Every time you use a heated styling tool, you’re risking damage to your hair health and color. This can lead to frizziness, split ends, and even hair loss! What you need are the best heat protectant sprays to shield your hair and hair strands from these damaging effects.
Hair damage can be caused by a lot of things. The sun, pollution, and styling tools are all culprits in the destruction of your locks.
If you have color-treated hair, you must protect it against fading and dryness at all costs to avoid the frizz-fantastic effect.
But how do you know which one is right for your hair type? Do they work differently if you have thick or fine hair? How much should you use them, and when??
We’re here to answer all these questions and more. Let’s go!
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Table of Contents
- TOP PICK!
- Bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist
- What is a hair heat protectant spray?
- How to use a heat protection spray.
- Which is the best heat protectant spray?
- Best hair heat protection sprays at a glance.
- #1. John Frieda Detox & Repair Care Heat Protection Spray
- #2. Coc10nut Heat Protection Spray – Leave-in Hair Protect Treatment for Dry Hair
- #3. Label.m Heat Protection Blow Out Spray
- #4. Kerastase L’Incroyable Thermoprotective Lotion
- #5. Argan Oil Thermal Shield.
- #6.Bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist
- #7. Cantu Thermal Shield Heat Protectant with Shea Butter
- TOP PICK!
- Bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist
- How to pick the right hair heat protectant for you.
- Heat protectant sprays FAQs
- Should I spray heat protectant on wet or dry hair?
- Do hair heat protectant sprays really work?
- How do I choose a heat protectant for my hair?
- Can you still get heat damage with heat protectant?
- Do you let heat protectant dry before straightening your hair?
- Is coconut oil a good natural hair heat protectant?
- Parting words
TOP PICK!
Bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist
Best for: Thick hair and long-lasting
As long time fans of Bumble & Bumble, we were keen to give this a try. We were pleasantly surprised by how light the mist was and how well it worked to keep our hair feeling moisturized all day long.
The best part, though, was the amazing smell – it makes your hair smell like a tropical paradise! It worked great on thick, coarse hair and tamed frizzy hair too. This is the best for us.
Pros
- Lightweight and non-greasy
- Makes hair glossy
- Lasts a long time
- Soaks in well and keeps hair feeling soft
- A little goes a long way
- Smells great
- Works on all types of hair, including thick hair and frizzy hair
Cons
- Might be too heavy for thin or fine hair.
What is a hair heat protectant spray?
Hair heat protectors are products that coat your hair with a protective layer to stop heat from damaging your hair. You apply them before using hot tools.
We all know heat from styling tools can damage your hair. Hairdryers, tongs, straighteners, curlers and wavers all use high heat temperatures to set your hairstyle.
They make you look and feel fabulous but they’re damaging your hair condition and texture with every use.
Every heat styling will make your hair dry out and become brittle and prone to snapping and breaking.
Worst of all, heat damages your color.
It causes it to fade and pulls the color molecules from your hair which can wash out your hair dye color. So what can you do to protect your hair and your colour to keep it looking fabulous?
This is where heat protecting hair sprays come in!
The best ones will give your hair texture, shine, volume and protection without weighing down your locks or leaving behind any residue.
They’re perfect for protecting hair from flat irons, curling irons and wands and blow dryers so that your colour lasts longer while keeping your style intact.
How to use a heat protection spray.
Do
- Apply to wet or dry hair and leave it to soak in before styling.
- Spray the mist it as evenly as possible to cover all of your hair.
- Pay particular attention to the ends which will be older and more damaged.
- Use as per the instructions on the bottle.
Don’t
- Don’t use straighteners or any tools other than hair dryers or hot air brushes on wet hair.
- If you apply to dry hair, let it soak in and dry completely before styling.
- Don’t overdo it. You can leave a sticky residue.
- Don’t forget your roots. Your hot tools may not touch them but the sun will and the best heat protecting sprays will contain UV protection too.
Which is the best heat protectant spray?
We’ve tested the most popular hair heat protectants on the market to bring you only the best!
Some contain ingredients that also condition your hair while leaving it protected.
Some can feel heavy or leave a sticky residue on your hair. So you’ll need find the formula that works best for your hair type and hair texture.
Best hair heat protection sprays at a glance.
#1. John Frieda Detox & Repair Care Heat Protection Spray
Features & ingredients:
- Transforms stressed hair into smooth, shiny hair.
