What can be used to protect the hair from excessive heat during the pressing process?

Using hair serum is effective in protecting hair from excessive heat during the pressing process because it typically contains ingredients that coat the hair strands, providing a barrier against heat damage. Hair serums often have silicones and other humectants that not only help to smooth the hair, reducing frizz and enhancing shine, but also work to shield the hair from high temperatures produced by styling tools like flat irons or curling wands. This protective layer helps to minimize moisture loss and structural damage that can occur with heat exposure.

In contrast, while hair gel and leave-in conditioner may offer some benefits to hair texture and manageability, they do not provide the same level of heat protection as a serum. Hair gel mainly focuses on hold and styling, potentially leading to a stiffer texture, while leave-in conditioners might not be formulated specifically with heat protection in mind, though they can contribute to overall hair health and moisture. Water, on the other hand, can actually cause hair to become more vulnerable to heat damage, as applying heat to wet hair can lead to steaming and breakage. Thus, hair serum is the optimal choice for safeguarding hair during heated styling practices.