Best Heat Protectants Under $20

It seems like everything we do to achieve shiny, perfect hair in the short term — blow-drying, curling, flat ironing — winds up creating damaged, frizzy, unhealthy hair in the long term. There’s nothing worse than seeing the steam coming from your tools and inhaling the scent of singeing, burning hair. Yes, it’s all in the name of turning frizz or lifelessness into flawless waves that are full of body, or pin-straight strands that stay that way. Sure, we can just get a haircut to snip off and erase the damage — but what if we didn’t have to? Enter these 17 heat protectants, ones that actually work. They replenish moisture, defend against frying, and put the bounce back into wilted strands. They'll also enhance shine and leave hair smelling flowery or clean (and not at all burnt). Oh, and every single one of these costs less than $20 (some a lot less).

April 10, 2018