Best Heat Protectants for 4C Hair
When it comes to styling your 4C hair, heat protection is key.
Heat protectants can help to prevent damage, breakage, and frizz caused by heat-styling tools, such as blow dryers and flat irons.
But with so many different options on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose.
In this post, I’m taking a look at some of the best heat protectants for 4C hair to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
Top Heat Protectants for 4C Hair
Here is a preview of some of the top heat protectants for 4C hair. For more details, read up on each product further below.
| Heat Protectant | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cantu Thermal Shield Heat Protectant | Strengthens and nourishes hair | $15.87 on Amazon |
| OGX Protecting + Silk Blowout thermal spray | Provides a smooth and silky finish | $8.59 on Amazon |
| SheaMoisture Anti-Breakage Heat Protectant | Ideal for fragile and damaged hair | $11.99 on Target |
| CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Spray | Provides superior heat protection | $12.00 on Amazon |
| Mielle Organics Heat Protectant Spray | Infused with Mongongo oil | $7.41 on Amazon |
What Heat Protectant Should I Use for 4C Hair?
If you have natural 4C hair, you know that it can be quite fragile and prone to breakage.
Heat styling can be especially damaging to your hair, which is why using a heat protector is essential. A great heat protectant prevents hair breakage while also nourishing and moisturizing your hair strands.
When choosing a heat protectant for your 4C hair, there are a few things to consider. Look for a product that is:
- Specifically formulated for your hair type
- Offers protection up to the temperature you typically use for styling
- Includes ingredients that are beneficial for your hair
Best Heat Protectants for 4C Hair
If you have 4C hair, you know how important it is to protect your hair from heat damage. Heat protectants can be a lifesaver when it comes to keeping your hair healthy and strong.
Here are five of the best heat protectants for 4C hair:
Product 1: Cantu Thermal Shield Heat Protectant with Shea Butter
The first heat protectant on this list is of course the one I use.
This spray is designed to shield your 4c hair from heat damage, by using shea butter, which builds a protective layer, and a blend of natural oils, which moisturize and strengthen 4C hair.
It is also my favorite natural hair care product brand, and not just because it is the most affordable spray on this list.
Product 2: OGX Protecting + Silk Blowout thermal spray
This heat protectant spray is formulated with silk proteins and argan oil to help protect your 4c hair from heat damage while promoting a smooth, silky finish.
The weightless formula ensures that it does not leave a sticky or greasy residue on your hair, which is important when working with 4c hair.
Product 3: SheaMoisture Anti-Breakage Heat Protectant Spray
Specifically designed for fragile, breakage-prone hair, this heat protectant spray from SheaMoisture helps shield your natural hair from heat damage while also strengthening and moisturizing it.
Its main ingredients are shea butter, Jamaican black castor oil, and apple cider vinegar, which all help promote healthy hair growth.
Product 4: CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Spray
This popular heat protectant spray is known for its ability to provide superior heat protection against excessive heat exposure.
As you may know, CHI is a professional hair care brand that is suitable for all hair types, including 4C hair.
It has a lightweight formula and is a long-lasting hold that keeps your hairstyle in place for longer periods of time.
Product 5: Mielle Organics Mongongo Oil Thermal & Heat Protectant Spray
Formulated with mongongo oils, burdock root extract, and other nourishing ingredients, this heat-protectant spray from Mielle Organics offers thermal protection while also hydrating and moisturizing your hair.
It is specifically formulated for type 4 hair with hydrating and moisturizing properties to help strengthen and nourish your hair.
These are the five best heat protectants for 4C hair on the market right now. They will help to keep your natural hair healthy and strong and make heat styling it more safe.
How Do I Prevent Heat Damage on My 4C Hair?
If you have 4C hair, you know how hard it can be to maintain your natural curl pattern while also styling your hair with heat.
Heat damage can cause your hair to become brittle, and dry, or even cause split ends. However, with proper care and precautions, you can protect your curls from heat damage and maintain healthy hair.
Tips for Heat Styling
When using heat styling tools on your 4C hair, it’s important to take some precautions to minimize the risk of heat damage. Here are some tips to consider:
- Use a heat protectant spray or serum before styling your hair to create a barrier between the heat and your hair.
- Minimize the intensity of the heat as it is applied to the hair. It’s OK to use a blow-dryer and a nozzle, of course, but be sure the heat isn’t on full blast.
- Make sure your flat iron’s temperature is not too high, somewhere between 350°-400° degrees Fahrenheit is best.
- Limit the frequency of heat styling. Try to avoid using heat styling tools every day and opt for protective styles instead.
- Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to comb your hair before styling it. This will help prevent tangles and breakage.
Alternative Styling Methods
If you want to avoid heat styling altogether, there are alternative styling methods you can try. Here are some ideas:
- Twist-outs: Twist your hair into sections and let it set overnight. In the morning, unravel the twists for a defined, curly look.
- Braid-outs: Braid your hair into sections and let it set overnight. In the morning, unravel the braids for a wavy, textured look.
- Bantu knots: Section your hair and twist each section into a small knot. Let it set overnight and unravel in the morning for a defined, curly look.
- Wigs and extensions: If you want to protect your hair from heat damage altogether, consider wearing a wig or extensions. This way, you can switch up your hairstyle without risking damage to your natural hair.
By following these tips and alternative styling methods, you can help prevent heat damage on your 4C hair and maintain its natural curl pattern. Remember to always prioritize the health of your hair over styling preferences.
How Often Should You Use Heat on 4C Hair?
While heat styling is a quick way to achieve a straight or smooth style, it can also cause significant damage to your hair.
To minimize heat damage and keep your 4C hair healthy, you should limit the use of heat on 4C hair to once a week or less. The less frequently you use heat on your hair, the less damage it will sustain.
In addition, use low heat settings when using heat styling tools. High heat can cause significant damage to your hair, especially if you use it frequently.
Following these recommendations can minimize heat damage to your 4C hair. Remember always to take care of your hair and use heat styling tools sparingly to avoid further damage.
Does Heat Protectant Work on 4C Hair?
Using a heat protectant on 4C hair can provide several benefits. While it certainly works for straight hair types, the question is: “Does heat protectant work on 4C hair?”
The answer is yes! Heat protectants work on 4C hair as well, especially the above-mentioned brands that are specifically formulated for natural hair textures.
To find the right one for you, make sure to choose a hair protectant that contains ingredients that reduces frizz and add shine, such as shea butter and natural oils. Avoid products that include harsh chemicals at all costs.
How Do You Use Heat Protectant on 4C Hair?
To get the best results it’s important to use your heat protectant on your 4C hair properly. Here is how:
Step 1: Preparation
Before applying any heat protectant, make sure your hair is clean and as dry as possible.
While you never want to use heat on wet hair, you can apply a heat protectant on damp hair to prepare it for your blow dryer. Once your hair is clean, detangle it thoroughly.
Step 2: Application
Apply your heat protectant evenly throughout your natural hair, section by section. Make sure to focus on the ends of your hair, as they are the most vulnerable to heat damage.
Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly. Do not apply too much product, as this can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy.
Step 3: Styling
After applying the heat protectant, you can proceed with your flat ironing process. Make sure to use the lowest heat setting possible to minimize the risk of heat damage.
If you are using a flat iron or curling iron, use small sections of hair and move the tool slowly through your hair to ensure even heat distribution.
Remember to always keep the heat tool moving to prevent heat damage.
Rozey
Wednesday 4th of January 2023
Where is the info on the best heat protectant for natural hair?
4chairstyles
Wednesday 4th of January 2023
Hi Rozey, updating the post. Will be up later this week.