner after shampoo and keep it for a few minutes and then wash it off with cold water.
Cut and oil
Apart from the above steps, make sure you oil and cut your hair from time to time. Oiling will nourish your hair and cutting will get you rid of split ends and rough edges.