Why You Should Never Skip Heat Protection

Whether you’re a regular with the straighteners or just occasionally blow-dry your fringe, using heat without protection can silently damage your hair over time. The good news? A few small changes to your routine can make a big difference.

At Salon Cabelo, we believe in helping you care for your hair long before (and after) you sit in the chair. In this post, we’re diving into how heat protection works, how to prevent everyday damage, and what to do if your hair is already feeling tired, dry or brittle.



Why Heat Styling Can Be So Damaging

Hair tools like straighteners, curlers and blow-dryers can reach temperatures up to 230°C – more than enough to:

• Strip moisture
• Weaken the internal structure of the hair
• Roughen the outer cuticle
• Causes split ends and breakage
• Accelerate colour fading

Even just regular blow-drying without protection can cause cumulative stress on the hair fibre, especially if your hair is fine, coloured, or naturally dry. (Healthline, Allure)

What Does a Heat Protector Actually Do?

Heat protectors act like an invisible barrier over your hair. They help:

• Lock in internal moisture
• Reduce surface damage
• Prevent heat-induced protein breakdown
• Maintain softness, smoothness and shine
• Preserve your colour and condition for longer

Many modern heat protectors also contain bond-building technology or hydrating plant oils, which strengthen your hair while you style.

Our Favourite Aveda Heat Protectors

At Salon Cabelo, we use and recommend Aveda’s plant-powered heat protection range:

✅ Botanical Repair™ Bond-Building Styling Cream

Protects and strengthens. Ideal for regular heat styling and dry, fragile hair.

✅ Nutriplenish™ Leave-In Conditioner

Hydrating and heat-protective – perfect for dry or textured hair types.

✅ Brilliant™ Damage Control

A lightweight mist for daily protection and detangling. Great all-rounder.

✅ Heat Relief™ Thermal Protector & Conditioning Mist

Perfect for second-day dry styling – adds moisture and shields before using hot tools.

✅ Miraculous Oil High-Shine Concentrate

Adds instant shine, reduces frizz and protects from heat. A new favourite in the salon!

Other Ways to Prevent Hair Damage

Alongside heat protection, here are a few stylist-approved tips to help you keep your hair strong and healthy:

• Avoid over-washing – Washing too frequently can strip your hair of natural oils. Every 2–3 days is enough for most hair types.
• Be gentle when wet – Hair is more fragile when damp. Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush, starting at the ends and working up.
• Use a microfibre towel or cotton t-shirt – These reduce friction and help prevent cuticle damage.
• Sleep on a satin or bamboo silk pillowcase – Less friction = less frizz, fewer tangles, and less breakage overnight.
• Go easy on tight hairstyles – Constant tension from tight buns, ponytails or braids can weaken the hair shaft and cause breakage at the root.
• Only have your hair coloured professionally – Professional colour services are gentler on your hair, applied with care, and customised to your hair’s condition and goals.

 What If My Hair Is Already Damaged?

If your hair feels dry, fragile or prone to snapping, it’s a sign that the inner structure has been compromised – but it’s not too late to help it recover.

In-salon treatments can restore strength, boost shine and repair bonds within the hair. These aren’t your average conditioners – they’re targeted, professional-grade treatments designed to work deeper than what you’d use at home.

At Salon Cabelo, we offer a range of Aveda Botanical Repair™ and Nutriplenish™ rituals tailored to your hair’s specific needs. Whether your hair is coloured, naturally dry, or just needs a boost, we’ll guide you to the right solution.

 Want to learn more? We’ll be sharing a full blog post soon on our favourite in-salon treatments – stay tuned!
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