Blowdryers And Cologne: A Scent-Ruining Combination?

The use of a blow dryer on cologne is an interesting topic. While there is no definitive answer, it is important to note that cologne is composed of alcohol and oils, which may react to high temperatures. Some people have experimented with using cologne as a fabric softener, but the results have been mixed. Some claim that the scent of the cologne is barely noticeable after using a blow dryer, while others suggest that it may cause oil stains or be a fire hazard. It is recommended to be cautious when exposing cologne to high heat, as it could potentially ruin the fragrance.

Heat damage to cologne

Heat can indeed damage cologne. The top notes of a fragrance are the most volatile, and these are the first to be affected by high temperatures. The heat from a blow dryer can cause the alcohol in the cologne to evaporate more quickly, which can change the scent and make it smell more alcoholic.

The heat from a blow dryer can also damage the perfume oil in cologne, and the alcohol may react with other ingredients, causing further changes to the scent. It is therefore not recommended to use cologne as a fabric softener, as one person's experiment with putting cologne-soaked clothes in a dryer showed that the scent faded faster, and the cologne smelled slightly more alcoholic.

Additionally, the high heat from a blow dryer can cause the cologne to become more liquid, which could lead to staining.

To avoid heat damage to cologne, it is best to store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or any other heat sources. Exposing cologne to high temperatures for extended periods can cause the fragrance to deteriorate and lose its potency over time.

If you are looking to add fragrance to your laundry, it is recommended to use an unscented dryer sheet or small towel and spray it with cologne before putting it in the dryer with your clothes. This way, you can control the amount of cologne used and avoid direct contact with heat.

Hair dryers vs air-drying

Overview

We all want salon-worthy hair, but few of us have the time or money to visit hairstylists regularly for a professional blowout. So, most of us rely on our trusty hairdryers to get the job done. But is blow-drying your hair bad?

The Science Behind Hair-Drying

Let's take a closer look at the science behind hair-drying and the potential impact on your locks.

Hair Anatomy 101

Your hair strand consists of three layers:

• Cuticle: The outer layer made of overlapping scales that are closely aligned in straight hair and loosely arranged in curly or coily hair.
• Cortex: The middle layer composed of keratin proteins and structural lipids.
• Medulla: The innermost layer, usually present in coarse hair, made of loosely packed cells.

Additionally, the Cell Membrane Complex (CMC) acts as the glue that holds these hair cells together.

Contrary to popular belief, blow-drying your hair is not necessarily bad. A 2011 study published in the *Annals of Dermatology* found that heat damage primarily occurs on the hair cuticles rather than within the fibers. So, if you have healthy cuticles, your hair is less likely to suffer after blow-drying.

However, it's important to note that there is a limit to how much heat your cuticles can withstand. According to a study in the *International Journal of Cosmetic Science*, heat settings above 284 degrees Fahrenheit cause irreversible damage to the cuticles, leading to frizz and split ends. At extremely high temperatures of 392 degrees Fahrenheit, you can expect significant hair damage.

Air-Drying vs Blow-Drying

Now, you might be thinking that air-drying is a safer alternative to blow-drying. However, scientific research suggests otherwise.

Surprisingly, the 2011 study on hair damage found that air-drying damaged the CMC in the hair fibers, while blow-drying did not. This is because when hair gets wet, the hair shafts swell, including the delta layer of the CMC.

Air-drying takes a long time, and during this period, the CMC remains exposed to water and stays swollen. This prolonged exposure to moisture can be more damaging to your hair than using a hairdryer.

Tips for Safe Blow-Drying

If you want to minimize hair damage while blow-drying, follow these science-based tips:

• Condition First: Use a conditioner in the shower to improve the look and feel of your hair, making it more manageable. Conditioners absorb into the hair cuticles and can even penetrate the cortex layer, reducing friction and enhancing shine.
• Don't Blow-Dry Sopping Wet Hair: Avoid blow-drying your hair immediately after showering. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel, and detangle with a wide-toothed comb before blow-drying.
• Use a Silicone-Based Heat Protectant: Apply a silicone-based heat protectant to evenly distribute heat across the hair shaft and reduce the likelihood of bubbling inside the fibers.
• Mind the Heat Setting: Lower temperatures are better for your hair. Stick to a relatively low heat setting of around 140 degrees Fahrenheit when blow-drying.
• Attach a Diffuser: If you have loose waves, curly hair, or tight coils, use a diffuser attachment to better control the airflow and achieve your desired hairstyle without additional heat styling.

