Welcome to the Q&A. Each week we dedicate space to answering YOUR burning hair questions. Need some advice? Confused about a service or style? From cuts and color to tools and techniques, our experts are available to weigh in on all things hair-related. To submit a Q, send it here: questions@thehairbookonline.com.

Q. What are the potential damages of straightening irons and how do I keep my hair from dying out if I use one on a daily basis? Emma Janzen; Austin, TX

A. Anytime you apply heat hot enough to cook a chicken on your hair you create the potential for damage. Heat settings on some flat irons (as well as curling irons) can exceed 400 degrees. In this case, hotter is not necessarily better. Try to avoid heat settings that are too hot for you hair type. Fine wavy hair, for example, requires much less heat than excessively curly, thick hair. Before submitting your hair to a heated styling tool, always prep it first with a thermal protectant, like Redken Hot Sets 22 Thermal Setting Mist. Not only does a thermal protectant help prevent hair from scorching under the heat of your styling tool, it lends your finished style great shine and hold. Finally, if you do plan to use hot tools on a regular basis, try adding a deep conditioning treatment into your hair care regimen to further offset any dryness and damage done to your strands.