The 12 Best Heat Protectants, According to Beauty Pros

I may love a lot of heat protectants, but without fail I will *always* go back to this tried and true formula. Its main allure is that it provides a multitude of benefits. It has magic detangling powers that let me brush through knots with ease, controls my frizz (especially in the summer humidity), and gives a conditioning boost with a combination of six different oils. As an added bonus, it comes with UV heat protection, which helps me maintain my color in the sun.

Pros: Multi-benefit; UV protection 

Cons: Too heavy for some 

This hair oil from Oribe has the added benefit of giving you some heat protection alongside a boost of shine, which is precisely why it's E-Commerce Editor Julia Marzovilla's go-to. "It’s lightweight so it doesn’t make my hair feel weighed down or overly greasy, and makes it feel noticeably softer after I use it," she says. "I apply it when my hair is still damp so I can use it before I blow dry." For a little added shine, add in a drop post-styling.

Pros: Editor-approved; Adds shine 

Cons: Expensive 

If you whip out your hot tool on day two (or even three, or four), you need to find a heat protectant that can be spritzed on dry hair. Enter this Maria Nila Cream Spray, which creates a layer of protection between the heat and your cuticle. It actually repairs damaged hair, while simultaneously protecting against split ends and infusing moisture. My personal favorite aspect of this product is the intoxicating scent. It’s a mix of peach, apple, and rose that’s that perfect fruity-floral blend. 

Pros: Can be used on dry hair; Great scent 

Cons: Too heavy for fine hair 

I’ve been using this detangler religiously for a couple of years and can’t say enough positive things about it. Just a few sprays and a wide tooth comb will work through any knot or tangle—without causing breakage or creating damage. A blend of oils (including rahua and sachi) block out humidity and keep frizz at bay, while a special UV protector keeps my blonde from turning all kinds of brassy in the summer.

Pros: Editor-approved; Humidity resistant; Good for Color 

Cons: Not as moisturizing as some 

The DreamCoat doesn’t lead with its heat protecting properties, but rest assured they’re an essential part of the formula. In fact, this particular product doesn’t work without a hot tool—it’s heat activated. Just spray a generous amount through your damp strands and get to styling. The extreme temperatures activate the frizz-fighting technology and create an uber-shiny, glass hair effect, all while protecting the strand from damage. Unlike other products, the protection properties last through up to four shampoos. 

Pros: Gives shine; Humidity proof 

Cons: Only use on damp hair 

Protecting against environmental agressors is just as important as protecting against heat damage, which is precisely why this formula is Washington's favorite. "Offering 12 different benefits, this leave in hair mask can do it all. In addition to providing heat protection, it also guards against UV rays," he explains. "It's important to note that it is not just the heat from our hair tools that can cause damage."

Pros: Stylist-approved; Multi-benefit; Antioxidant protection; Detangles

Cons: Thicker texture

This hair serum is a step down from hair oils in terms of weight, which makes it a great option for fine hair. "My hair tends to get oily, so I use this after I hop out of the shower in the summer for a touch of hydration that doesn’t weigh it down. Aside from being a heat protectant, it also protects against stressors like pollution and adds shine," says Marzovilla. Use it regularly, and I promise your hair will look healthier.

Pros: Editor-approved; Repairs and protects

Cons: Expensive 

The TRESemmé Heat Protection Spray is designed to guard against high temperatures, which is particularly useful if you have thicker, curlier, or tricky to style hair. Some hot tools can get as high as 446 degrees, and the heat protectant spray ensures your hair is adequately protected. The dispenser creates a super fine mist too, so you have incredible control over the quantity of product you're applying.

Pros: Professional-approved; Affordable; Protects against extreme temperatures 

Cons: Some say it’s slightly sticky

This heat protectant goes a long way in terms of keeping hair frizz-free and curls defined. Trust Beauty Writer Gabrielle Ulubay: "Its milky formula is thick and moisturizing, so a little goes a long way. In addition to using it before blow-drying, I also like carrying this little bottle with me so I can touch up my look on the go.”

Pros: Editor-approved; Great for frizz; Moisturizing 

Cons: Pump can be messy

While the technology behind heat protection works with all hair types, some formulas are inherently better suited for specific textures. Take this Pattern spray, for example. It’s designed to be particularly lightweight, so it won’t weigh down curls or coils. You’ll maintain your bounce through the diffusing or curling process and lock in moisture with sunflower and jojoba seed oil. 

Pros: Very lightweight; Good for curly hair 

Cons: Too much product makes hair oily 

Jennifer Aniston co-created this hair product, so rest assured it’s not going to disappoint. The fresh-scented spray is designed to detangle hair, provide thermal protection, enhance shine (thank you, lemon extract!), and hydrate with ceramides. It’s intended to be used on damp hair, but my favorite hack is to use it as a dry hair refresh. I just spray a little bit into the palms of my hands and work it through my mid-length and roots for an extra shine boost.

Pros: Editor-approved; Hydrating 

Cons: Slightly tacky

If you’re dealing with a lot of breakage, it’s probably best to lay off the hot tools. Now, if you can’t fathom a life without your straightening iron, turn your attention to this heat protectant. It’s the real deal with a sole purpose to repair your fried ends. The formula is packed with lentils and glutamic acid, two amino acids determined to protect and rebuild split ends and weak cuticles. It’s not actually a miracle worker, but in my experience it’s comes pretty close.

Pros: Good for damage; Hydrating 

Cons: A little sticky