- Immediately revitalises and restores hair that needs repairing.
- Protects hair against split ends and breakage by fortifying and nourishing from the roots down.
- With antioxidant green tea and nourishing Avocado oil.
Reviewers say:
“Pretty special, well priced and worked really well. Smells lovely and well packaged.”
“I’m a big fan of John Frieda brand and thankfully this conditions my dry hair to leave it lovely and soft.”
“My hair is certainly falling out less after using this. I wash and blow dry my hair every day and this works really well for daily use. Makes it silky and soft and glossy.”
Our experience:
This left our hair silky smooth after blow-drying. Use it sparingly though as too much can weigh your hair down. It does brush out easily though.
It’s one of the best on our list for its pleasant smell and it sinks in well to leave your hair feeling supple.
Best for: Frizzy hair.
#2. Coc10nut Heat Protection Spray – Leave-in Hair Protect Treatment for Dry Hair
Features & ingredients:
- Hydrates hair to help prevent split ends and frizz caused by styling and humidity.
- Defends hair against damage caused by heated tools – blow drying, curling and straightening .
- Makes your hair stronger and healthier.
- Smoothes hair, adds body, volume and adds shine.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
Reviewers say:
“Love love love this product. I have crazy curly hair and receive a weekly professional blow-dry to try to tame and straighten my hair. This product definitely helped the process and maintained my sleekness until my next blow-dry. I was also really impressed with the detangle element.”
“I had comments in the office on the coconut smell with this! It is very strong but the spray is lovely and made my hair look as well as smell really nice.”
“This is almost a hair relaxant on my hair! I have unruly curls and this helps me keep them straight when I blow dry. It’s so moisturising without weighing them down. So there still a bit of bounce! Love it.”
Our experience:
This was recommended to us by our Expert in The Expert Opinion on colored hair care and we must admit it was loved by our dry barnet. Smelt great too and really helped to tame our hair and reduce frizz. Great for curlier hair.
Best for: Curly hair.
#3. Label.m Heat Protection Blow Out Spray
Features & ingredients:
- ‘The latest innovation in heat protectant technology.’
- A professionally formulated, pre-styling spray that provides expert protection so you can style dry hair with confidence.
- Fortified with vitamins and keratin minerals.
Reviewers say:
“This makes my hair smell great. It’s lightweight and easy to use. I’ve tried oil sprays up until now but wish I’d found this earlier!”
“This is excellent to use prior to heat! I prefer to use it on damp hair but I also give my dry hair a spritz before bed to moisturize hair a little. It’s a relaxing smell! I have been using it for a while and definitely think it’s helping to keep my hair colour fresh too.”
Our experience:
This is forever a permanent fixture on our dressing tables as it smells amazing, protects hair from heat, UV rays AND fortifies it with the magic colored hair protein potion – keratin. A heat protector and a spa experience in one. Sorted.
Best for: Damaged hair.
#4. Kerastase L’Incroyable Thermoprotective Lotion
Features & ingredients:
- A spray that redefines heat-styling with a miracle reshape heat lotion. (Quite a claim!)
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Enriched with SRS technology, amino acids and heat-activated Micro-Beeswax, hair can be easily restyled while also being protected.
- Prevents split ends and breakage while adding shine and moisture to dull hair.
Reviewers say:
“FABULOUS. It made my hair so much easier to dry. And have me a smooth finish and lots of volume. I tied my hair up in a top knot all day and just gave it a quick blast with a blow dryer at home. It looked almost exactly as it had after styling.”
“My hairdresser used this on me so decided to get some for myself and was so so pleased to get the same great results! Lots of body and adds shine.”
Our experience:
We love everything Kerastase here at Coloured Hair Care so we had to give this a go. This quick drying thermal spray is not the strongest contender on the list but still one of the best for frizz taming and protection.
We’re not sure what ‘miracle reshape heat lotion’ is all about but the overall feel is one of richness and that you’re doing something good for your colored hair. Was good on the shiny front too.
Best for: Super shine for thin hair.
#5. Argan Oil Thermal Shield.
Features & ingredients:
- Contains silicones that form a protective barrier over the cuticle of the hair strand
- Protects hair from the heat of your hair tools.
- Heat protectant that adds moisture to your hair to reduce moisture loss when styling.
Reviewers say:
“Great product. Smells good and goes on really nicely. I have very fine hair so not having a product that is heavy on my hair is important.”
