Flat irons and curling irons are not the enemy. The temperature, the pace, and the lack of protection are. Here you’ll find the figures and techniques that let you style regularly without your hair paying the price.
What heat does to the hair shaft
The hair shaft consists of an outer cuticle layer and an inner core that holds moisture. At excessive heat, the moisture evaporates so quickly that the cuticle lifts and cracks. Your hair may still look fine that same evening, but it becomes rougher each time, loses its shine, and starts to tangle. With hair extensions, the damage is permanent - there is no scalp to grow new hair.
Temperatures to stick to
- Fine or bleached hair: 150–170 °C
- Normal human hair: 170–190 °C
- Thick or coarse hair: 190–200 °C
- Heat-resistant synthetic hair: max 150 °C, and always check the manufacturer’s specifications
- Non-heat-resistant synthetic hair: no heat at all
If you cannot adjust the temperature on your tool, it is worth replacing it. A tool with a fixed setting is often above 200 °C.
Protect before applying heat
Always apply a protective layer to your hair before using heated tools. KIS Daily Leave-in Spray strengthens the hair’s outer layer and locks in moisture, making it a good final step before blow-drying. Spray evenly through the lengths, comb through, and let your hair dry before bringing out the flat iron.
The technique that makes the biggest difference
- Style only completely dry hair. Moisture in a flat iron boils from the inside.
- Work in thin sections. A thick section requires several passes - thin sections can be done in one.
- One pass, an even pace, all the way through. Never stop with the iron in the same place.
- Keep at least two centimetres away from the attachment points. Heat can soften keratin and loosen tape.
- Let your hair cool before brushing through it. Warm hair takes shape - cool hair holds its shape.
Blow-dry more intelligently
Let your hair air-dry to around eighty per cent before blow-drying. You cut the time spent under hot air in half without compromising the result. Hold the nozzle pointing down along the hair shaft, never upwards towards the cuticle, and finish with cool air for shine.
After styling
A couple of drops of KIS Arganolja PowerSerum on the ends replaces some of what the heat took away. If you have styled your hair a lot during the week, a KIS KeraMoist Treatment at your next wash is a good way to restore the balance.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have used too much heat?
A clear sign is that your hair feels dry and slightly rubbery while it is still warm, and rough once it has cooled. Another sign is that the style drops out faster than before - damaged hair holds its shape less effectively. If you can see white, dehydrated ends, the damage is advanced.
Is a curling iron gentler than a flat iron?
Often yes, because the hair lies loosely around the iron instead of being pressed between two plates. However, the contact time per section is longer, so the benefit disappears if you hold it in place for too long. Count the seconds instead of going by feel.
Can I style my hair every day if I use heat protection?
Protection reduces damage but does not eliminate it. Two to three heat-styling sessions per week is a reasonable level for hair that needs to last a long time. If you need a fresh look in between, overnight braided waves or an updo are better choices than another session with the iron.
Everything you need for gentle styling can be found in our styling range.