The ultimate way to protect your hair against damage from heat is to quit using hot styling tools completely. We know – not likely. So if you choose to continue styling your hair by using hot tools like curling and straightening irons, read on for a few easy tips to protect your tresses.

First, learn how to adjust the heat settings on your styling tools, because different hair textures require different temperature settings. In general, the finer your hair is, the lower the temperature should be — around 250 to 275 degrees. Conversely, coarse and wavy hair can withstand heat of up to 350 to 400 degrees.

You should also regularly apply a heat protectant to your hair before styling. Look for protectant products that have smoothing ingredients and plant proteins, as these protectants can help to prevent split ends, such as Redken Extreme Play Safe Heat Protection and Damage Repair Treatment.

Our last suggestion is to use a hair mask, such as a coconut oil-based mask, to help prevent damage —Glamour recommends the Chi Argan Oil Rejuvenating Masque. Deep conditioning masks can even reverse years of damage caused by heat styling tools.