“Leaves your hair nice and soft. Great as a leave-in conditioner too.”
“Brilliant for hair care.”
Our experience:
We weren’t sure putting oil in your hair before putting heat on it was such a good idea but a good idea it is.
Let it soak in a little before styling so that it really nourishes the tips of your hair. Smells great but too much could make your hair greasy. NOT for those with oily hair. Best for those with really dry locks and parched hair.
Best for: Dry hair
#6.Bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist
Features & ingredients:
- The formula in the mist protects dried hair against heat tools (up to 450 degrees), helping to prevent and repair damage.
- Fortifies the hair fibres to reinforce the internal structure and defend against breakage.
- Plus, the honey protective complex conditions and tames frizz to restore a healthy glow whilst imparting a delicious scent.
Reviewers say:
“I found this really lightweight and non-greasy. I have fine hair and was worried it would be too heavy but it was great and made my hair glossy too!”
“I tried a few other brands but they just didn’t last very long. This spray really soaks in well and keeps my hair feeling soft.”
“A little goes a long way with this stuff, so don’t go overboard when applying it.”
Our experience:
As long time fans of Bumble & Bumble, we were keen to give this a try. We were pleasantly surprised by how light the mist was and how well it worked to keep our hair feeling moisturized all day long.
The best part, though, was the amazing smell – it makes your hair smell like a tropical paradise! It worked great on thick hair and tamed frizz too. This is the best for us.
Best for: Thick hair and long-lasting
#7. Cantu Thermal Shield Heat Protectant with Shea Butter
Features & ingredients:
- This heat protectant is formulated to guard against damage caused by styling tools.
- It’s enriched with shea butter and avocado oil to help lock in moisture while providing superior thermal protection up to 450°F.
- It also helps reduce breakage and strengthens hair.
Reviewers say:
“This is a great heat protectant for my coily hair! I used it when blow-drying, curling, or flat ironing and it helps keep my hair healthy and protected from the heat.”
“I love that it has shea butter in it – not only does it add shine but also makes styling easier.”
Our experience:
Cantu Thermal Shield Heat Protectant with Shea Butter is a must-have for anyone who loves to style their hair.
Its lightweight formula adds shine and locks in moisture, while providing superior heat protection up to 450°F!
It’s also enriched with shea butter and avocado oil to help reduce breakage and strengthen and shield hair. This lightweight spray is perfect for thin hair.
Best for: Fine hair and thin hair.
TOP PICK!
Bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist
Best for: Thick hair and long-lasting
As long time fans of Bumble & Bumble, we were keen to give this a try. We were pleasantly surprised by how light the mist was and how well it worked to keep our hair feeling moisturized all day long.
The best part, though, was the amazing smell – it makes your hair smell like a tropical paradise! It worked great on thick, coarse hair and tamed frizz too. This is the best for us.
How to pick the right hair heat protectant for you.
Choosing the right heat protectant goes beyond just grabbing the first one on the shelf. Here’s our guide on how to pick the right one for you.
#1 Analyze Your Hair Type & Texture
The first step to choosing the right heat protectant is knowing your hair type and texture.
Fine, straight hair requires a different heat protectant than thick, curly hair.
If your hair is already prone to frizz and dryness, choose heat protectants that include natural oils such as argan oil or shea butter.
On the other hand, if you have oily hair, avoid heat protectants with too much oil in them.
Choose a product that is lightweight and won’t weigh your hair down. Always read the product labels to ensure that it is suitable for your hair type.
#2 Consider Your Lifestyle
Your lifestyle plays a big role in the type of heat protectant you should choose.
If you’re constantly on the go and rely on quick hair styling, consider using heat protectants that also act as a leave-in conditioner.
This will save you time and reduce the number of products you need in your busy schedule.
If you’re always outdoors, you can choose a heat protectant with sun protection to avoid UV damage.
If you frequently color or bleach your hair, use a heat protectant that has a formula specifically designed for color-treated hair. You get the idea!
#3 Research the Ingredients
Always read the labels and research the ingredients list of the heat protectant you want to buy.
Look for key elements such as proteins, keratin, and amino acids that help strengthen the hair and protect it from heat damage.
Beware of products that contain alcohol or sulfates as they can dry out your hair and cause damage. Choose products with vitamins like Vitamin E and C that nourish your hair and promote healthy, shiny locks.
