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Best heat protection sprays, creams and oils for every hair type, tested by over 300 women
They're essentially SPF for your hair
Tested by Nora MerikFormer Beauty and Grooming Tester
It’s no secret that prevention is better than cure when it comes to our beauty routines. And having one of the best heat protection sprays on hand whenever you’re using a styling tool to achieve your desired look can save you a lot of hair masking in the long-run.
Because hair repair treatments and hydrating hair masks are all great for fighting frazzled lengths, but lowering the chance of frying your hair in the first place is always preferable.
If you’re anything like us, you'll use a hair dryer and/or straightener regularly on hair wash day – busy schedules mean turning up the heat to avoid leaving the house with a sopping wet mop. Which makes a good heat protection product all the more essential.
As they're such a crucial step in your styling routine, you don’t want to be relying on a dud. That’s where the Good Housekeeping Institute comes in. We’ve tested a wide range of the leading heat protection sprays, creams and oils with the help of our panel to see which are best for safe-guarding strands from those hot tools.
How we test heat protection sprays
The Good Housekeeping Institute sent out a a range of leading heat protectant products to our panel – over 300 of them! – to help us find the best on the market. After trialling the products for a minimum of two weeks, panellists gave us detailed feedback on everything they did and didn't like. They told us how effectively the product reduced frizz and flyaways, whether it added shine, helped with humidity-induced curling, and held their style in place.
They also rated the design of the packaging and how easy each product was to use. And we ran the test during the summer, so we could see how products fared during hot, humid weather.
To ensure we bring you all the buzziest new launches, we also asked our beauty writers and editors what their go-to heat protectant products are right now – you'll find those below under editors' picks.
K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil
K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil
Score: 87/100
K18 claims this oil not only protects but also helps repair damage, reduce frizz and improve shine – and it delivered across the board, according to our panel, no matter their hair type.
Testers found it easy to dispense and said a small amount of product went a long way. “You only need a couple of drops for mid-length hair, and it made the final effect sleeker, shinier and easier to dry and style,” said one pleased panel member.
“Having grey hair can mean it feels coarse and frizzy, but this genuinely brought back my healthy hair texture,” said another, while users reported softer locks that lasted all week. It also fared well in the humidity and kept hairstyles intact for longer without any need for hair spray. Where do we sign up?
Olaplex No.9 Protective Hair Serum
Score: 86/100
This nourishing hair serum has been formulated with Olaplex’s patented bonding technology to protect against heat damage and pollution, add shine and reduce static and tangles. Silicone-, phosphate- and paraben-free, it claims to protect hair against heat up to 232°C.
Our testers told us it did the trick, with everyone saying their hair felt less frizzy after use. “It left my hair really soft and hydrated, right through to the next wash day,” said one person.
“This serum is lightweight and made my lengths feel silky and look shiny. It also seemed to give my thin hair more body and texture after drying,” added another. So, if your hair is thin, dry or damaged and can’t cope with anything too thick or heavy, this serum could be the answer. Most testers also said it prevented their colour from fading.
ghd Bodyguard Heat Protect Spray
ghd Bodyguard Heat Protect Spray
Score: 86/100
If you’ve got super damaged strands, you may be better off opting for a cream or oil, but if your hair is relatively healthy, a convenient, easy-to-use spray could be the answer. Just take extra care combing it through the lengths, to ensure you cover every part of the hair shaft.
Perfect for using with messy hands (i.e. as part of your post-shower moisturising routine), this spray was an instant hit with our time-poor panellists. “It was convenient to use and didn’t saturate my hair, as the dispenser lets out a light mist,” said one, while another claimed: “This is the best heat protect spray I’ve used.”
The immediate effect was shinier, sleeker hair, even in the face of summer humidity, and longer-term, testers said it reduced breakage and helped their hair grow. All our testers praised its lightweight finish and frizz-fighting abilities. Unsurprisingly, given that it's been developed by ghd, it's a great choice for using with hair straighteners.
