4 Hair Styling Tools That Can Cause Hair Loss Are Hair Straighteners, Blow Dryers, RevAir & Curling Irons
Whether you’re looking for ways to lighten your hair product load for storage and space reasons or are considering a serious product and styling tool detox to give your hair a much-needed break, there are a few tools out there that are worth putting aside for the sake of healthier hair. According to Dr. Anju Methil, MBBS, DVD, MD, Dermatology and Cosmetology, who is a medical consultant at ClinicSpots, there are four tools, specifically, that can damage your hair and may even lead to hair loss and thinning. Using these sparingly may give your hair the boost it needs in volume or that extra-special shine you crave at that formal event. But be mindful about over-using these hair tools — they’re also notorious for causing hair damage and shedding.
Hair straighteners
Hair straightener tools are very good at their job — and if you’re seeking sleeker, straighter hair, they’ll deliver. But they can also cause hair breakage. “The high heat of the flat iron weakens the bonds in the hair, leading to breakage and split ends,” Dr. Methil says. “To reduce damage, one should always use a lower temperature setting and avoid using too much force when styling. Additionally, make sure to use a protective serum or oil before applying heat so that it can act as a buffer between the heat and the hair.”
Dr. Methil also recommends choosing ceramic irons instead of metal ones, as they are gentler on the hair. “Taking these precautions will help reduce the risk of damage from using a flat iron.”
Blow Dryers
The heat from the blow dryer combined with brushing or over manipulating the hair can lead to breakage and split ends, Dr. Methil stresses. “To prevent hair breakage when using a blow dryer, always make sure to use heat protection products like a thermal spray before drying the hair,” she cautions. “Try to use the lowest heat setting possible and always start drying from the bottom of the strand, moving up so that you don’t cause too much tension or breakage. Be sure to avoid tangling your hair while drying by using a round brush and keeping the dryer moving in a circular motion.”
RevAir
Even though the RevAir is considered safe and will not cause damage to healthy hair. Dr. Methil cautions that if your hair is already damaged or weak from chemical treatments or excessive heat styling, using RevAir could lead to further breakage and split ends.
“It’s important to assess the condition of your hair before using the tool,” Dr. Methil says. “If it is damaged, you should make sure to use a lower temperature setting and avoid focusing on any one area for too long. Additionally, it’s best to apply a heat protectant product prior to using RevAir to help minimize the risk of further damage.”
Curling Iron
Curling irons are wonderful for providing volume, tight curls, and loose waves. But too much of a good thing can damage your hair.
:Over-exposure to high temperatures from a curling iron can lead to split ends, breakage, and dryness,” Dr. Methil says. “Heat styling also strips away the natural moisture in your strands which leads to frizziness. To avoid damaging your hair when using a curling iron, set it at the lowest temperature possible that will still give you the desired results.”
Dr. Methil also reminds us to use a heat protectant and make sure to not leave it on your hair for too long. “It’s best to limit exposure to heat styling tools as much as possible, so try air drying or using other heating appliances like blow dryers sparingly,” she says. “Make sure your curling iron is made of high-quality materials that won’t overheat and cause additional damage. Look for ones with adjustable temperature settings and ceramic or tourmaline components as these are gentler on your hair.”
Another tip: try a heatless curling solution like Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set, which gives you frizz-free waves and ringlets overnight — without the damage.
