Ask the expert

Hesitant about heat-styling your hair?

Professionnel Artistic Educator

Abigail Butler explains why we should swap our regular hot tools for the power of steam

Now in its fourth generation, the L’Oréal Steampod has amassed a cult following of consumers and professionals who laud the tool for its key feature: steam. The brand’s research reveals that the use of steam causes 80% less damage than standard heat tools, and promises that the Steampod can be used to achieve any hairstyle on any hair type. A big claim, you might say. But Abigail Butler, stylist and L’Oréal Professionnel Artistic Educator, assures us that this isn’t just a gimmick.

FIRST THOUGHTS… A STRAIGHTENER EMITTING STEAM, SURELY THAT WILL MAKE CURLY HAIR POOFY?

No, not at all! It’s just like an ordinary straightener, but the results on your hair are twice as smooth compared to other heated tools. Plus, the styling products like the L’Oréal Professionnel Metal Detox that pair with the Steampod, help to create a frizz-free and humidity resistant finish, so having poofy hair will be the last thing you need to worry about!

WHY IS STEAM BETTER THAN REGULAR HEATED TOOLS? When working with curly and textured hair, moisture is the key to protecting the hair and keeping it hydrated. When adding steam to your heated tool, it puts the moisture back into the hair strands rather than taking it away.

CAN THE L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL STEAMPOD 4 BE USED MORE OFTEN TO STRAIGHTEN AND CURL HAIR?

The great thing about the Steampod is that there is up to 80% less damage to the hair compared to other hair straighteners. What’s reassuring is that, if you choose to straighten or curl your hair more, you can do this without worrying about causing extra damage.

REVERSION IS THE BANE OF EVERY CURLY GIRL’S LIFE. WHAT GO-TO TIPS DO YOU HAVE FOR USING THE STEAMPOD 4?

Always start with clean hair. If you’re not used to heated tools, know that you can have confidence in using something that adds value to your hair, rather than takes away. Make sure you prep freshly washed hair with a heat protectant or serum before applying any form of heat. This will help to seal your cuticles and give a silky appearance to your hair for longer. If you have to reapply heat because of reversion, always top up on moisture.

Is It Safe To Use On Problematic

SCALPS?

The Steampod is no different to using any other straightening tool, and is safe to use on all hair types. If you find you have a problematic scalp, I recommend seeking medical advice first from a dermatologist or trichologist who can recommend what is best for you.

WHAT RESULTS DO YOU GET WHEN THE DETACHABLE COMB IS USED?

The comb attachment helps to give a more even finish when straightening. It allows the heat to penetrate and smooth every strand rather than just straightening the top and bottom layer of that section. It’s perfect if you want to achieve a silk press finish.

WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR PREVENTING BREAKAGE CAUSED BY HEAT STYLING?

Firstly, always use a heat protector. It’s important to protect your hair from UV rays and weather conditions that can dry your hair, as this can impact its condition when using direct heat. Remember to frequently apply deep intensive treatments as this will help to recondition, add moisture to your hair and prepare your hair for styling.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN USING THE L’OREAL PROFESSIONNEL STEAMPOD 4 AND A SILK PRESS?

There’s no real difference between the silk press and using a Steampod. A silk press is a technique used to smooth the hair using a two-step process, which consists of blow-drying the hair straight, then straightening the hair to give a silky glass-like look. You will, however, need to use a lot of heat for this technique. The Steampod does the same thing, but you can straighten the hair three-times faster with results that are twice as smooth, inflicting 80% less damage to hair.

For a chance to win a L’Oreal Professionnel Steampod 4, visit spellmagazine.co.uk