Rahua Heat Protection Shield
Rahua Heat Protection Shield
Score: 82/100
This leave-on spray uses citric acid to regulate the hair’s pH and ease frizz, alongside the brand’s signature plant complex to provide the highest level of heat protection. As well as protecting against damage, it also claims to nourish strands and boost hair’s elasticity.
Our testers were full of praise for this product, which they said “instantly” smoothed frizz, even before using heat. They also found it left their hair “sleek” and “non-sticky” and said their blow dry lasted longer than normal.
One person did complain that it made their hair greasier, more quickly, but the most of our testers said it felt lightweight and didn’t leave any residue. For those with finer hair, this is a good pick for fighting off heat without weighing strands down.
Aussie SOS Heat Saviour Conditioning Spray
Score: 82/100
If dehydrated tresses are a battle you’re tired of fighting, it could be time to look Down Under for your dream ‘do. Formulated with native Australian ingredients, which are naturally potent (all that sun and proximity to the equator works wonders on nutrition density), Aussie Haircare’s products have been keeping locks luscious for years.
And its instant heat saviour spray is no exception. Testers told us it smoothed down flyaways and made them easier to work with, while hair felt fresh thanks to the “tropical, fruity fragrance.” If you’re looking for a moisture-locking shield that transports you to a faraway paradise, this is the one. Plus, it kept hair feeling thick and healthy all day for most of our panel, although one said the effect wore off as the day went on. Can’t win ‘em all.
Curlsmith Miracle Shield 237ml
Curlsmith Miracle Shield 237ml
Score: 82/100
This spray has been developed to help repair the effects of sea water, chlorine and pollution, while also protecting from heat and UV damage that leads to breakage. In short, it covers all bases.
This makes it a good choice for those with curly hair, which is often more fragile and susceptible to damage and dryness – and particularly for those who can’t live without their straightening tools.
Testers said their hair felt healthy and their curls were more defined after use. It softened frizz and even those with typically dry lengths said their hair felt silky smooth as soon as they sprayed it on.
There was mixed feedback on the packaging, though. Some found the spray nozzle convenient, while others said it made it tricky to avoid the roots when applying, and some said it leaked. It may be one for the bedside table or bathroom shelf rather than carrying around in your gym bag then.
L'Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths No Wash Heat Slayer Spray
L'Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths No Wash Heat Slayer Spray
Score: 79/100
This spray is part of a range of products formulated to help prevent over-washing by prolonging your style for as long as possible – a nod to the humble dry shampoo. And according to our panellists, it works.
Almost everyone said their locks felt smoother and sleeker after use, while most agreed it also left them with healthier-feeling hair long-term. Many said they didn’t need to wash their hair as frequently either and there was less colour fade for those who dyed their 'do.
oribe Invisible Defence Universal Spray 175ml
oribe Invisible Defence Universal Spray 175ml
Score: 77/100
This one is guaranteed to bring a dose of chic to any shelf. Founded by Oribe (pronounced or-bay) Canales – a renowned celeb stylist who worked with ‘90s supermodels to achieve those big, bouncy 'dos– the packaging oozes sophistication and glam.
Enriched with edelweiss, watermelon and lychee flower extracts, along with plant-based collagen and vitamin B, the formulation doesn’t skimp on sumptuous, nourishing ingredients. Also aimed at detoxifying hair exposed to pollution at the end of the day, it does more than just protect from heat, although it appears to do that too, according to our panel.
Testers told us it calmed frizz and added a healthy helping of volume to their hair. It was also ultra-convenient to use, as you can apply it to damp or dry hair (many heat protectors work on damp hair only). Our panellists recommended using it more sparingly on dry hair than damp, though.
