This wellness expert has the best tips to protect your hair from blow dryers, curlers, styling sprays, more

Hairstyling tips: Styling your hair is important but even more important is nourishment. Before using any straightener or curler, apply a heat protectant spray or serum (Image: Pexels)

The festive season is upon us — and so are the blow dryers, curlers, straighteners, and styling sprays. Whether it’s Navratri parties or back-to-back weddings, your hair goes through a lot. While the final look may be worth the effort, the damage left behind often isn’t.

A good festive hair routine starts long before the party does, Divita Kanoria, founder of Tatha, a wellness and skincare brand, Delhi, told Moneycontrol. “In the days leading up to the festive season, oil your hair with lightweight natural oils like coconut, almond, or argan. It strengthens the roots and gives your hair a natural shield before it is exposed to any heat,” she said.

Massage it in gently the night before your wash day, and your strands will thank you — soft, hydrated, and ready for styling.

Also read | For long, healthy hair, follow these 7 tips for an effective haircare routine before bedtime

Styling your hair is important but even more important is nourishment. Before using any straightener or curler, apply a heat protectant spray or serum. “Lighter sprays are perfect for fine hair, while creams or serums are better suited to thicker textures. This single step can significantly reduce heat-induced breakage and dullness,” Kanoria said.

It’s tempting to speed the curler up for quicker results, but resist. “Keep your tools between 150–180°C, or even lower if you’ve got fine or colour-treated hair. High temperatures not only increase frizz but can also cause irreversible damage over time — something no hairstyle can fix,” she suggested.

Conditioning your hair is also crucial. With the amount of product and washing during this season, your hair needs moisture — a lot of it. “Use a good conditioner after every wash, and a deep conditioning mask once a week to restore hydration. This will help maintain softness and shine while making your strands stronger against breakage,” said Kanoria.

Also read | Hair care tips: Stop hair loss with these 6 expert-approved home remedies for summer

Try not to wash and style your hair every single day. Kanoria advised, “Simple updos, braids, or low buns can keep your look fresh without heat exposure.” A dry shampoo can help stretch the days between washes while keeping your scalp fresh and bouncy. At night, wrap your hair in a silk scarf or switch to a satin pillowcase. This little trick reduces overnight frizz and friction, keeping your festive blowout smoother for longer.

FAQs on How to Keep Hair Healthy:

1. How often should I oil my hair to keep it healthy?

Oiling your hair with lightweight natural oils such as coconut, almond, or argan 2-3 times a week helps strengthen the roots and provides a natural shield before heat styling.

2. What should I do before using heat styling tools on my hair?

Before using straighteners or curlers, apply a heat protectant spray or serum. This reduces heat-induced breakage and dullness significantly.

3. At what temperature should I use my heat styling tools to avoid damage?

Keep your heat styling tools between 150-180°C, or even lower if you have fine or colour-treated hair. Higher temperatures can cause frizz and irreversible damage.

4. How often should I condition my hair during the festive season?

Use a good conditioner after every wash and a deep conditioning mask once a week to restore hydration, maintaining softness and shine while strengthening your hair against breakage.

5. How can I maintain my hairstyle without daily washing and styling?

Opt for simple updos, braids, or low buns to keep your look fresh without heat exposure. Use dry shampoo to extend the time between washes and sleep on a satin pillowcase or wrap your hair in a silk scarf to reduce overnight frizz and friction.

Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.