You often ask me if blow-drying is okay and if it ruins the hair. The answer is more complicated than you think. I’ll try to clear up all doubts and also share some foolproof products that I use to guard my hair from thermal damage.
We can use a hairdryer in a proper or improper way which determines whether hair gets hurt or not. Naturally, the device matters. Up-to-date tools are ionic and have automatic heat control and I definitely recommend getting one but I’m aware they’re not budget-friendly. On the other hand, even the most advanced device may cause damage if used the wrong way. Therefore, while blow-drying, always remember to:
- set cool air stream
- hold the dryer at least eight inches away from the scalp and hair
- dry the hair evenly, not directing the nozzle at one section of hair for too long
- allow the hair ends to dry naturally
- apply a heat protectant spray, always!
I want to focus on the last point. There are more and more heat protectants being released and it may be hard to get a good one. I’m coming to the rescue, though. I’ve tried tons of them and know which ones to keep and which ones to toss!
Check out 3 best hair products for heat protection
#1 Nanoil Heat Protectant Spray
The unquestioned number one for hair protection. I use it most often and liked it after just one application. Nanoil Heat Protectant Spray is a must before my blow-dry routine, but I use it in other situations too. It’s my top choice while curling or flat-ironing, handling the highest temperatures. I also take it to the beach and apply it before sunbathing to prevent sun-damaged strands. It’s a multitasker and I make the most of it. Shockingly, it brings many more benefits. Because it gives wonderful smoothness, I always reach for it before straightening. On top of that, it leaves the hair luminous and smells great. There’s no stickiness but softness. I guess it’s thanks to silk proteins which have an extra moisturizing effect. Nanoil Heat Protectant Spray is easy to use and we can see how much product is left in the bottle. Though I use it all the time, I still haven’t used up the bottle.
#2 Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer
Here’s another light spray. It’s not heavy despite the six oils in the formula! Among others it’s macadamia nut oil, coconut oil and almond oil. I think it may weigh very thin hair down, but it’s okay on my strands. If you try it and it’s too thick, then I suggest using it as serum for hair ends. Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer fulfils its purpose effectively protecting against heat, plus has an amazing extra smoothing effect and adds resilience. One more bonus, if your hair is curly, then this spray will help you define the curl! The product is also available in a smaller travel-friendly size (60ml). I’ve got the standard 250-ml bottle.
#3 Kerastase Chronologiste Thermique Regenerant
The third product on my list is slightly different. It’s cream which also proves amazing for heat protection and brings some extra benefits, but the application may be a bit problematic because we need to work out the right amount and then spread it evenly across the hair. To be honest I tended to apply too much at first, but then I learnt to get the optimal amount. Kerastase Chronologiste Thermique Regenerant leaves the hair slightly smoother, and what’s great, free from flyaways and frizz. The rich formula, including hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, take credit for that. It’s a good option provided that you apply the right amount of the cream. As far as negatives go, I think it’s too costly and too small (150 ml).
I hope today’s post comes useful and you’ll know how to blow-dry your hair without ruining it.
I’m dying to know your ways to safeguard the hair from heat damage. Do you use a heat protectant or is it something you haven’t heard of before?
Till next time! <3