Damage caused by hair straighteners: how to prevent it correctly

In recent days, Isa Otón, creative director of ATICA Salón, has contributed to an article published in The Objective in which she analyzes an increasingly common problem: damage to hair caused by flat irons.

First, it is important to clarify that heat is not harmful in itself. However, when applied repeatedly and without thermal protection, it can profoundly alter the hair fiber.

In fact, many people use flat irons at temperatures above 180°C without first assessing the actual condition of their hair. As a result, damage gradually accumulates.

Why can flat irons damage hair?

From a technical standpoint, excessive heat denatures keratin, which is the main protein in hair. When this occurs, the structure loses elasticity and strength.

In addition, continued use causes:

• Loss of internal hydration.

• Appearance of split ends.

• Frizz.

• Lack of shine.

• Greater breakage in the middle and ends.

For this reason, thermal damage is not always immediate. On the contrary, it usually manifests itself over time.