Phillip Kingsley Protecting Primer Heat Defence Spray
Phillip Kingsley Protecting Primer Heat Defence Spray
Score: 76/100
If you like your 'do to last past lunchtime, then don’t underestimate the importance of a style-retention product as part of your morning routine. This spray was formulated with both protection and reliable hold in mind. And we can tell.
Our panellists said it detangled typically knotty hair, smelt amazing, and felt lightweight and soft-to-the-touch on the lengths. They also told us their hair felt healthier and looked fuller after use, with a good boost of volume. A few found the cherry blossom scent slightly overpowering, so don’t go for this one if you prefer your products fragrance-free.
Only Curls Heat Protect Spray
Score: 75/100
Packed with strengthening protein and available in a handy mini size for throwing in your gym bag or taking away for the weekend, we love the convenience of this mist, especially for those with curls.
Our panellists were fans too. “I was so impressed with how this made my curls look! My ringlets were super tight and uniform, and my hair was perfectly protected and hydrated, despite the heat styling,” said one delighted tester.
Others loved that it was multi-use – great for spritzing before styling on wash day to protect their hair from heat damage and on day two or three to refresh curls between washes. We love a beauty multi-tasker.
OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Shine Heat Protect Spray
OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Shine Heat Protect Spray
Score: 75/100
OGX is known for its accessibly-priced yet effective hair treatments, and this spray is no exception. Not only does it protect against heat, but it also claims to help hair dry more quickly and add shine.
Testers told us it fought humidity and frizz with ease on days when their style would normally have fallen out in the heat. So, if you’re going on holiday and want to avoid a Monica Geller frizz situation, this could be the heat protector for you.
Editors' picks
Umberto Giannini Grow Long & Smooth Wonder Blow Dry Hair Spray
Umberto Giannini Grow Long & Smooth Wonder Blow Dry Hair Spray
Umberto Giannini’s products are largely designed to help people nourish, soften and define their waves. It’s no wonder then that this blow-dry spray is also great at combatting frizz.
It coats the hair cuticle in a moisture-repelling layer that not only protects against heat but also defends against the moisture in the air, which can cause flyaways. Essentially, it fights off frazzled-looking ends and shields against future heat damage, all at once. According to our editors, it’s a gym bag essential.
Not only does this primer do a fine job of keeping locks in good condition in the face of frazzling hair tools, but it smells absolutely gorgeous while doing it. And although the brand belongs to Adam Reed, a super-stylist to the stars, he wanted his professional products to come with an affordable price tag, so it doesn't cost the earth.
The spray will keep your hair looking healthy and turn heads when you walk into a room – honestly, it smells so good.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
We’ve tested products for over 100 years here at the Good Housekeeping Institute. From beauty electricals, such as the best LED face masks and hair straighteners, to cosmetics such as best hair growth serums and shampoos, we recommend only the products that have lived up to the claims.
Our beauty tester, Juliet Heaton, has a masters degree in Cosmetic science, so has a thorough knowledge of which ingredients work for each beauty query. In the lab, she’s put protocols in place for thousands of products, so knows the procedure for fair testing.
Our beauty writers, Florence Reeves-White and Madeleine Evans, then use the results from both the lab testing and feedback from our at-home panellists to help inform their review write ups – of which they have created thousands of.
Do heat protection sprays and creams actually work?
“Heat protectants create a barrier on your hair shaft,” explains hair stylist Jordanna Cobella. “They reduce heat damage from styling tools by preventing excessive moisture loss and structural changes in the hair proteins.
“It’s a very similar premise to sun protection for your skin and can drastically reduce the amount of damage the surface of your hair is exposed to.”
Andrew Plester, Education Director at Adam Reed salons, is passionate about the importance of these formulations. “If you aren’t convinced about the level of protection they deliver, just spray or spread some on your hand and see how long you can hold a hair dryer to it (from a fair distance),” he says. “You can feel the difference in how hot your hand feels when there’s heat protectant on there.
