I’ve been natural for eight years and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life! Throughout the years, I’ve learned a lot of best practices for natural hair care, including heat styling! Here are 3 essential tips for safely heat styling natural hair.
1. Start with freshly washed hair!
First of all, when heat styling I suggest starting on freshly washed hair. This is so important because product build-up, pollution, sweat, and other debris still on the scalp and hair when applying heat WILL lead to damage. Be mindful of the amount of oils you apply to your hair prior to heat. Too much oil will seep through your heat style and your hair will revert back faster. It’s best to start with a fresh reset.
2. Use quality heat styling products.
I strongly suggest using products or systems that are specifically made for heat styling. I know this may seem like a no-brainer…but there are people who aren’t fully aware of the special ingredients in these products designed to prep the hair for heat and manipulation. I personally LOVE the Maximum Thermal Protection Collection from Uncle Funky’s Daughter because of the slip, shine, and moisture retention I receive every time I use this line.
Plus, the collection isn’t only for heat styling, it can be used regularly in your wash day routine as well. I appreciate this because I wear my hair naturally curly more often than not and can still reap the benefits of the amazing ingredients.
For example, the main objective of the deep conditioner is to strengthen the hair, provide a layer of thermal protection, revitalize the hair, replenish moisture, and reduce breakage. Ingredients such as quinoa, bamboo, and silk included in the products provide nutrients that support those objectives, ensuring that your hair stays in great health.
3. Always check the temperature threshold!
Look out for the temperature threshold of the products you use. In order to have proper protection, the threshold should be 450 degrees. I advise not to go higher than 400 degrees but having that extra layer of protection is always better than not having it.
Keeping your scalp moisturized and healthy is very important when rocking a heat style. I highly recommend using a serum or gloss to prevent your scalp from drying out. Glossy from Uncle Funky’s Daughter is a great, hydrating, finishing hair polish to help prevent dry scalp and dry strands. It’s also lightweight so your hair won’t get weighed down!
Natural hair is so fun and versatile, take the time to protect and love your beautiful tresses!
xoxo
Jeanette (@ravishing_tresses)
