How to Use Heat Tools for Hair

How to Use Heat Tools for Hair

There are so many different types of hair heating tools out there these days. There are flat irons, curling irons, curling wands, crimpers, wavers, and so many more heat tools. These are all so great because we can achieve nearly any hairstyle we want to do through the use of heat tools. Unfortunately, the use of heat tools leads to damage to our hair, especially if you are not using your tools correctly and safely. Well, today I am going to be sharing with you a few common mistakes that you may not even know that you are doing that will lead to damage or not getting the result that you want.

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How to Use Hair Heating Tools

Don't Turn the Heat Up Too High

A lot of people jump right into cranking the heat up on heat tools because they think that it won't work properly if you don't. I am here to tell you, PLEASE do not do this unless that is right for your hair type. Most heat tools go up to either 400-450 degrees so I'm going to break down what temperature you should be using based on your hair texture.

• Fine Hair 350-375 degrees: If you have really fine hair you will want to keep your temperature in around the middle of the temperature gauge. Do not go above around 375 degrees, I promise you will achieve the result you want without adding unnecessary damage.
• Normal Hair 375-400: If you have fairly normal hair and it is in pretty good health you can go up to around 400 degrees and be safe with your heat tools.
• Coarse/Textured Hair 400-425: When you have very thick and coarse hair you have to crank up the heat a decent amount, try to keep as low as you can while still achieving your result but you should be able to push it up to about 425 and still be safe with using heat tools.

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Use Heat Protectant

This is a big one! Heat protectant spray creates a barrier between your hair and the hot tool, minimizing heat damage and preventing dryness, frizz, and split ends. Whenever you are using any type of heat tool on your hair you will want to make sure you are using a heat protectant. The last thing you want to do is add additional damage to your hair and heat protectants are made to create a shield on your hair from the heat seeping into the cortex of your hair.

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How to Use Heat Tools for Hair

Don't Go Over the Same Pieces Repeatedly

A lot of people especially when flat ironing their hair go over the same pieces several times to get it as straight as they want. Do not do this!! Repeatedly going over the same piece is going to cause a lot of unnecessary work and a lot of unnecessary damage to your hair as well. Instead of doing this just do one slow run over that piece and it will get nice and straight for you.

Use the Proper Heat Setting

Different hair types require different heat settings. Using a heat setting that's too high for your hair type can cause serious damage. For example, fine hair only needs low to medium heat, while thick hair can handle higher heat settings. Always consult your heat tool's instructions or your hairstylist for guidance.

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Be Careful of Over-Styling Your Hair

Constantly using heat tools like straighteners, curling irons, or blow dryers can wreak havoc on your hair. Try to limit heat styling to a few times a week and give your hair some rest days in between.

Let Your Hair Cool Down

Heat styling loosens the hair cuticle. It's important to let your hair cool down completely before brushing or styling it further. This allows the cuticle to close properly, which helps lock in moisture and keeps your hair looking healthy.

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How to Use Heat Tools for Hair

Don't Use a Dull or Dirty Heat Tool

Over time, hair heating tools can build up product residue and become dull. This can lead to uneven heat distribution and damage your hair. Regularly clean your heat tools according to the manufacturer's instructions and replace them when they become dull or worn out.

Clean Your Brushes and Combs Regularly

Dirty brushes and combs can trap product buildup and dirt, which can then be transferred to your hair when you style it. Make sure to clean your brushes and combs regularly to prevent this.

If you are doing any of the things I talked about above, stop!! These things are hurting your hair and causing a lot of unnecessary damage that your hair doesn't need. A lot of us do things that are ruining our hair all of the time and if you are someone that colors/lightens your hair don't allow your heat tools to add more damage to your hair. Take care of your hair and don't overdo it on the heat tools.

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