For many of us, hair irons are like coffee, we can’t start the day without it. New research says that damage caused by hair irons can actually make hair frizzier and curlier resulting in a straightening cycle that can eventually cause hair to appear thin and dull.
Although hair is very strong, high heat, like that from a flat iron, will damage the cuticle of the hair, or the hard outer protective coating on each strand. Repeated straightening can cause the cuticle to breakdown altogether. This starts as split ends but can eventually reach all the way up the hair, resulting in the strand breaking off. More and more women are reporting signs of hair loss but, the truth is, their hair is just breaking off due to their flat iron addiction.
We know what you’re thinking, “But I use heat protecting products on my hair!” According to experts, although heat defense products do partially reduce the damage, your hair is still affected if you iron your hair every day.
So what should you do if your hair has been damaged? First of all, lay off the iron for a little while. Treat frizz with a trim instead of reaching for the iron. Sleeping on silk pillowcases can help prevent frizz and split ends by locking in hair’s natural oils. Try using boar bristle brushes that don’t contain metal prongs and use lots of conditioner!
Do any of you have straightening tips? What do you do when you’re taking a break from your flat iron?
