Pantene Pro-V's Thermal Heat Protectant Gave My Fine, Frizzy Hair a Major Boost

 We put Pantene Pro-V Heat Primer Thermal Heat Protectant to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review.

Right now I’m on a bit of a hair rebirth journey after bleaching my hair for a decade. I’m all about anything that preserves hair health and protects against heat damage. The Pantene Pro-V Heat Primer Thermal Heat Protectant seems to be a highly-rated drugstore gem, so I was excited to test it out. I don’t typically use a heat primer; however, I do use a leave-in cream treatment and for me, this ticked both boxes.

To see how my hair handled it, keep reading.

About My Hair: Fine and frizzy

I have fine, frizzy hair. Left untouched, it’s pretty unmanageable, so I like to use some sort of leave-in treatment. This heat primer seemed like a perfect product to add into my post-shower routine. Twice a week after I washed my hair, I applied it liberally to my wet hair from mid-shaft to ends.

The Feel & Scent: Lightweight, berry-floral

For a leave-in treatment, this product is surprisingly lightweight and creamy at the same time. It’s almost like a detangling spray and heat protectant rolled into one.

“It’s a lightweight spray that can be used on all hair types and is designed for those who use high heat (wands or irons) to style their hair,” explains Dr. Jeni Thomas, Pantene‘s principal scientist. It has a hydrating creamy quality that makes your wet hair feel slick and soft to the touch.

For me, one of the selling points of this formula is how addictive it smells. I was desperately trying to pinpoint the exact scent, but it’s not described anywhere online. Luckily, Thomas gave me some insider intel. “The fragrance is based on a fresh wild strawberry and raspberry accord blended with florals, musk, and warm vanilla,” she says.

Ingredients: Heat-protective formula

While the ingredient list doesn’t meet Byrdie’s Clean pledge, it is packed with heat-protecting properties. According to Dr. Thomas, the formula, containing polymers, castor oil, Pantene’s signature pro-vitamin B5, and protective antioxidants, works to help protect the hair against up to 450° heat. “Our studies have shown that this formula does an exceptionally good job of creating a fine, even layer of protection. This is critical to avoiding the hot spots that concentrate heat in specific areas and cause excessive heat damage,” she says.

The Results: Smooth and silky

Hands down, this product has helped calm my frizz and smooth out my hair. My hair felt softer and silkier post-blow dry and had a bit more sheen to it. As someone who uses hot tools more than they probably should, I was open to the idea of a heat protectant. I’m a fan of any product that is formulated to help protect my hair from high heat. After using it twice a week for about a month my hair felt healthy and strong overall. I’d like to think that has to do with incorporating this product into my routine.

The Value: A drugstore gem

As far as price goes, this one is exceptionally low. It’s a time-tested drugstore favorite that rings in for around $5. The smell is delicious and the feel is luxurious. You’ll want to use a good amount every time you blow dry, but even if you go through the bottle quickly, it’s still very affordable.

Similar Products: You've got options

Tresemme Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray ($7): This Tresemme pick imparts shine for a low price. Reviewers rave about how moisturizing it feels and how much it combats frizz.

Sexy Hair Style Protect Me Hot Tool Protection Spray ($20): This light-hold spray protects hair against heat and helps reduce breakage. Though it’s more expensive than Pantene, it’s great for all hair types, and the packaging is 100 percent recyclable.