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.

What is a heat protection spray for hair?

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.

How do heat protectants for hair 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.

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 of 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 are 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.


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.

So there you have it, the 10 heat protection sprays selected by our stellar beauty experts. There’s really no reason for your hair to go through any more suffering. Take good care of it and it’ll always look strong, healthy and radiant.

If you’re searching for more ways to replenish and protect your hair, then check out our range of hair supplements or take a look at Permanent, Semi or Temporary: What Type of Hair Dye Is Best For You?