Those viral videos of people accidentally singeing off their hair are all fun and games—until you’re dealing with a case of your own burnt hair! Rest assured you’re not alone and that your hair will grow back. While you not-so-patiently wait for your mane to return to its former glory, there are a handful of remedies you can try to help your strands mimic their pre-burnt appearance.
For some expert insight into dealing with burned hair, we reached out to stylist Amanda Epstein. She was eager to share some hot tips (pun intended) on what to do when you burn your hair and which products are best for burned strands.
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What Should You Do If You Accidentally Burn Your Hair?
Whether you left your hair wrapped around your curling iron a bit too long, went a little overboard with the flat iron, or had a mishap with the blow dryer, try not to panic.
Next, Epstein insists on calling your stylist before trying to take burnt hair matters into your own hands. Since burned hair can’t be repaired, your stylist can help conceal some of the damage with some strategic cutting. Also, your stylist can help you come up with a game plan for how to save your remaining hair.
While waiting for your appointment, there are a few things you can do to conceal the damage and care for your strands. Epstein says to start with a seriously nourishing hair mask.
“I would do a mask such as the Biolage HydraSource Deep Treatment Pack Multi Use Hair Mask,” she says. Another option is Kérastase Resistance Masque Extentioniste Hair Mask for Damaged Hair, which is formulated with creatine to strengthen strands, maleic acid to seal the cuticle, and ceramides to smooth and soften.
“[Also], keep any source of heat far away,” notes Epstein. She also suggests skipping hairstyles that might draw attention to uneven spots. Opt for loose, heatless hairstyles and hair accessories that won’t cause any extra snagging or friction.
Good hair day by @dreamhairbycelaa.
Does Burned Hair Grow Back?
Yes, burnt hair absolutely grows back. Patience is key, though, because head hair grows at a rate of about six inches per year. The hair will grow from the roots at the scalp, and with time our burned strands will be a memory (and perhaps one you can even laugh about).
Good hair day by @mindybusch.hair.stylist.
How to Get Rid of Burnt Hair Smells?
There’s nothing quite like the smell of burned hair, and that scent is decidedly dreadful! The best way to get rid of the smell is to shampoo and condition your hair. Having your stylist clip away some of the singed ends can also help. If you still notice the smell of burned hair lingering, try a hair perfume.
A flat iron for fast, smooth styling on all hair types. All in one hair protector that protects your hair from heat, fortifies the strength of your hair and reduces heat damage.
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Extreme Play Safe Heat Protection and Damage Repair Hair Treatment
How Can You Prevent Accidentally Burning Your Hair?
Though heat styling will always cause some hair damage, there are a few ways to avoid completely scorching your strands. Step one is to use an innovative tool that’s not going to scorch your strands. For example, L'Oréal Professionnel Steampod Hair Straightener + Curling Iron features intelligent heat control, double technology plates that won't snag, and a revolutionary steam delivery to help smooth hair.
Epstein adds that you should also never skimp on a heat protectant! An excellent option is Redken Extreme Play Safe Heat Protection and Damage Repair Hair Treatment. Not only does the formula make for a more efficient blowout, but it also helps reduce the look of split ends by 70 percent and fortifies the hair for less breakage.
Lastly, be mindful of the heat setting on your hot tools. The highest temp isn’t intended for all hair types; the finer your hair, the lower the setting should be. If you’re unsure which heat setting is best for your hair type and texture, start with a lower setting and work your way up.
“I suggest keeping your hot tool under 350 degrees Fahrenheit and do not keep the hot tool on the hair for longer than 10 seconds,” Epstein suggests.
Total Results So Long Damage Break Fix Reconstructing Lotion
A leave-in hair treatment that strengthens and repairs damaged hair.
Hydra Source Deep Treatment Pack Multi Use Hair Mask
A vegan, moisturizing deep treatment hair mask for dry, dull or damaged hair.
Resistance Masque Extentioniste Hair Mask for Damaged Hair
A strengthening mask for weakened and damaged hair.
What are the Best Products to Help Care for Burned Hair?
A salon professional—and a bit of time—can help restore your strands to their pre-burnt glory. Meanwhile, incorporating some salon-quality hair care products into your regimen can help your hair look shiny, healthy, and beautiful.
Start by swapping your regular shampoo and conditioner for a hair care system formulated for damaged hair. For example, the Matrix Total Results So Long Damage set is a three-step system that includes shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. It helps you realize your long-hair goals by reviving the look of weak and dried-out strands. The range is formulated with ceramides to boost shine and strength, which helps hair grow longer.
If the heat damage has left your strands feeling extra parched, Epstein also recommends using a nourishing hair mask to your routine. The Biolage HydraSource Deep Treatment Pack Multi Use Hair Mask and Kérastase Resistance Masque Extentioniste Hair Mask for Damaged Hair—both mentioned above—are two solid choices.
With Epstein's expert tips in mind, you'll know exactly what to do if you or a friend is dealing with burnt hair.
Looking for more expert tips on heat-damaged hair? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
Total Results So Long Damage Break Fix Reconstructing Lotion
A leave-in hair treatment that strengthens and repairs damaged hair.
Hydra Source Deep Treatment Pack Multi Use Hair Mask
A vegan, moisturizing deep treatment hair mask for dry, dull or damaged hair.
Resistance Masque Extentioniste Hair Mask for Damaged Hair
A strengthening mask for weakened and damaged hair.
Steampod Hair Straightener + Curling Iron
A flat iron for fast, smooth styling on all hair types.
Extreme Play Safe Heat Protection and Damage Repair Hair Treatment
All in one hair protector that protects your hair from heat, fortifies the strength of your hair and reduces heat damage.
Hydra Source Deep Treatment Pack Multi Use Hair Mask
A vegan, moisturizing deep treatment hair mask for dry, dull or damaged hair.
Resistance Masque Extentioniste Hair Mask for Damaged Hair
A strengthening mask for weakened and damaged hair.
