What is the effect of using high heat on hair?

Using high heat on hair can lead to thermal damage and breakage, which is critical for professionals to understand. Hair is primarily composed of a protein called keratin, and when exposed to excessive heat, the internal structure of the hair can become compromised. This includes the weakening of the hydrogen bonds that help maintain hair's strength and elasticity. Continuous exposure to high heat can cause the cuticle (the outer layer of the hair) to lift or become damaged, resulting in a rough texture, frizziness, and increased susceptibility to breakage.

While high heat can temporarily change the appearance of hair and may assist in styling, the long-term effects are detrimental. Styling appliances like flat irons and curling wands can indeed help achieve desired hairstyles more efficiently, but it’s crucial to balance this with protective measures, such as heat protectants or limiting the frequency of high-heat styling to minimize damage. Maintaining hair’s moisture level is important, but high heat typically causes the opposite effect by stripping away moisture, leading to dryness and brittleness over time. Understanding these effects is vital for professionals to ensure they provide the best care for their clients' hair.