Why is heat protectant often recommended before thermal styling?

A thermal/heat protectant product is often applied before using hot styling tools to help reduce heat damage to the hair by providing a protective barrier and helping distribute heat more evenly. Repeated high-heat styling without protection can dry out and weaken the hair, leading to breakage and dullness. Recommending and using heat protectant reflects good hair-care practice and client education. Understanding the purpose of heat protectant connects hairstyling technique with maintaining healthy hair, a theme the exam reinforces.