The Best Heat Protectant for Natural Hair
Lets see how easy it can be to find a heat protectant that will keep your natural hair incredible all year round.
Looking for a heat protectant for natural hair? You've come to the right place!
Whether you're getting ready for a night out on the town or styling your hair every day, it's essential to use a heat protectant that won't damage your fragile curls.
From mousses and sprays to conditioning oils and gels, there are plenty of options available but which one is truly going to give you that extra protection against high temperatures?
Here, we'll help you decide by rounding up some of our top picks so you can find the perfect product for protecting your hair from damaging heat appliances!
When it comes to the hair follicle we all want to strengthen and keep our hair soft.
You're gonna need a little help to make sure your strands are protected from the flat ironing, hot curlers, and the blow dryer.
A heat protectant is needed because it creates a barrier between your naturally curly hair and the high temperatures to prevent your delicate hair cuticle from getting damaged.
It also helps lock in moisture to your textured hair, reduce frizz, and add shine to your hair.
Applying a heat protectant to your natural hair effectively involves a few crucial steps.
- Cleanse your hair: Always start with clean hair to ensure that the heat protectant can effectively coat your strands. Buildup from other products can prevent the protectant from doing its job.
- Section your hair: Divide your hair into sections to ensure you are evenly applying the heat protectant. This is especially important if you have thick or long hair.
- Apply the protectant: The protectant should be applied from root to tip for comprehensive coverage. Avoid applying directly to your scalp.
- Distribute the product: Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to distribute the product evenly through your hair.
- Wait for the product to dry: Allow the product to dry before using a curling iron. Applying heat to wet hair can cause damage.
By following these steps, you can maintain the health, strength, and shine of your natural hair while styling it as desired.
It's about having your style, and protecting it too!
In addition to using a heat protectant, there are also other precautions you can take to minimize damage to your natural hair.
These include:
- Limiting the use of heat-styling tools: Try to limit the use of curlers, flat irons, and blow dryers to special occasions or once a week at most.
- Lowering the temperature: Use the lowest heat setting possible to achieve your desired style. This will reduce the amount of heat damage to your hair.
- Using alternative styling methods: Consider using non-heat methods, such as flexi rods or roller sets, to achieve curly or wavy styles without heat.
- Pre-treating with natural oils: Apply a nourishing oil, like coconut or argan oil, to your hair before using heat-styling tools. This can provide an extra layer of protection for your hair.
Heat protectants
It's important to regularly deep condition and trim your hair to maintain its health. This will also help prevent split ends and breakage caused by heat damage. With proper care and attention, you can have healthy natural hair while still being able to achieve your desired styles with heat.
Healthy hair is beautiful hair. By incorporating these tips and using a heat protectant, you can continue to rock your natural locks while keeping them protected from heat damage. Keep in mind that prevention is key when it comes to maintaining the health of your hair
In addition to using this type of product, it's also important to limit the use of heat-styling tools and opt for lower heat settings when possible.
Deep conditioning treatments and protective hairstyles can also help minimize damage from heat styling.
Taking care of your natural hair is a commitment, but with the right products and techniques, you can achieve beautiful styles without compromising your hair's health.
Your natural hair will thank you for it! Keep in mind that the key to beautiful hair is not just about styling, but also proper care and protection.
With these tips, you can rock any hairstyle without worrying about damaging your natural hair.
Here's to healthy and gorgeous locks! So go ahead and slay those heat-styled looks with confidence. Let your hair be a reflection of your individuality and beauty,
Our Top Picks for Heat Styling
Best Heat Protectant for No Added Build-up
CHI Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray 8 Fl oz
Helps to protect hair from thermal damage and breakage with a weightless formula with no added build-up. Helps to seal the cuticle and works to prevent future damage.
Leaves hair so soft and smooth! Hair that is usually frizzy will become dreamy and flowy. Not to mention, the mild scent is a great bonus!
It comes in an 8oz flaming red bottle! I guess this is to let you know it’s ready for the heat! It's enriched with vitamins and proteins, making it a great option for strengthening and nourishing natural hair.
Plus, it's suitable for all hair types. Just spray onto damp or dry hair before heat styling to protect your tresses. It also smells amazing!
Best Heat Protectant for High Heat Settings
HSI Professional Argan Oil Heat Protector 8 Fl oz
This product is strictly for heat protection.
So this is great for 4c curly heads! We don’t want to straighten, but we must at least every 3-6 months to maintain those split ends.
So when you do! Make sure you’re protected up to 450 degrees.
Silk press with confidence while enhancing your hair's shine.
It's not greasy at all, so you won't have to worry about weighing down your hair. Plus, it has the bonus of argan oil for added nourishment and moisture.
Comes in a 2 or 8 oz bottle, and can be used on natural hair or extensions.
Best Heat Protectant for Blocking Heat
Cantu Thermal Shield Heat Protectant with Shea Butter 5.1 Fl oz
It has a great scent and helps protect up to 425 degrees of heat, from hot styling tools.
Doesn’t leave the hair sticky with product buildup.
It is very great for the value, does the same and more as expensive brands. The bottle color is of a strawberry hue and comes in a 5.1 oz size.
In addition to protecting your hair from heat damage, these products also offer other benefits such as adding shine, reducing frizz, and nourishing the hair with ingredients like argan oil and shea butter.
