Let’s be honest, most of us love stepping out with hair that’s full of life and looks amazing. But achieving this often means using heat styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners, which can damage our hair. If you’re familiar with these tools, you probably use some kind of spray to protect your hair from the heat.
While using protectant sprays is a smart move, there’s an even better natural option that doesn’t come with harsh chemicals. Most store-bought sprays—along with shampoos, conditioners, and other beauty products—contain toxic chemicals that you can inhale or absorb through your skin. Here are a few common ingredients you might want to avoid:
1. Acrylates – These, also called copolymers, form a film over hair to reduce static and are used in nail polish and hair styling products for hold. Unfortunately, they’re also flagged as potential carcinogens.
2. Quaternium-70 – Known as “quats,” these positively-charged particles cling to hair for protection but could be harmful to health. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) notes that quaternium-70 may act as an immunotoxin and is associated with development and reproductive problems.
3. Dimethicone – A silicone used in many cosmetics, including heat sprays, provides shine and protects hair color. However, it’s listed as harmful by Environment Canada and is suggested to be restricted in beauty products by the EWG.
4. Hydroxypropyl Polysiloxane (Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein) – Wheat protein peptides are also used in hair products. Even if rare, gluten reactions can occur from these. Heavy metals like arsenic have been found in hydrolyzed wheat protein, and it’s advised to keep this substance away from your nose, mouth, and broken skin, which can be challenging if you’re spraying it near your head.
You don’t have to stop using your favorite hot tools, though. Natural oils and essential oils can help reduce static, nourish your hair, and provide a light layer of heat protection. Here’s why our homemade heat protectant works so well:
The recipe is based on coconut oil because it can withstand high heat. Just like when cooking, if you’re applying heat, you want an oil that won’t break down and cause harm.
Coconut oil is also fantastic for your hair because its main fatty acid, lauric acid, penetrates deep into the hair shaft for more protection and moisture. Plus, it’s great for your skin, especially if you have any rashes or acne.
Don’t worry if coconut oil solidifies in cooler spots; that’s not been an issue in this recipe. But if you’re concerned, try fractionated coconut oil.
Almond oil is another great option for heat styling thanks to its durability and the added bonus of vitamin E.
Even though there’s no direct research linking essential oils to heat protection, they are believed to strengthen hair and regulate oil production. For instance, geranium oil, included in our blend, encourages hair to grow faster. Clary sage is also used here because it’s known for strengthening hair and reducing breakage, thanks to its linalyl acetate content, which can promote hair growth.
In addition to protecting your hair externally, you might also want to boost your hair’s resilience by ensuring your diet includes the right nutrients. This can help fortify your hair from within to withstand heat and prevent breakage better.
So, the key vitamins you’ll want for stronger, shinier hair include:
The article has been reviewed by Dr. Robert Galamaga, a board-certified doctor in internal medicine. Please note, this is not personal medical advice, and it’s always best to consult your doctor or a professional from SteadyMD.
Do you use a heat protectant before styling? Are you thinking about trying this natural alternative? Let me know what you think!
