About Damage Caused By Straightening Hair

Hair is vulnerable to heat and chemicals. Its health depends on a number of factors. Nutrition, hygiene and sleep all affect the health of our hair. Heat and chemicals may be applied to straighten frizzy hair or smooth split ends. But are you causing more damage than good by doing these things? The answer is yes.Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential damage you may be doing to your hair by straightening it.

Types

• Hair can be straightened at home or at a salon. Salons use chemical treatments to straighten hair on a semi-permanent basis. Hair dryers and straightening irons in salons and at home are used frequently, even daily. Hair can be blown straight using a brush and blow dryer. A quicker method is to use a hair straightener. Chemical treatments tend to be used to straighten curly hair whereas straightening irons and blow dryers are more likely than chemicals to be used on otherwise straight or wavy hair.

Effects

• The application of heat and chemicals can cause the hair to become dry since moisture is taken out of your hair by them. Dry, brittle hair is more likely to break causing split ends. The unfortunate result can be damaged or even burnt hair. The likelihood for these negative effects to occur is greater for permed, bleached or other chemically processed hair since this places an added stress on it.

Considerations

• When choosing a hair dryer or straightener, look for those that use ionic technology. These devices smooth and flatten hair with minimal static. Also, straightening irons should be flat in order for the heat to be distributed evenly. Ceramic straighteners are preferable since they have a non-stick heating surface.

Prevention/Solution

• Straightening irons and blow dryers should be used properly and sparingly. Before using a straightening iron, make sure your hair is dry, well conditioned and coated with a heat-protective styling product. This can be a leave-in conditioner, cream or spray. The iron should not be excessively hot. Apply the heat to small sections of hair, one at a time. Move the iron slowly down to the end of your hair and gently release it from the iron. It you are dissatisfied with the outcome of a section, you may go through the entire process again for that section, but at no time should the iron stop on any section of your hair.

Warning

• Damage to the cuticle is irreversible. The same applies for hair that is burnt. Conditioners, moisturizers and masks are preventative measures. Split ends cannot be un-split. Therefore, maintaining healthy hair can make it less prone to possible damage caused by heat or chemicals.