Several heat protectant products were evaluated, each with unique characteristics and performance.
R+Co Bleu Hypersonic Heat Styling Mist ($36): This aerosol comes in a recycled aluminum bottle and offers protection up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, with frizz-fighting properties. Despite initial popularity for its high-tech presentation, the mist was observed to leave a sticky residue on hands and heat tools over time due to its polymer and resin complex.
Pureology Instant Levitation Mist ($32): Designed for color-treated hair, this mist aimed to protect without affecting highlights or balayage. Nonetheless, it left a dull residue, and users did not find its volumizing claims effective.
Biolage Thermal Setting Spray ($23): Favorably noted for its dual usability on damp or dry hair, this spray did not specify a temperature limit. However, it resulted in stiffness regardless of usage method, although some appreciated it for setting curls.
Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blowdry Perfection & Heat Protectant Creme ($12): While this cream was noted for its thick consistency, it was observed to make thick, unruly hair more difficult to manage, requiring more flat iron passes at maximum temperature.
IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Protein Smoothing Spray ($34): Users reported a drying effect on hair, compounded by an unpleasant scent. The aerosol application was found overwhelming compared to the liquid spray form.
Reverie Milk Anti-Frizz Leave-in Nourishing Treatment ($44): This cream, presented in a stylish glass bottle with a botanical scent, claims to protect up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Though it functioned adequately, users found more cost-effective alternatives.
Sutra Heat Guard Heat Protector ($18): This light, pump-spray product had minimal scent, aimed at using on dry hair. Its effectiveness was similar to Briogeo’s Farewell Frizz, as hair remained challenging to style even after several high-temperature passes.
Chi 44 Iron Guard ($19): Known for its frizz-taming capability and new Botanical Bliss scent, this product left a sticky residue on appliances and hands despite providing satisfactory heat protection.
Sutra Heat Guard Blowout Cream ($24): Although associated with a reputable flat iron brand, this cream didn’t meet expectations, leaving hair dry post-application despite claims of heat protection and reduced drying time.
Milk_Shake Lifestyling Thermo-Protector ($19): While Milk_Shake products are generally favored, this aerosol spray was noted for drying out hair and increasing frizz without delivering the promised shine.
FoxyBae Cool AF Heat Protectant + Biotin ($16): This pump spray offered a cheerful design and was usable on both wet and dry hair. However, its effectiveness was limited, and it left hair greasy when applied dry.
- R+Co Chainmail Thermal Protection Styling Spray ($36): Praised for adding visible shine, this spray suffered from a non-specific aerosol nozzle and an overpowering cologne-like scent, making it less user-friendly.