#4 Think About Your Hair Styling Tool
Different heat protectants offer different levels of protection.
If you love using flat irons, look for heat protectants that can handle temperatures of at least 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you’re a fan of curling wands, ensure that the heat protectant is sticky enough to hold your curls in place after you’ve styled them.
#5 Don’t Skimp on the Price
While a high price tag does not always mean high quality, heat protectants are an exception.
High-quality heat protectants often come with a bigger price tag but are worth your investment to protect your hair from heat styling damage.
Cheap heat protectants may contain a large amount of alcohol or sulfates, leading to dry, heat-damaged hair.
Heat protectant sprays FAQs
Should I spray heat protectant on wet or dry hair?
Whether you’re using a flat iron or curling iron, it is essential to spray heat protectant on your hair before styling—in fact, it might be the most important step in avoiding heat damage!
Many hair care professionals recommend applying heat protectant on towel dried hair when your hair is still damp – it’s perfect for sealing moisture into individual strands while still allowing enough flexibility during the styling process.
Plus, spraying before your hot tool comes out helps to keep all that damaging heat away from your precious locks so they look and feel healthy all day!
Do hair heat protectant sprays really work?
The answer is a resounding yes!
Heat protectant products work by smoothing down your hair cuticles and creating a barrier between your hair and the heated styling tool.
This barrier protects your hair from the direct heat, which can cause all sorts of damage like split ends and frizz.
By creating a barrier between your hair and the heating element, the spray helps to prevent the moisture in your hair from evaporating.
This can lead to smoother, shinier hair with less frizz.
In addition, heat protectant sprays can help to hold your style in place, making it more resistant to humidity and fly-aways.
How do I choose a heat protectant for my hair?
When it comes to finding the best heat protectants, making sure you find something that suits your individual hair needs is key.
Take into account which kind of style you plan on doing and the type of hair you have – is it thin hair or thick hair? Do you want a product that adds some extra shine, voluminousness, or anti frizz?
You can find specialized products available at drugstores or salons- or even DIY heat protectants made from natural and typical household ingradients like coconut oil and avocado.
Another important factor to consider is how long you plan on having the product in your hair: shorter styles can require lighter lotions while longer styles often need heavier creams.
With so many options out there, choosing the best heat protectants for your hair doesn’t have to be hard- just pick out one that works with both your hair routine and budget, and get styling!
Can you still get heat damage with heat protectant?
In theory, no. But in reality, things are never that simple.
Just like sunscreen doesn’t make you invincible to the sun, heat protectant isn’t a guarantee that your hair won’t be damaged by heat.
However, it can help to reduce the amount of damage caused by heat styling, so it’s definitely worth using if you’re concerned about your hair health.
And remember, even if you do use heat protectant, you should still take breaks from heat styling to give your hair a chance to recover.
Do you let heat protectant dry before straightening your hair?
Like most things in life, there is no clear-cut answer!
It really depends on your individual hair type and the amount of heat you’ll be subjecting it to.
If you have fine or damaged hair, it’s probably best to err on the side of caution and let the heat protectant dry completely before starting to style.
If you have thick or frizzy hair that’s resistant to heat damage, you can probably get away with straightening towel dried hair while the heat protectant is still damp.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to experiment and see what works best for your hair. So go ahead and give it a try – your perfect hairstyle awaits!
Is coconut oil a good natural hair heat protectant?
Coconut oil can definitely help to protect your hair from heat damage.
It’s a natural moisturizer, so it can help to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe your scalp and prevent irritation. And, if you use it before you style your hair, it can act as a barrier between your hair and the heat, helping to prevent damage.
So, if you’re looking for a natural heat protectant, it’s definitely worth a try.
Just be sure to use it sparingly – too much can make your hair greasy. And, as always, test it out on a small section of your hair before using it all over.
That way, you can see how your hair reacts and decide whether it’s right for you.
Parting words
So, what’s the key to protecting your hair from heat? It all comes down to one thing – the best heat protectant sprays.
We’ve reviewed and compiled an ultimate list of our favourite products that will help you avoid over-stressing your locks in order to keep them looking sleek and shiny for longer.
Aside from that, it’s important not to use too much product or apply it excessively close to the scalp as this can cause greasy build-up on the roots.
Do you believe in miracles ́cause we do cos with these pro tips we promise you’ll have less frizz than ever before!
