Using too much heat strips your hair of its moisture, which leaves an open opportunity for breakage. Overcoming heat damage was one of my biggest hurdles when I first began to transition. Then, I had no idea how much harm I was doing to my hair by using heat tools every day. Yes, everyday! Thankfully, through research and experimenting I was able to find ways to reduce heat damage. Here are a few helpful tips that could help you also avoid heat damage:
- Shampoo your hair before using heat.
- Deep condition for at least 30 minutes. Be sure to rinse the conditioner out good.
- Allow your hair to air dry a little before blow drying. Always blow dry on low or medium setting. Remember, too much heat can cause heat damage as well.
- Apply a heat protectant before blow drying.
- If you are going to use a flat iron or curling iron, apply a heat protectant again before using either. Also flat iron your hair on low-medium setting.
- Try not to use heat after day one. I usually use flexi rods or rollers instead of using a flat iron to curl my hair every day.
- Once you are ready to wash your hair after straightening, deep condition again.
Bonus Tip:
If you do not feel comfortable using heat, allow a professional hair stylist to apply heat to your hair. But, do not allow just anyone to play in your hair. Ask around and find the right person for the job!