Welcome back to our Legacy Stylist Blog Series, where Zandi K’s own Amber Hamilton shares expert advice to help you get the most out of your hair care routine. Today, we’re tackling a mistake that many people make when styling their hair—turning the heat up too high on their curling irons, flat irons, or blow dryers.
If you’ve ever struggled with curls that fall flat, styles that don’t last, or hair that feels fried and brittle, your heat settings could be the culprit. Let’s talk about why low and slow is the way to go when it comes to heat styling!
Cranking Up the Heat? Think Again!
Many people assume that if their curls aren’t holding or their style isn’t lasting, they need more heat. But actually, too much heat can make things worse!
🔥 Think of it like baking a cake. Would you crank the oven to 500°F to speed up the process? No way! Your cake would burn on the outside while staying raw in the middle. The same thing happens to your hair when you blast it with excessive heat—it might look styled on the surface, but the structure underneath isn’t properly set, which can cause styles to fall flat or become uneven.
The "Low and Slow" Rule
One of the most valuable lessons hairstylists learn in school is "low and slow." This means:
✔️ Lower temperatures = less damage and healthier hair
✔️ Slower, controlled passes = better heat distribution and longer-lasting styles
Instead of rushing through your styling routine with scorching-hot tools, turn the temperature down and take your time. This allows heat to penetrate evenly, setting your style properly without frying your hair.
How to Find the Right Heat Setting for Your Hair Type
✅ Fine or Damaged Hair → 250-300°F
✅ Medium or Normal Hair → 300-375°F
✅ Thick or Coarse Hair → 375-410°F (but never max out your tool!)
💡 Pro Tip: Always use a heat protectant, like Aveda’s nutriplenish™ leave-in conditioner, to shield your strands from damage while keeping them hydrated and frizz-free.
Save Your Hair & Perfect Your Style
Next time you reach for your hot tools, slow your roll and turn the heat down. You’ll protect the integrity of your hair and achieve smoother, longer-lasting results.
Want more expert styling tips? Stay tuned for the next post in Amber’s Legacy Stylist Blog Series!
💇♀️ Book an appointment with Amber today and let a Legacy Stylist transform your hair!
