Stylists are all too aware of the effects of heat damage, and although styling tools can help your clients to achieve their desired look, the effects of overuse are hard to ignore - so should you advise your clients to add heat rest to their hair care routine?
Richard Scorer, Creative Director at Haringtons shares that heat damage is every stylist’s pet hate. “The overuse of heated styling tools is just too easy to do. It can destroy all our good work but once the client is addicted to seeing the effects of over worked, over heated hair it’s hard to wean them off.”
Maya Jama recently posted in her Instagram Stories that she was wearing a hat because her hair was on “heat rest”, understandable for someone who is always booked, busy - and having her hair styled with heated tools. Ria Kulik, North Western Hairdresser of the Year, says it’s great to see Maya talking about taking a break from heat styling: “It’s something we regularly encourage our clients to do. Maya’s hair always looks on point, but clients don’t always realise how constantly styling hair with heated tools can leave it dry and damaged.” Ria adds that at this time of year it’s even more important to show hair a little love and leave it to dry naturally between parties and family get-togethers.
How Clients Can Adopt a Heat Rest Routine
Jacqui McIntosh, European Director of Education for Avlon UK, explains that a combination of conditioning treatments, heat protectants and occasional heat-free days will keep clients’ hair healthy and beautiful. “During this break, clients should focus on deep conditioning treatments, using nourishing hair masks, and avoiding any heat styling tools. This heat free rest will allow their hair to recover and restore its natural strength and shine.”
Sam Millard owner of Flaunt, Hereford, also explains that heat rest gives clients’ hair and scalp a chance to recover with natural oils: “We all tend to use heat to style our hair and even though using the best protection products and intensive conditioners will definitely help, a rest is always best!"
Richard does however remind clients not to underestimate the effects of heat protector on clients' hair, telling us: “We’ve all seen the results of heat protector on toast circulating online. We talk about Saturday night hair and Monday morning hair. The idea being you spend your hair damage points on Saturday but save them on a Monday; heat resting when you can. This doesn’t have to be on those days but it’s the principle of keeping in your mind all the time how harsh the irons are and not just thoughtlessly using them.”
Emma Simmons explains that at SALON 54 in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, they champion the benefits of heat-free styling by offering practical tips to clients: “We empower our clients to prioritise hair health while still enjoying a variety of styling options. Embracing this approach not only aligns with the growing emphasis on natural beauty but it also positions our stylists as trusted advocates for the long-term well-being of our clients' hair."
Trichologist, Tiffany Hall encourages heat rest at least three times a week for clients. “During consultations I go through different options that clients can use to limit the frequency of using heat on their hair. For example, with my clients that have curly hair types, I encourage them to loose-plait in large sections and let their hair dry naturally. This not only gives the hair a break from heat but is styled so it doesn't put tension on their hair."
The Benefits of Heat Rest
Emma Simmons explains the benefits of heat rest:
- Restored Hair Health:Heat styling tools can strip the hair of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Recommending heat-free styling allows clients to restore their hair's health, promoting natural shine and vitality.
- Versatile Natural Textures: Encouraging clients to embrace their natural textures opens a world of versatile styling options. From loose waves to tight curls, each client's unique texture becomes a canvas for creativity, allowing us to tailor styles that complement their individuality.
- Reduced Styling Time: Heat-free styles often require less time and effort, providing clients with a convenient alternative for their daily routines. Suggesting low-maintenance styles can be particularly appealing to those with busy schedules.
Read our article to find out how long damaged hair takes to repair.
