Know Your Products: Heat Protectors

We encourage our clients to adopt a healthy hair routine which usually includes the right shampoos and conditioners for their hair type, moisture masks, serums and the holy grail of damage preventatives, a decent heat protector. But how exactly do heat protectors work? Our clients trust that we know what we're talking about when it comes to hair care, so it's our responsibility to know how these products work so we can use them properly and feel confident selling them to clients.

How do heat protectors work?

Heat protectors are made to slow down heat conduction by coating the hair shaft in a mixture of silicones, polymers, humectants and proteins. This cocktail of ingredients creates a light barrier against high temperatures, ultimately protecting the inner hair structure. 

Most heat protectors aim to retain moisture and strengthen hair, counteracting the dryness caused by moisture-sapping heat from straighteners, curling wands and hair dryers. 

Are there protectors for different hair types?

Heat protectors come in various forms to suit different hair types. For example, cream-based solutions are for those with thicker, coarser heads of hair whereas sprays are used on finer hair to prevent build-up which could weigh it down. 

There are also variations that can be applied to wet or dry hair. Wet hair will absorb the protector and help lock in moisture, whereas some protectors are best applied to dry hair and can add shine and prevent frizz on a finished style.

It's also important to note that these heat protectors can also help to prevent hair colour fading. Applying heat to coloured hair will weaken the colour molecules in the hair cuticle which dulls colour and makes hair lacklustre. Using a heat protecting product will help retain hair vibrancy and shine.

Are heat protectors completely heat proof?

No. Even though heat protectors can reduce damage caused by heat, they will not protect hair completely which is why it's important to advise clients against overuse of heated stylers. It's useful to liken heat protectors to suncream, in that they will help to prevent damage if the skin or hair isn't over-exposed.

Which protectors do we recommend?

Osmo Thermal Defense

This deeply nourishing spray helps reduce damage from heat up to 220 degrees. It is also made to protect from UV exposure and leaves hair shiny and silky smooth.

Proclere Professional Infatreat Thermal Protector

One of the UK's leading thermal protectors, this spray is designed so that 'the hotter it gets, the more it protects.'

Wella EIMI Thermal Image Heat Protector

Applied onto dry hair, this protection spray offers protection from heated stylers whilst providing a level of hold to help the finished style last.

Many hair products are made with in-built thermal protectors to maintain healthy hair, however, it's important to note that products can only do so much to prevent damage, which is why you must provide regular hair care advice to your clients, recommending regular haircuts and treatments to keep hair healthy. There are also a wide range of bond-building products available on our website which help rebuild cuticle structure, creating shiny, stronger hair.