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We found the best heat protectants from brands like Olaplex, Color Wow, and more.
Courtesy of the brands / Laneen Wells
Shop SELF-staffer- and dermatologist-approved favorites below.
Our top picks
What does heat protectant do?
And dont skip the directions.
Still not getting the results you want?
Watch videosgo on Instagram or YouTube, she recommends.
Get a little education on how to use it properly.
FAQs
Can I use heat protectant on dry hair?
Yep: They can be used on both wet hair and dry hair, says Alvarez.
Some are actually meant for dry hair and are activated by heat.
These usually tend to create hold in the hair as well to make your do last longer.
How do I choose the right heat protectant for my hair pop in?
Heat protectants work in the same way, whether theyre a cream or a spray, says Alvarez.
Sprays tend to be lighter and less hydrating, so Id use them for fine to medium hair.
Creams are heavier and should be used for thicker hair.
Can I use leave-in conditioner as a heat protectant?
Some leave-in conditioners also double as heat protectants, but not all of them.
Check the product label to confirm that it offers heat protection before relying on it during styling.
Plus, the ultra-lightweight formula offers flyaway control without weighing your hair down or leaving it looking greasy.
The Color Wow one legit is the perfect balance.
She also loves that it doesnt have much of a scent.
Alvarez loves that it protects while buffing up thin strands.
A bonus is that it also helps repair broken bonds in the hair.
Its easy to apply without worrying whether Ive used too much.
It goes on silky, which makes detangling super easy, and helps control frizz throughout the day.
It smooths the hair and adds a nice healthy-looking sheen, Alvarez says.
But dont be heavy-handed with this productless is more, she warns.
This is the only line of products that makes my hair smooth and soft.
My hair damages easily when applying heat, and I didnt see any damage after using this.
Its made with rose water that softens the hair and targets frizz.
The formula isnt heavy at all, but delivers hydrated results that dont feel greasy, says Alvarez.
It also offers UV protection, leaving you with sleek hair that shines.
I use it after every shampoo to keep my color-treated hair soft and manageable.
“Its a heat protectant and texture spray that helps hold the curl longer,” she says.
The silicone-free formula helps blowouts last longer while adding tons of texture.
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