Reducing heat-related damage does not necessarily require giving up styling tools entirely.
How to Protect Your Hair From Heat Styling
Repeated exposure to high temperatures can affect hair structure and feel and may increase dryness or breakage.
Use the lowest effective temperature, avoid repeatedly passing a hot tool over the same section, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for both the appliance and any heat-protection product.
Previously coloured, chemically treated or damaged hair may require a more cautious approach.
Where practical, reducing the frequency of heat styling can also lower cumulative exposure.
See A Simple Routine for Dry and Damaged Hair for the broader care routine.