Yes, heat can burn hair. While heat styling tools can help shape and style your hair, exposing your hair to excessive heat can damage its structure and lead to several issues. Hair is primarily made of keratin, a protein that changes its shape when exposed to high temperatures. Prolonged exposure to heat above 140°F/60°C can alter the keratin structure, making hair brittle, dry, and prone to breakage.
Signs of heat damage include:
- Dryness and brittleness: Hair feels rough and lacks moisture.
- Split ends and breakage: Hair appears frayed at the ends and breaks easily.
- Frizz and unmanageability: Hair becomes difficult to style and prone to tangles.
- Loss of elasticity: Hair loses its ability to stretch and bounce back.
- Color fading: Hair color may appear dull and faded.
To minimize heat damage, use heat protectant sprays before styling and avoid using high heat settings. It's also essential to use heat styling tools on low settings and avoid prolonged exposure to heat.
