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How do you apply heat to oiled hair?

Published in Hair Care 4 mins read

To apply heat to oiled hair effectively and safely for styling, the key is to incorporate the hair oil into damp hair before introducing heat from styling tools. This method ensures the oil acts as a protective barrier and enhances the styling process rather than causing damage.

How to Apply Heat to Oiled Hair

For achieving a polished look with heat styling, such as an effortless blow-out, it's recommended to apply hair oil to damp hair before any heat is used. This pre-application helps protect the hair from heat damage, adds shine, and tames frizz, leading to a smoother, healthier finish.

The Proper Process for Heat Styling Oiled Hair

Integrating hair oil into your routine prior to heat styling is a simple yet impactful step. Here's how to do it:

Step-by-Step Application

  1. Start with Damp Hair: Begin with hair that is towel-dried but still slightly damp. This is the ideal state for the oil to be absorbed and distributed effectively.
  2. Dispense Hair Oil: Take just a few drops of your chosen hair oil into your palms. The exact amount depends on your hair's length and thickness; usually, a pea-sized to dime-sized amount is sufficient.
  3. Distribute Evenly: Rub your hands together to spread the oil, then apply it evenly through your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Avoid applying too much oil directly to the roots, as this can make your hair look greasy.
  4. Comb Through (Optional but Recommended): For even distribution, gently comb through your hair with a wide-tooth comb.
  5. Proceed with Heat Styling: Once the oil is distributed, you can now use your heat-styling tools, such as a blow dryer, flat iron, or curling iron, as desired.

Why Apply Oil Before Heat?

Applying hair oil to damp hair before heat offers several benefits:

  • Heat Protection: Many hair oils form a protective barrier around the hair shaft, reducing direct heat impact and minimizing damage.
  • Enhanced Shine: Oils help to smooth the hair cuticles, reflecting light and imparting a healthy, vibrant shine.
  • Frizz Reduction: By sealing the hair cuticle, oils effectively tame frizz and flyaways, especially in humid conditions.
  • Smoother Finish: The lubrication from the oil allows heat tools to glide more easily through the hair, resulting in a smoother, more polished outcome.
  • Faster Drying: Some lightweight oils can actually help reduce drying time when blow-drying.

Choosing the Right Oil and Tools

Selecting the appropriate products and tools is crucial for optimal results and hair health.

Selecting Your Hair Oil

Different hair oils cater to various hair types and needs. For heat styling, lightweight oils are generally preferred as they won't weigh down the hair or leave it greasy. Look for formulations containing argan oil, jojoba oil, or grapeseed oil. If you have very thick or coarse hair, a slightly richer oil might be suitable. Always choose a product specifically designed as a hair oil or heat protectant serum.

Heat Styling Tools

Common heat styling tools used with oiled hair include:

  • Hair Dryers: For blow-drying and achieving volume or a sleek finish.
  • Flat Irons: To straighten hair or create soft waves.
  • Curling Irons/Wands: To add curls or waves.

Important Considerations for Oiled Hair and Heat

To maximize benefits and prevent damage, keep these points in mind:

  • Hair Dampness is Key: Never apply oil to dry hair immediately before using high heat styling tools like flat irons or curling irons. Applying oil to dry hair then adding direct high heat can potentially "fry" the hair, as the oil heats up rapidly. The "damp hair" instruction is critical for safety and efficacy.
  • Amount Matters: Using too much oil can make your hair greasy, weigh it down, or even make it harder to style. Start with a small amount and add more only if necessary.
  • Heat Settings: Always use the lowest effective heat setting on your styling tools. High heat increases the risk of damage, even with heat protection.
  • Move Constantly: When using flat irons or curling irons, keep the tool moving through the hair strands. Avoid holding it in one place for too long.
  • Deep Conditioning vs. Styling Oil: Be aware that heavy oils used for deep conditioning treatments (e.g., coconut oil as an overnight mask) are different from lightweight styling oils meant for heat protection. Always wash out heavy oils before heat styling.
Aspect Best Practice with Oiled Hair and Heat
Hair Condition Damp, towel-dried, not soaking wet or fully dry
Oil Amount A few drops (start small, add if needed)
Application Mid-lengths to ends, avoiding roots and scalp
Tool Usage Keep tools moving, avoid prolonged contact
Heat Setting Use the lowest effective temperature for your hair type

By carefully applying hair oil to damp hair before heat styling, you can protect your strands, achieve a beautiful finish, and maintain overall hair health.