While botanical hair oils are fantastic for moisturizing, nourishing, and strengthening the hair, they are not a replacement for heat protectant sprays and creams. Unlike the silicones, proteins, and polymers normally used for heat protection, the hair oils do not disperse the heat, and therefore, they cannot reduce as much of the damage. On top of that, oils can actually add weight and create drag, meaning that as you run the iron along the strands, it won’t move as smoothly, and end up causing more damage. The best way to use botanical oils in your hair care routine is either as a conditioning treatment before shampooing (especially heavier oils like coconut oil), or using them after the hair has already been styled, to add an extra shine (here it would be best to choose a lighter oil, like rosehip, argan, or grape seed oil).