We understand that not all hair types are the same, which is why we make sure to include products that cater to different needs.
Best Heat Protectant for Natural Ingredients
Straight Silk Spray with Argan Oil Unscented 6 Fl oz
Doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals, alcohol or any other substances known to be damaging to hair.
The heat protectant will not permanently change the texture of your natural hair. It keeps the hair straight, shiny and smooth.
It helps to offer a salon finish look, protecting your hair from heat damage up to 450 degrees. This product also doubles as a detangler, making it perfect for those with curly hair.
Not only will it protect your hair from heat, but it will also make the straightening process easier and more efficient.
Question and answers:
Does heat protectant work on 4C hair?
Yes, it can be used on 4C hair to protect it from heat damage and keep it healthy. However, it is important to choose a heat protectant specifically formulated for your hair type for best results. Look for products with nourishing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, and coconut oil to keep your 4C hair moisturized and protected.
How do I know if my heat protectant is working?
You can tell if this barrier is working by noticing a reduction in frizz and breakage after using heated styling tools. Your hair should also feel smooth and soft instead of dry and brittle. Regular use of a natural heat protectant creme can also help maintain the overall health of your hair.
Does heat damage hair with heat protectant?
While they can help minimize damage, it is still important to use heated styling tools in moderation and at lower temperatures to prevent excessive damaged hair. It is also crucial to follow proper heat styling techniques and use the right tools for your hair type. Good heat protectant spray can help further healthy hair growth, but it cannot eliminate hair breakage. So it is important to use the hot tool responsibly and incorporate other hair care practices, such as deep conditioning treatments, to keep your hair healthy.
Can I use a heat protectant on wet hair?
It is recommended to use a protective barrier on dry or damp hair before using any heated styling tools. This allows the product to be distributed evenly and provides maximum protection. Applying a heat protectant on wet hair can dilute the product and may not provide enough protection against heat damage. Additionally, styling wet hair with heated tools can cause excessive damage as damp hair is more fragile and prone to breakage.
What's the best heat protectant for Afro hair?
There are many options for protective barriers that work well on Afro hair, including those specifically formulated for curly and coily hair types. Some popular choices include products containing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and argan oil. It is important to choose a product that works best for your individual needs and preferences. So, it's always recommended to try out different products before settling on one as the best fit for your hair type.
Is it better to put heat protectant on wet or dry hair?
It is generally recommended to apply a heat protector on dry or damp hair before using heated styling tools. This allows the product to be distributed evenly and provides maximum protection. However, some spray-on heat protectants can be applied to wet hair as well. It is important to read the instructions on the product and follow them accordingly.
Can I skip using a heat protectant if I have natural hair?
No, it is still important to use heat protectant sprays even if you have natural hair. While natural hair may be more resilient than chemically treated hair, it can still suffer from heat damage without proper protection. Use a heat protectant with your styling routine. This helps maintain the health of your natural hair and prevent breakage caused by excessive heat styling. So, it is always recommended to use a heat protectant for all hair types.
Do I put hair oil or heat protectant first?
It is recommended to apply a heat protectant first before any hair oils. This allows the high heat protectant to create a barrier between your hair and the heated styling tool, preventing damage. Hair oils can then be applied afterward for added moisture and shine. However, some products combine both heat protection and nourishing oils, so it is important to read the label and follow the instructions for the best results.
How often should I use a heat protectant?
The frequency of using a heat protectant depends on how often you use heated styling tools on your hair. If you regularly use curling irons or flat irons, it is recommended to use a heat protectant every time before styling. However, if you only occasionally use heated tools, using a heat protectant once or twice a week should suffice.
What temperature should you silk press natural hair?
When silk pressing natural hair, it is important to use a temperature between 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Any higher than this can cause excessive heat damage and lead to breakage. It is also recommended to use a titanium or ceramic flat iron, as they evenly distribute heat and reduce the risk of hot spots and uneven styling.
How do I choose the right heat protectant?
There are many different types of heat protectants available, and it is important to choose one that works best for your hair type. Look for products that specifically mention heat protection or thermal protection on the label. It is also beneficial to choose a product with added moisture, as heat can strip natural oils from the hair. Consider consulting with a hairstylist or doing research to find a suitable heat protectant for your specific hair needs. Additionally, make sure to read reviews and compare ingredients before making a purchase.
How often should naturals get a silk press?
It is recommended to get a silk press every 8-12 weeks, depending on your hair's growth and overall health. It is important to listen to your hair and assess its condition before scheduling a silk press appointment. If your hair is feeling dry or damaged, it may be best to wait longer between presses to allow for proper nourishment and recovery. Regular trims and deep conditioning treatments can also help keep your hair healthy and ready for a silk press. Remember, less is more when it comes to heat styling natural hair.
Are there natural alternatives to store-bought heat protectants?
Yes, some natural ingredients can act as heat protectants for your hair. These include oils like coconut oil, argan oil, and avocado oil, which can create a barrier between your hair and heat tools. Aloe vera gel can also provide some heat protection and add moisture to the hair. However, keep in mind that these natural alternatives may not have the same level of protection as store-bought products, so it is important to use them in conjunction with other protective measures.
