Unfortunately, it can do a number on our tresses.

Read on to learn about every step you’re free to take to mitigate this unfortunate occurrence.

Meet the Experts

What Is Heat Damage?

Singer Addison Rae looking over her shoulder, hair long and shiny

@claytonhawkins/ Instagram

It’s pretty straightforward: Heat damage is when your hair gets damaged by applying heat to it.

“You know your hair is damaged whenit appears dehydrated, dull, limp, and frizzy.

Damaged hair can also feel rough and brittle,” explains Saedi.

If any of those attributes describe your hair, you’re probably wondering if the situation can be reversed.

Sadei adds that “heat damage can change the structure of the hair.

Heat protectants “both hydrate and protect the hair strand,” explains Saedi.

“The ingredients that protect it do so by creating a barrier that acts like a heat shield.”

“Heat protection starts in the shower,” says Saedi.

Verret agrees on the importance of shampoo and conditioner.

“Moisture gives the hair the ability to stretch.

Without it, our hair becomes brittle… leaving it a candidate for further breakage,” she explains.

“Hair loses a lot of moisture from heat damage.

In addition to washing less often, you might want to do a moisturizing pre-wash when you do.

“There aremany different hair maskswith different ingredients that can help you improve the condition of your hair.”

Verrett suggests ceramic materials for your heating tools.

“Ceramic plates/rads help distribute heat evenly, leaving the hair glossier,” she says.

If you want to avoid an iron altogether, opt for a hair dryer instead.

“I recommend SpoiledChild’s M26 Damage Reverser,” says Verrett.

“you’re free to help porous hair with products that includekeratin,” suggests Saedi.

“This will help strengthen it and keep it hydrated.”