“For a slightly less scary test, try spraying a piece of bread with some of your go-to product,” he suggests. “Use a control slice too and you can literally see the difference in colour – one will be far more burnt or brown than the other after a minute in the toaster.”
Should I use a spray, cream or oil for my hair type?
“If you have thick or long hair, or your hair is bleached and damaged, opt for a cream,” Plester advises. “When combed through, they tend to give more coverage, but can sit a bit too heavy on thinner strands.”
“For shorter, finer hair, a spray may be the best solution,” he explains. “You don’t need anything too thick as you have less hair to cover and a lighter product will help with styling and volume, too.”
“Oils are a great multi-purpose product, allowing you to nourish your lengths while also shielding them from damage,” he adds. “Be careful when applying though – rub the oil into your hands so they’re covered and then spread your fingers, starting from the back at the base of your head and working out to the lengths.
“Too much oil at the front or on the lengths will make hair look greasy more quickly, and you want to go as long as possible between washes (within reason).”
How should I use heat protection spray?
“Put the heat protector on first, almost as a primer, and usually when the hair is damp,” Plester advises. “This gives it more time to take effect before your blow dry or styling session.
“In the same way as you’re usually advised to wait 15 minutes before stepping out into the sun when you apply SPF, heat protection takes a short period to sink in and form that all-important shield on your hair shaft.”
How to choose the right heat protection spray
These are the two key factors to consider when choosing the best heat protection spray.
- Hair type: Like every hair product, it’s important to match it with your hair type. If you have naturally curly hair, it’s a good idea to go for an oil-infused product to give your hair a larger dose of hydration, such as our winner, K18 Molecular Repair Oil. If you have thinner hair, opt for something that doesn't leave behind much residue, such as the Olaplex No.9 Bond Protector.
- Hair tool: Some sprays cater to specific heat-styling tools. For example, the Phillip Kingsley Protecting Primer Heat Defence Spray will help to extend the lifetime of your voluminous blow dry.
Should I apply heat protectant to wet or dry hair?
You should apply heat protectant spray to towel-dried hair before heat styling. You can reapply it if you’re retouching your hair once it is dry, though it’s a good idea to use sparingly, in case it leaves behind any residue.
How do you know the temperature level your heat protection spray offers?
Most brands will state the highest temperature the spray protects hair against on the packaging. Most of them will protect against heat up to 230ºc, so it’s worth checking the temperature range of your chosen heat styler.
The verdict on heat protection sprays
K18 tops the list on many of our haircare articles, and heat protection products is no exception. The Molecular Repair Hair Oil not only smooths wayward frizz, but it also protects from heat up to 232ºc. It worked especially well at softening our testers' coarse grey hair, too.
Only one mark below it is the brand’s known rival, Olaplex. Inside the No.9 Protective Hair Serum is a hardworking, protective, also patented, formula that works to keep your hair in the best condition possible.
A more affordable yet still protective option is the Aussie SOS Heat Defence, which not only defends against heat damage, but also detangles tresses to prevent breakage. At under £7 it’s a real hair steal.
Florence is our Senior Beauty Writer, specialising in expert-tested beauty and grooming reviews — from toothbrushes to the latest skincare launches. She’s committed to sharing recommendations for products that truly work and make people feel confident and healthy. Prior to this she was at Tropic Skincare, where she worked closely with biochemists in the lab, delving into the functions of each fresh, natural ingredient and conveying its efficacy to her audience in easy-to-digest terms.
With over five years’ experience in beauty and health journalism, Florence has written for ELLE, Women’s Fitness, Sister Magazine, National Geographic Traveller and many more, with a strong sustainability angle thread through much of her work.
When she isn’t packing for a trip away, working out, eating out or reading up on retinol serums, you’ll probably find her experimenting with her film camera and building her portfolio of portraits. Florence’s photography can be found at florencereeves-white.com, her Instagram is @florencereeveswhite and her twitter is @floreadsnwrites
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and Health & Wellness products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
