Heat Protection Sprays

Heat protectants work by coating the hair strand with film-forming polymers and proteins that have high thermal stability. These create a barrier that distributes heat more evenly across the strand rather than concentrating it, and they partially absorb thermal energy that would otherwise damage the hair's protein and moisture content.

Hair protein begins to denature above 150 degrees Celsius. Cuticle damage accelerates above 180 degrees. Most flat irons and wands operate between 180 and 230 degrees, well above the damage threshold without protection. Fine and bleached hair is particularly vulnerable and should be styled at the lowest effective temperature.

Apply heat protectant to towel-blotted damp hair before blowdrying. For flat iron or curling wand use, ensure hair is completely dry before applying heat to avoid steam damage within the strand. Some heat protectants are designed specifically for wet use, some for dry use, and some for both. Check the product's instructions.

Even coverage is more important than quantity. Section hair and spray from about 20 to 30cm away, combing through each section to ensure distribution from root to tip. Fine hair needs less product than thick hair, but every section that will be touched by heat needs some coverage to be genuinely protected.