Heat Protectant Spray

Heat protectant sprays that help prevent heat damage

Before you blow-dry, straighten or curl, a hair heat protectant creates a barrier between your strands and direct heat, working the same way sunscreen does for your skin. Many formulas also work as leave-in treatments or serums, so you're protecting and nourishing in one step.

The thing is, hair damage can start at temperatures as low as 130°C, and most tools run well above that. If your hair is bleached or colour-treated, the risk is even higher since chemical processing already weakens your hair structure.

You don't have to give up the hairstyling tools you love, though. At Hairhouse, we offer heat protectant sprays for every hair type and concern, from fine and colour-treated to thick and curly, so you can style with confidence every time.

How heat styling affects your hair

Heat styling tools like flat irons, curling wands and your trusty hair dryer work by breaking down the bonds in your hair to reshape it. The catch is that without protection, that same process strips moisture from your strands, weakens the outer cuticle and leads to dryness, breakage and split ends. The more often you style on high heat, the more that damage builds up.

The good news? A heat protector acts as a heat shield between your tools and your hair, slowing heat transfer so your strands stay stronger for longer. You really don't have to choose between great hair and healthy hair.

Do heat protectant sprays actually work?

Yes, heat protectant sprays genuinely work! They coat your strands with a thin film that slows heat transfer and distributes it more evenly, so your hair heats up gradually rather than taking the full force all at once. Whatever your hair concern, there's a formula out there that does more than just protect. Here's what a good heat protectant actually does for your hair:

• Locks in moisture by forming a barrier over the hair shaft, helping your strands hold onto hydration while you style.
• Smooths and softens your hair for a shinier, bouncier result. Many formulas are packed with lightweight oils like argan or Moroccan oil that work wonders on frizz, especially if you have damaged hair.
• Works on damp or dry hair, making it versatile for any routine, whether you're prepping for a blowout or doing a quick touch-up with a flat iron.
• Cuts down your drying time, which means less time exposing your hair to heat overall.

What to look for in a heat protectant spray

Not all heat protectants are created equal, so it pays to know what's actually in the bottle. Silicones like dimethicone are key ingredients to look out for, as they coat the hair shaft, seal in moisture and slow heat transfer.

If your hair is prone to breakage, amino acids are your friend as they help rebuild strength from within. For extra nourishment, a formula with lightweight oils like argan or jojoba will hydrate and protect your strands at the same time.

How to choose a heat protectant for your hair type

The best heat protectant for you depends on your hair type and your biggest concern. Here's a quick guide to help you find your match:

• Oily or thinning hair: Choose a lightweight, non-greasy spray specifically made for fine hair that won't weigh your strands down or leave residue.
• Dry or damaged hair: Go for a formula rich in nourishing oils like argan or jojoba to help revive and protect at the same time.
• Colour-treated or chemically processed hair: Look for a heat protectant formulated specifically for treated strands to help maintain vibrancy and prevent further damage.
• Frizzy hair: A cream or serum will give you more control and smoother results than a spray.
• Curly hair: Look for a lightweight formula that protects without disrupting your curl pattern, ideally one that also adds moisture.

How to use heat protectant spray

Using a heat protectant the right way gives your hair the best chance of staying healthy while you style. Whether you're blow-drying, straightening, curling or waving, the hairstyling routine is simpler than you think. Here's how to get it right every time:

• Start with towel-dried, damp hair before blow-drying, or fully dry hair before straightening or curling. Your protectant needs to go on before any heat does.
• Spritz lightly and evenly through your hair, avoiding the scalp. Too much product can weigh your hair down, so less is more. Using a hair serum or hair oil? Warm a small amount between your palms first, then work it through in sections.
• Comb through from roots to ends to make sure every strand is coated. This also helps with detangling and makes the whole styling process smoother.
• Style on a low to medium heat setting and keep your tool moving. Holding it on one section for too long is where damage sneaks in.
• Seal it all in with a finishing spray once you're done for a style that holds and a little extra shine.

Shop heat protectant sprays at Hairhouse

At Hairhouse, we've got everything you need to protect your hair and keep it looking and feeling its best.

We stock heat protectant sprays for every hair type, from curly and wavy to straight and everything in between, with professional brands including ghd, Kérastase, L'Oréal Professionnel, Olaplex, Redken, evo, muk, De Lorenzo, Joico, Wella and Oribe to choose from. Browse our bestsellers to find your next favourite hair product.

You'll also find everything else your haircare and hairstyling routine needs, including hair treatments like hair masks, leave-in conditioners and leave-in treatments, anti-frizz products, styling sprays, dry shampoo, mousse and travel-size options for styling on the go.

Shop online and enjoy free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $70, or visit one of our 125+ Hairhouse stores across Australia to shop in person.