The 10 Best Heat Protection Sprays for Your Hair

Blow-drying, straightening and curling your hair can leave it feeling drier than the Sahara desert, not to mention completely and utterly damaged. Oh, the things we do…

But don’t get down just yet. You can still salvage your locks and keep them protected against devilish hairdryers and harmful heat styling tools. Say hello to heat protection sprays.

FAQs About Heat Protectants:

What is a hair heat protection spray?

A heat protection spray, also known as heat defence spray, is a formula that has been specially developed to protect your hair from the damage caused by styling tools such as hairdryers, curlers and straighteners.

It can come in the form of a spray, serum, cream or lotion and is applied to damp or dry hair before styling to reduce the chances of dryness and split ends. There are even formulas that you can rinse out while in the shower. Every hair type, from straight to curly and coloured, can benefit from regularly using a heat protection spray in their hair care routine.

What are the benefits of using heat protection sprays?

Damaged locks are a thing of the past when heat protection sprays are introduced to your haircare routine. These nifty sprays protect your hair against frizz, breakage, split ends, and even colour changing for those with bleached hair, which can all be caused by heat damage when hair is not well protected, allowing you to achieve any hairstyle you desire without the downsides of using heat on hair.

As if that wasn't enough to make them a hero product, heat protection sprays can also add shine, volume, UV protection to your hair, along with helping to remove tangles, depending on the formula that you opt for. It's an all-round winner.

What do heat protectants do and how do they work?

Think of heat protectants as a barrier between your heat styling tool and hair. They work by forming a protective layer on top of the hair shaft so that your strands are less likely to be frazzled by extreme heat. Some wrap hair with an invisible film, which is great for protection, but it can also weigh down particular hair types, such as curly.

Do heat protectants really work?

If you’re becoming a little sceptical after reading the long list of what heat protectants are capable of and the wonders they can do, then we understand. But, yes heat protectants do in fact really work. Studies have shown that there are some standout ingredients that can be found in heat protectant sprays that result in less damage. In creating a thin film or coat on the hair strand, heat is conducted more evenly and slowly. These ingredients are PVP/DMAPA acrylates copolymer, quaternium 70, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and silicones so be sure to look out for these.

Whilst it is true that these sprays won’t protect your hair completely, at best they’ll provide 50% heat protection, it’s still better than no protection. Coupled with moderate use of heated hair tools and a strong hair care routine, your strands will be in far better shape with heat protection sprays than without.

When do I need to use heat protection on my hair?

This depends on the type of heat protection you choose to use, so remember to check out the instructions for your specific product.

Typically, heat protection formulas are used before styling your hair with hot appliances such as blow dryers, curling irons and straighteners. You can apply heat protection to damp or dry hair and comb through for an even distribution. They can be used on a daily basis (as long as you frequently shampoo your hair), and really are a game-changing addition to any hair care routine.

Can I use heat protection on afro hair types?

Absolutely! In fact, curly and afro hair types are most likely to benefit from using heat protection formulas. This is because the tight curls make it harder for oils and moisture to travel all the way down the hair shaft, meaning locks are much more prone to damage such as dryness, split ends and breakage. Chemically treated or relaxed hair is also much more vulnerable to experiencing damage. So, remember to use hair treatments to condition your hair and always give your hair a spritz of protection before picking up the heat tools.

Are there any drawbacks to using hair heat protectants?

While heat protectant sprays are essential for shielding your hair from damage, they can occasionally have a few side effects. One common concern is a sticky or tacky residue, which sometimes happens if too much product is applied. To avoid this, a light, even mist is best. Some sprays may also leave a build-up if not properly washed out, so it's a good idea to clarify your hair occasionally. But with the right application and regular washing routine, you'll get all the protection without the fuss.

How to use heat protectant sprays

Using a heat protectant spray is super simple and makes all the difference in keeping your hair healthy and gorgeous.

Start by spritzing it evenly onto damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends which is where heat damage and split ends tend to strike the hardest. Comb through to make sure every strand gets coated. Once that’s done, you’re ready to blow-dry, curl, or glide that ceramic flat iron through your locks. If you’re using it on dry hair, just apply a light mist before styling.

How can I choose the right heat protectant for me?

Choosing the right heat protectant depends on your hair type, styling habits, and personal preferences. If your locks are prone to dryness, look for a formula enriched with hydrating ingredients like argan oil or glycerin. These ingredients will ensure that your hair isn't left feeling parched or frizzy after a session of using hot styling tools, so your hair is protected and has a smooth, hydrated finish. For fine hair or oily-prone hair, opt for lightweight sprays that won't weigh down your strands or leave it looking greasy, and avoid any sprays that contain ingredients like thick, and potentially overly nourishing ingredients like oils.

If you're a fan of high-heat tools, a protectant with a threshold of 230°C or higher is a must. It's important to take into account your styling goals - if you want a frizz-free sleek look or a bouncy blowout with voluminous curls, there's a heat protectant out there to help you achieve it.

The best heat protection sprays:

Taking in a mix of brands you already know and love, as well as up-and-comers, we’ve collated ten of the very best heat protection sprays for different hair types. So, when it comes to applying the torture tools to your hair, you can turn up the heat without worrying about completely frazzling your tresses - no one wants to be that girl who tongs her hair off, after all.

You’re now prepped and primed with all you need to know and some expert recommendations on the best heat protectant so you can get styling without inflicting any damage to your precious locks. Only good hair days are ahead.