Most of us strive to look our best and capitalize on the opportunities that come with improving our appearance. For example, being confident in the way you look can have a substantial impact on your mental health. One of the most important attributes to focus on is the quality of your hair.
The way you care for your hair says a lot about your personality, which is why repairing your hair if it's damaged is so important. Heat-damaged hair is a common issue people deal with, and not everyone understands how to find the best shampoo for heat-damaged hair.
The good news is there are plenty of premier shampoo options on the market you can leverage. Let's explore some of the most notable damaged hair solutions.
Signs of Heat Damage
Dryness and dullness are some of the most notable signs your hair has heat damage. You can recognize this scenario by assessing your hair's natural sheen.
If it doesn't seem to be as shiny as normal, there's a chance you've damaged it. Split ends and breakage are other symptoms to stay wary of. In severe cases, you could experience hair loss if you have substantial heat damage.
The good news is that this hair loss is temporary. Once you resolve the issue, you shouldn't have any further complications. Hair that's been heat-damaged can't properly retain color.
If you dye your hair regularly, you might find that damaged segments have a different appearance. Women with curly hair could also discover their strands don't have as much bounce as they used to.
Keep an eye out for these signs, as they'll require you to change your behavior. Otherwise, you risk damaging your hair further. The worse your hair's condition, the harder it'll be for you to get things back to normal.
Ingredients to Consider
There are many types of shampoo marketed for treating heat damage. However, they aren't all created equal. There are certain ingredients you'll need to look for when making your decision.
Listed below are some of the most notable.
Argan Oil
This ingredient is derived from the kernels of the argan tree, a plant native to Morocco. It's renowned for being rich in fatty acids and vitamin E. These can help nourish hair that's been damaged by heat styling.
Those with frizzy hair will also be pleased to learn that argan oil is known for keeping locks smooth and lustrous. The antioxidants it contains also help protect your hair from UV damage and heat.
This goes a long way toward preserving its elasticity and strength. As if that weren't good enough already, this oil can prevent scalp irritation and dryness.
Coconut Oil
Out of all the ingredients you should consider, this is one of the most important. It has a unique fatty acid profile that penetrates hair follicles more effectively than other types of oil.
The result is a deep level of conditioning that's amazing for brittle or dry hair. Damaged hair typically has a shortage of protein. Regular coconut oil use can eliminate this issue and keep your hair looking healthier.
Shea Butter
Extracted from shea tree nuts, shea butter contains essential fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin E. It's especially effective for people who have coarse or curly hair.
These textures are prone to dryness, which shea butter can help remedy. Its anti-inflammatory properties promote overall hair health and can manage scalp conditions.
Aloe Vera
This is one of the most important ingredients to look for in shampoo. It has no shortage of minerals, amino acids, or vitamins. Aloe vera has enzymatic properties that help remove dead skin cells from your scalp.
This cleansing effect allows your scalp to absorb nutrients more easily. Many people enjoy how easily aloe vera moisturizes hair without weighing it down.
In some individuals, it can stimulate blood circulation to the scalp. This can reduce hair loss and encourage new hair growth.
Honey
Like the other ingredients on this list, honey has a powerful combination of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It easily locks in moisture and prevents hair from becoming brittle or dry.
Many people overlook its antiseptic and antibacterial qualities. People who suffer from dandruff or scalp infections should look for products with honey to manage these conditions. Shampoos with this ingredient also help your hair feel softer, look shinier, and become more manageable.
Benefits of the Quality Products
You should never skimp on quality when selecting shampoo for heat-damaged hair. Having peace of mind is the primary benefit that you'll experience.
When you choose a product with science-backed formulas, you won't have to worry about adverse side effects. Some shampoos can also stimulate hair growth. If you've experienced hair loss due to heat damage, this is a great attribute to consider.
Quality shampoos contain only natural ingredients. The absence of harsh chemicals will prevent further damage from occurring. This allows the product to nourish and strengthen your hair.
Keep this in mind when making your decision. The last thing you want is to have to buy a second shampoo to make up for a poor-quality product.
Preventing Heat Damage
While heat damage can cause numerous complications, the good news is that it's fairly easy to prevent. Simple adjustments go a long way toward preserving your hair's integrity. Let's look closer at the key methods you can use.
Use Less Heat
While this might seem obvious, many people overlook this tip. As you might assume, using less heat will drastically reduce the occurrence of heat damage.
It's recommended to stay within the 200° to 300° range. If you have particularly thin or fine hair, stay closer to 200°. Avoid using the highest heat setting under all circumstances.
Regardless of your hair texture, this will only lead to damage. You should also consider minimizing the number of days per week you use heat to style your hair.
Reserving this process for special occasions is a great strategy to use. If you can't stay away from the flat iron or curling iron, take extra steps to prevent heat damage from accumulating.
The "One and Done" Principle
For those unfamiliar, this refers to passing over a segment of your hair only one time when using a heating tool. Some users make multiple passes in an attempt to get better results. While this could help you achieve the desired appearance, it's an awful decision in the long run.
If certain parts of your hair require multiple passes, you can slightly increase the heat and do only one pass. Do your best to find the lowest possible temperature that can help you meet your needs. However, you should still consider the advice above and keep your temperature range between 200° and 300°.
Use Protective Hair Serum
You can mitigate the damage heating tools cause by using a protective hair serum beforehand. Depending on the product you choose, your hair could stay protected up to 400°.
Some hair serums even have additional benefits, such as ingredients that prevent frizziness. Always read reviews thoroughly before making your choice. This will help you quickly narrow down your potential options.
Consider Weekly Hair Masks
Hair masks can provide your follicles with much-needed nutrients. This makes them a great option for people who regularly use heat to style their hair. An added benefit of hair masks is reducing the formation of tangles.
Your hair should feel and look smoother as soon as you get out of the shower. You can even use a conditioning mask on wet/damp hair instead of your daily conditioner.
Use Specialized Appliances
One of the worst things you can do for your hair's integrity is to use generic heating appliances. For example, the average blow dryer has only two or three settings, and the temperatures will vary substantially across different products. Heat might also be dispersed unevenly across low-quality curling irons and flat irons.
Instead, you should use specialized appliances that provide greater control over the product's heat. This could come from different settings or detailed info about the heat ranges.
Keep in mind that low-quality products that measure the heat might not always be accurate. It's better to spend more than to regret your decision later.
What Is the Best Shampoo for Heat-Damaged Hair?
The answer to this question will depend on many factors. Your hair texture, the extent of the damage, and your budget all play a role. If you need to save as much money as possible, consider looking for off-brand shampoo options that have the ingredients you require.
If you need fast results, search for products that advertise this attribute. With enough due diligence, you'll find the ideal solution for your situation.
Take Action ASAP
If you have heat-damaged hair, it's imperative to take action as soon as possible. This will help ensure you get back to looking your best and minimize complications you would have otherwise encountered.
VOLOOM prides itself on offering the world's first volumizing hair iron. Our product's patented bevel platforms allow users to achieve double or even triple their typical hair volume. You'll learn more about the benefits we can provide when you get in touch with us today.