In summary, while constant exposure to high heat can damage your hair, blow-drying, when done correctly, may be less harmful than air-drying. By following the simple tips outlined above, you can promote the appearance of healthy hair and make the most of your blow-drying routine.

Heat settings and hair damage

Heat plays a significant role in the health of your hair. The higher the temperature, the more damage your hair is susceptible to. Using a blow dryer on a high heat setting can cause harm to your hair, as temperatures over 300°F (149°C) will begin to alter the keratin structure of your hair, leading to weaker hair that has lost its elasticity and is more prone to damage.

To prevent heat damage, it is recommended to keep the heat setting of your blow dryer between 150°C and 180°C. Additionally, maintaining a distance of at least 5 inches between the blow dryer and your hair can reduce the intensity of direct heat on any specific section of your hair.

It is also important to note that any sort of heat can cause some level of damage to your hair. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventive measures, such as using heat protection sprays or serums, to minimise the potential damage.

By following these heat setting guidelines and utilising preventive measures, you can help maintain the health and appearance of your hair while using a blow dryer.

Hair anatomy and heat damage

The hair is made up of three layers, and all of them are susceptible to heat damage. The outermost layer, known as the cuticle, is composed of overlapping shingle-like cells that protect the hair from external factors. Interestingly, the cuticle is the most heat-resistant part of the hair, with strong, cross-linked proteins that act as a built-in heat protectant. However, even this layer can break down when exposed to temperatures exceeding 482°F/250°C.

The everyday use of hot tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can cause the cuticle cells to lift and separate, leaving the deeper layers of hair more vulnerable to damage. High temperatures can also cause the cuticle to open up, allowing natural moisture to escape and making the hair drier and more prone to damage.

Under the cuticle is the hair's cortex, which is composed of interwoven polypeptide chains that form larger, rope-like structures. This is where the most severe form of heat damage, known as denaturation, occurs. Denaturation is the breakdown of the protein structure of the hair, specifically the keratin proteins. Exposure to temperatures of 392°F/200°C or higher causes these proteins to lose their strength and elasticity, leading to hair that is weak, dry, and brittle.

The hair's inner layer, or medulla, is the final layer affected by heat damage. This layer is not always present, and its structure is not well understood. However, heat can cause damage to the medulla, contributing to the overall degradation of the hair's structure.

To prevent heat damage, it is crucial to take a holistic approach to hair care. This includes using heat protection products, avoiding maximum heat settings, and limiting the use of hot tools. Allowing hair to air-dry or using a blow dryer with a lower temperature setting can also help reduce the risk of heat damage. Additionally, regular haircuts can prevent further damage and stop split ends from travelling up the hair shaft.

Heat protectants

When choosing a heat protectant, look for products that offer high-temperature protection, preferably up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, opt for products with hydrating ingredients, especially if you have natural textures or curly hair. This will help provide your hair with extra moisture and reduce drag while styling.

• Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray: This formula doubles as a hair gloss and heat protectant, providing silky smooth strands while protecting your hair from heat damage.
• Living Proof Restore Perfecting Spray: A versatile heat protectant that also acts as a leave-in detangler, UV protectant, and nourisher for all hair types, including natural textures and curly hair.
• Chi Total Protect: A budget-friendly option that provides heat and UV protection, strengthens strands, and nourishes your hair without weighing it down.
• Briogeo Blow Dry Perfection & Heat Protectant Crème: Perfect for frizz control, this cream is enhanced with rosehip, coconut, and argan oils to soften and smooth strands while protecting from heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Olaplex No.9 Bond Protector: Specifically designed for damaged hair, this serum protects from heat up to 450 degrees, detangles, tames flyaways, and even helps set your hairstyle.
• Moroccanoil Perfect Defense Heat Protectant: Ideal for thick hair, this protectant is formulated with argan oil to strengthen, nourish, and combat frizz, leaving your hair soft and luscious.
• Mizani Heat Screen Hair Protectant Spray: A great option for curly hair, this spray is formulated with rose water to tame frizz, soften strands, and add shine without feeling greasy or heavy.
• Gisou Heat Protecting Spray: This lightweight formula is perfect for fine hair, as it protects from heat and strengthens strands without weighing them down.
• Kérastase Resistance Ciment Thermique Heat Protecting Cream: A hydrating and color-safe formula, perfect for blow-drying and protecting color-treated hair from heat damage.
• DpHue Color Fresh Thermal Protection Spray: A lightweight formula suitable for all hair types, this spray protects hair from heat up to 450 degrees while preserving color and adding shine.

Frequently asked questions