As temperatures climb and the sun beats down, summer becomes one of the harshest seasons for your hair. UV exposure, humidity, and heat styling can strip your strands of moisture, leaving hair dry, frizzy, and vulnerable to breakage. That’s why a high-quality heat protectant is a non-negotiable essential for your summer routine—especially if you plan to blow dry, flat iron, or even step outside without a hat.
But not all heat protectants are created equal—and the key is choosing one tailored to your hair’s specific needs.
What Does Summer Heat Do to Your Hair?
Increased sun exposure, frequent washing, chlorine, and saltwater all take a toll. You may notice:
- Dry, brittle strands
- Frizz and flyaways
- Lack of shine
- Split ends
- Faded color
- Weakened curls or waves
This happens because the cuticle (your hair’s protective outer layer) is compromised, allowing moisture to escape and external stressors to enter. Daily heat styling—like blowouts or flat ironing—only magnifies the damage if your hair isn’t properly protected.
What Makes a Great Heat Protectant?
A top-tier heat protectant should do more than just shield from heat—it should treat your hair at the same time. Look for a product that:
- Protects up to 450°F
- Smooths and softens hair
- Adds moisture and shine
- Provides anti-frizz and humidity control
- Strengthens from within
This is where Kérastase’s Thermique range shines. These lightweight leave-in creams double as heat protectants and nourishing treatments, each designed for a different hair type or concern.
Which Thermique Is Right for You?
1. Nectar Thermique – For Curly, Dry, or Frizz-Prone Hair
If your curls feel dehydrated or frizzy—especially during summer humidity—Nectar Thermique is your go-to. This anti-frizz blow-dry milk is ideal for medium to thick dry hair. It:
- Protects from heat styling
- Delivers deep moisture and nutrition
- Helps define curls without weighing them down
- Boosts smoothness and shine
- Reinforces and strengthens the hair fiber
Perfect for curly girls who want to maintain bounce and definition while protecting their hair from heat damage.
2. Ciment Thermique – For Weakened or Damaged Hair
Been overdoing it with color, bleach, or heat styling? Ciment Thermique is a heat-protecting, strengthening cream designed to fortify fragile hair. Ideal for damaged or sensitized hair, it:
- Acts as a leave-in conditioner
- Smooths the cuticle and prevents breakage
- Boosts internal strength
- Delivers heat protection up to 450°F
- Helps rebuild weakened strands over time
Some curlies have also found Ciment Thermique beneficial, especially when managing damage without sacrificing style.
Looking for Curl-Specific Heat Protection?
Kérastase’s Curl Manifesto line includes two standout products that offer moisture, definition, and protection—all essential in the summer.
Crème de Jour Fondamentale Hair Cream
A lightweight leave-in treatment that:
- Moisturizes intensely without heaviness
- Controls frizz all day
- Offers heat protection up to 450°F
- Strengthens and restores elasticity
- Enhances curl pattern and shine
Formulated with manuka honey and ceramide, this cream is your best friend if you heat-style your curls but want to maintain softness and bounce.
Refresh Absolu Leave-In Spray
Designed to revive curls between wash days, this hydrating spray:
- Adds moisture and definition
- Controls frizz and flyaways
- Leaves curls radiant and soft
- Can be layered over other styling products
While not a primary heat protectant, it helps extend the life of your style and preserve hydration throughout long, hot days.
How to Use Your Thermique or Curl Product
- Apply to towel-dried hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends.
- Comb through to ensure even distribution.
- Style with heat as desired.
- For refreshers like Refresh Absolu, use on dry hair between washes.
Final Takeaway
Summer hair care is about protection and prevention. Don’t let the season leave your strands brittle and fried. Choose a heat protectant that aligns with your hair’s unique needs—and let your styling routine double as self-care.
Whether you’re fighting frizz, protecting color, or preserving your curl pattern, there’s a Kérastase heat protectant ready to support your summer hair goals.
Ask your stylist which formula is right for you—or stop by the salon and let us customize your routine.