Should Heat Protectant Be Re-Applied After Blow Drying? If you’re blow-drying your hair and then planning to straighten or curl it afterwards, you might be wondering …do you really need to reapply your heat protectant in between?
The short answer: yes, you should, but in some instances, I say don’t bother. Here’s why.
Once you finish blow-drying your hair, there will be a barrier of protection around each strand. However, the product may no longer offer full protection – especially if you did not cover each and every strand with your heat protectant prior to blow-drying. When hair is wet, it clumps together, so the likelihood that you managed to coat your hair sufficiently is kinda low.
So to ensure your locks are properly protected and to protect your strands from breakage, it’s best to reapply a light mist of heat protectant before each heat styling step. But if you have finer hair and are worried about your tresses becoming limp or greasy, then feel free top skip re-applying it!
How to Use Heat Protectant Spray
Using heat protectant correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. Here’s how:
- Towel-dry your hair first so that it’s not dripping wet.
- Hold the spray 15-20 cm away from your head for even coverage.
- Apply section by section, focusing on mid-lengths to ends. Avoid over-saturating.
- Comb through to distribute evenly.
- Let the product sit for a minute or two before applying heat.
Does Heat Protectant Work?
Yes, heat protectants do work …when used properly. These products are formulated with ingredients like silicones (e.g., dimethicone), polymers, and conditioning agents that coat the hair shaft and act as a thermal barrier. This helps reduce moisture loss, prevent cuticle cracking, and minimise long-term damage.
While heat protectants won’t make your hair completely immune to damage, they significantly reduce the effects of frequent heat styling. Think of them as sunscreen for your strands – they’re not a pass to crank your straightener to 230°C every day, but they help mitigate the impact.
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Do You Let Heat Protectant Dry Before Straightening?
Yes, always let heat protectant dry before using any heated tool.
Applying a straightener or curling wand to damp or still-wet heat protectant can cause your hair to sizzle, leading to greater damage than styling without protection. If you’re using a liquid or spray formula, wait until it’s completely dry or gently blow-dry your hair again for a few seconds to ensure it’s no longer damp. Some products are made for dry application and dry down almost instantly. Check your label for usage instructions.
Summary | Should Heat Protectant Be Re-Applied After Blow Drying?
- It’s highly recommended after blow-drying if you’re using another hot tool.
- If you have fine hair that is prone to oiliness or becoming limp, then you can opt to skip it.
- Spray section by section on damp or dry hair and comb through.
- Heat protectants work, but they’re not a shield against extreme temperatures.
- Always let it dry before applying a heated styling tool.
Protect your hair every step of the way …because damage is easier to prevent than to repair.
Shop our full range of Heat Protectant Sprays at My Haircare & Beauty!
Mel
Mel is a former Hair Stylist with over a decade of industry experience.
She enjoys writing about all aspects of the hair & beauty world including, trends, new products & best-sellers.
