Curly Q: My hair is naturally curly, but I really like to wear it straight from time to time. How can I prevent heat styling from damaging my curls?*__
I'll admit, even though I was born with a head full of curly hair, I have my days (sometimes even months) where I'd just rather wear it straight. Most non-curlies don't get it, but the truth is sometimes I just want a change. You know, like a non-permanent change that requires a little less primping and maintenance in the morning.
And hey, just like straight-haired chicas like to pull out the curling iron every here and there, we like to occasionally blow-out or flat-iron our tresses. But I must warn you ladies, if not done correctly, with time you can wind up with some serious heat damage that can totally ruin your curl pattern. Believe me, I've been there!
Readmore ¿Qué más? Curly Qs: How can I keep my color-treated curls healthy?
Then all of a sudden you're wishing you would have just worn your natural ringlets like ALL the time. Don't stress though! There are definitely ways to heat style your hair and still keep your curls nice and healthy. Check out a few of my tips below to help you stop the heat styling abuse once and for all!
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Use a heat protective product
Before using any kind of hot tools, whether it’s the blow-dryer, flat iron, or curling iron, make sure to apply a heat protective product on your hair. This is SO crucial! Try Moroccanoil Heat Styling Protection Spray ($28). I love it because it leaves my hair super smooth and shiny too!
Use a hair mask
Apply a deeply moisturizing hair conditioning mask to your strands at least once a week to help restore hair from any possible heat-damage. I like Living Proof Restore Mask Treatment ($42).
Try a hot oil treatment
Heating tools tend to leave hair dry and dull over time. An intense hot oil treatment can deliver moisture and shine in just seconds. I like Josie Maran Argan Oil Self Heating Hair Treatment ($36). The oil warms itself up to the ideal temperature for your hair.
Take a break
If you find yourself heat-styling for weeks at a time, you might want to give your hair a little heat-styling break and consider air-drying for a while. Use a leave-in conditioner to keep curls smooth and hydrated. Try L'Oréal Paris EverCurl HydraCharge Leave-In Cream ($9).
Experiment with hairstyles
Curls just not cooperating? Try pulling them up into a loose, sophisticated updo like the one Camila Alves is sporting here. After all, no one has to know you’re having a bad hair day!
