Celebrity Stylist Amit Thakur Explains Why Damp Hair and Straighteners Don’t Mix

We’ve all been guilty of it, running a straightener over hair that’s still a little wet, thinking, “This will be fine.” According to celebrity stylist Amit Thakur, this everyday habit can cause serious damage known as the bubble hair effect, leaving hair weaker and more prone to breakage than you might expect. The celebrity hairstylist behind the looks of Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif, and Kiara Advani recently shared an Instagram video addressing a crucial hair tip: never straighten damp hair.

In the video, he explains that applying extreme heat to wet strands can cause hair breakage, split ends, and frizz. A problem that often becomes noticeable only after repeated damage. Think of it as ironing a wet silk saree: the results are uneven, fragile, and far from the polished finish you imagined.

How to Straighten Hair Without Causing Damage

Why damp hair is a no-go

“Using a straightener on damp hair is a complete no-go. When you use heat on wet hair or damp hair, the water inside the hair strands boils and turns into steam. And since the moisture has nowhere to escape, it expands into the hair, literally blasting tiny holes through the hair shaft. And this is what we call the bubble hair effect,” said Amit Thakur. 

He continues, “It literally weakens the protein structure of your hair, making it more brittle, prone to breakage, and also harder to repair. Now, the long-term effect of this can be irreversible damage. And that is why I always advise drying your hair 100% before using any curling iron or straightening machine. And most importantly, do not forget heat protection. Your hair deserves better, so stop frying it.”

Even if you’ve straightened wet hair before, understanding the “bubble hair effect” helps explain why your strands feel frizzier, weaker, or more brittle over time. Protecting your hair now ensures it stays glossy and healthy for the long run.

Prep right before straightening

Before you even think about running a straightener through your strands, preparation is key. “Blow-dry your hair completely before using any straightening tools,” said Amit. Doing so ensures that the water trapped in your strands doesn’t turn into steam, preventing the dreaded bubble hair effect.

He also advises applying a heat-protectant serum or spray to shield the hair shaft from direct heat. It helps maintain moisture and keeps the hair cuticle smooth. Sectioning your hair into smaller parts is another small but powerful trick. By straightening piece by piece, you reduce repeated passes with the iron, lowering the risk of breakage and ensuring an even, glossy finish.

Tips for a sleek, damage-free hair

Once your hair is fully prepped, technique makes all the difference. Thakur suggests using a straightener with an adjustable temperature, starting low for fine or fragile hair. Straighten slowly and deliberately; rushing the process increases friction, heat stress, and damage.

He also recommends finishing with a light serum or hair oil to seal the cuticle and lock in shine. “It’s about working with your hair, not forcing it,” he explains. Patience, the right tools, and proper sectioning are what separate healthy, glossy strands from brittle, fried hair.