Recognising the signs of heat damaged hair and how to prevent it

Whether you have a big wedding or a small one, you want to look your best. This means chemical hair treatments and the use of style tools to ensure our hair is at the top of its game. However, extensive styling has its drawbacks. Frequent exposure to heat can lead to damaged hair, manifesting itself in several undesirable ways. 

If you are heat styling your hair frequently or getting chemical hair treatments like hair colouring, straightening or perming, then there are chances your hair is damaged. While thermal hair styling is a great way to achieve the look you want, it is not exactly hair-friendly. The high temperatures break down the cuticle of the hair shaft and dry out the moisture. It also changes the structure of hair proteins making the hair weak and susceptible to breakage. 

Recognising the signs of heat-damaged hair

Dryness and lack of moisture

Heat can rob hair of its natural moisture, causing it to feel dry and brittle. This is one of the most common signs of heat-damaged hair. Take extra care to condition your hair using a hair mask or getting hair spa treatments done which only condition without using any chemicals or using a conditioner regularly for dry damaged hair. It is advisable to use SLS sulfate-free, paraben-free shampoos which are more gentle on your hair.  

Split ends and breakage 

Excessive heat can weaken hair shafts and lead to split ends and breakage. If you notice increased hair fall, that is also a common sign of heat damage. 

Loss of hair elasticity 

Typically, healthy hair is elastic and resistant to breakage. However, heat-damaged hair loses its elasticity and becomes brittle and prone to snapping off when stretched. This also leads to excessive breakage. 

Dull and frizzy appearance

One of the first signs of heat damage is a lack of shine or lustre. If your locks are suddenly looking frizzier than usual, if they are unruly and refusing to hold on to styles, you need to step away from the straightener and give your tresses some TLC. 

Altered hair texture

Have your curls loosened or disappeared? Does your hair feel rough? Heat damage can alter the texture of your hair. If you feel like this is happening, stop using all thermal styling tools and use some serums and conditioning products to try and repair the damage. 

Preventing heat damage 

When it comes to heat damage, prevention is the best cure. You can use a heat protectant before styling your hair. This forms a protective layer over your hair shaft, thus limiting damage. You should also adopt a healthy hair care routine that includes conditioning your hair every once in a while. And another way to prevent heat damage is by trimming your hair regularly and adopting a healthy diet. 

Recognising the signs of heat damage is crucial to prevent further harm and start the recovery process. By adopting a mindful hair care routine and taking preventative measures, one can maintain the health and vitality of their hair. Rinsing your hair with cool water will help seal the hair cuticle after a shower. Use gentle and nourishing hair products. Before using hot styling tools, spray a surface protectant on your hair to protect it from damage.

Using a weekly hair mask can also help keep your hair moisturised and healthy. Investing in superior quality styling tools which have good heat control technology is of prime importance.

 Let us nurture and shield our precious locks, for they are a testament to our unique expression. 

Inputs from: Dr Batul Patel, Leading Celebrity Dermatologist, Founder & Medical Director - The Bombay Skin Clinic, Dr Nishita Ranka Internationally acclaimed dermatologist, Medical Director & Founder of Dr Nishita'a Clinic for Skin, Hair & Aesthetics, Dr Neha Gupta, Dermatologist & Cosmetologist at Dr Karishma's Aesthetics and Dr. Ajay Rana, An Internationally renowned Dermatologist, Surgeon & Aesthetic physician, also the Founder and Director of ILAMED & Dermalyn Aesthetics