What result can prolonged heat styling have on hair health?

Prolonged heat styling can indeed lead to damage to the hair cuticle. The cuticle is the outermost layer of the hair strand, and it plays a critical role in protecting the inner layers and maintaining overall hair health. When hair is exposed to high temperatures from tools such as flat irons, curling wands, or blow dryers, the intense heat can cause the cuticle to break down, leading to dryness, brittleness, and a lack of shine. Over time, this damage can result in split ends and increased porosity, making it harder for the hair to retain moisture and leading to further deterioration of its structure.

In contrast, prolonged heat styling does not improve hair strength or elasticity, nor does it enhance vibrancy or promote faster hair growth. Understanding the effect of heat on hair helps in making informed decisions about styling practices to maintain healthy hair.