Thermal Caps for Hair: Deep Conditioning Made Easy
What is thermal haircare?
Thermal haircare is the practice of adjusting the temperature of your hair products or tools to enhance the overall effects of your hair treatment. When heat is applied, the hair cuticle opens slightly, allowing conditioners, oils and masks to penetrate more deeply. A Lava Cap (which falls into the "thermal caps for hair" category, but is sometimes referred to as a heat cap for hair) makes this process simple to achieve from the comfort of your own home.
Unlike sitting under a hooded dryer or booking expensive salon treatments, our Lava Cap thermal caps for hair are portable, affordable and easy to use. You simply heat the cap, wear it over your hair, and then relax as it transforms your usual hair mask into a powerful hair spa treatment.
Ways to incorporate thermal power into your haircare
Thermal Caps for Hair - Temperature Adjustable Caps
Thermal hair caps come in different forms depending on how you decide to adjust the temperature.
Microwavable Heat Caps
The most common type is the microwavable thermal cap – which is the heating mechanism currently recommended for the original flaxseed-filled Lava Cap. You pop it in the microwave for a short time, and the flaxseed or gel inside heats up evenly. The warmth stays consistent for around 15 minutes and can be reheated any number of times, which is perfect for deep conditioning sessions.
Freezer Chilled Hair Caps
Some thermal hair caps can also be chilled in the freezer. The cool cap soothes the scalp after a colour treatment, reduces irritation, and calms inflammation. This dual functionality makes thermal caps versatile all year round. Lava Cap is suitable for home freezing – just place it in a plastic freezer bag before placing in the freezer for a couple of hours and once ready, enjoy a new sensation!
What are the benefits of using thermal caps for hair and how can they enhance your haircare routine?
Heat is good for low porosity hair
Low porosity hair struggles to absorb moisture because the cuticles are tightly closed. A thermal hair cap helps by lifting the cuticle slightly, so your conditioner or oil can get inside rather than just sitting on the surface.
Scalp stimulation
Warmth increases blood flow to the scalp, which in turn delivers more nutrients to the hair follicles. Over time, this can help create the right environment for stronger, healthier hair growth.
Time poor? Speed up your hair treatment process!
For anyone with a busy lifestyle, a thermal cap is a time-saver. Treatments that might normally require an hour can work effectively in just 10-15 minutes with a gentle heat.
Hair growth support
While thermal caps do not make hair grow overnight, they improve scalp health, blood circulation and product absorption, which all support healthy growth over time.
Hair treatment enhancement
A thermal cap can boost the performance of almost any treatment: deep conditioners, protein masks, oil blends or even herbal rinses. Think of it as a power button for your favourite products.
How to use a thermal cap while relaxing
Products, Tools & Accessories You’ll Need
To get the most from your thermal cap session, have the following ready:
- Your Lava Cap
- A wide-tooth comb to distribute product evenly
- A shower cap or plastic wrap to keep things neat
- Your chosen mask, oil or conditioner
- A towel to protect your clothes
Things You Can Do To Boost Your Thermal Hair Treatment
- Use sectioning clips to make sure product reaches every strand
- Complete a brief scalp massage across your entire scalp for improved circulation before applying the cap – this is a great moment to use your waterproof scalp massager
How long to leave thermal heat cap on hair?
The sweet spot is 20 to 30 minutes, but you can extend to an hour if you’d prefer a longer treatment and if this is suitable based on the product in your hair.
Ideal thermal cap temperature
Gentle heat is all you need. Around 40-45°C is enough to temporarily soften hydrogen bonds in the hair and allow deep conditioning without causing damage.
Things You Can Do for a Calming Self-Care Routine
- Read your bible for 30 minutes: A grounding way to relax while your treatment works.
- Update your gratitude journal: Reflecting on positive things can improve both mood and mindset.
- Have a nap: The warmth of the cap is soothing, making it ideal for a short rest.
- Start your film or series: Turn your treatment into a mini spa-and-movie session.
The importance of rinsing with cool water
Rinsing your hair with cool water after shampooing or conditioning is a small step that makes a big difference, especially for high porosity hair. High porosity strands have gaps in the cuticle, which can make them prone to frizz and moisture loss. A final cool rinse helps to seal the hair cuticle, locking in hydration from your conditioner or treatment, and leaving hair smoother, shinier, and more manageable. It also reduces tangling and breakage, giving your strands a polished finish.
For low porosity hair, which naturally resists moisture absorption, a cool water rinse is equally important. After applying heat or a conditioning treatment, finishing with cooler water helps tighten the cuticle, ensuring that the benefits of your treatment stay inside the hair shaft rather than evaporating. This simple step maximises softness and shine while maintaining healthy, hydrated strands, making it an essential tip for anyone looking to protect their hair’s natural integrity.
You could also end your washday with a chilled herbal rinse for extra nourishment and the botanical benefits! Have you read our post a few DIY herbal hair rinse recipes?
Where to Buy Thermal Hair Caps in the UK?
If you are ready to level up your haircare, you can buy a thermal cap in the UK from Lava Cap; we offer thermal hair caps in London, across the UK and internationally. These caps are reusable, eco-conscious, and designed with Afro and curly hair in mind. Pair them with natural masks or oils for the ultimate spa-at-home experience.
👉 Shop Lava Cap Thermal Hair Caps
Thermal Cap FAQs
What are Thermal Caps for Hair and How Do They Work?
A thermal cap is a reusable heated cap that gently warms your hair during treatments. The heat opens up the hair cuticle, allowing deep conditioners, masks and oils to penetrate more effectively. Think of it as giving your hair a mini spa session at home.
Are Thermal Hair Caps Safe for Afro and Curly Hair?
Yes – thermal caps are safe for straight, wavy, curly and coily hair, including type 4 Afro hair. The Lava Cap uses gentle, natural heat that won’t burn or damage strands.
Thermal Hair Cap vs Steamer: What’s the Difference?
A thermal cap is cordless, portable and much easier to use. Unlike bulky steamers or dryers, it doesn’t require electricity once heated and distributes heat evenly across your head.
Can I use a thermal cap if I don’t have a microwave?
You will need to use a version that can be heated in hot water.
How Often Should You Use Thermal Caps for Hair?
We recommend once a week for deep conditioning, or twice weekly if your hair is very dry or damaged. Consistency is key for visible results.
💆🏾 Benefits & Results FAQs
Do Thermal Caps for Hair Help with Hair Growth?
Yes – while the cap itself doesn’t grow hair, it supports growth by improving scalp circulation and boosting absorption of nourishing treatments. This creates the ideal environment for healthy hair growth.
Can a Thermal Cap Help with Dry or Damaged Hair?
Heat helps conditioners sink deeper into the hair shaft, repairing dryness and damage. Many users notice softer, shinier and more hydrated hair after just a few sessions. Many users notice softer, shinier and more hydrated hair after just a few sessions.
Do Thermal Caps for Hair Help to Reduce Frizz?
Definitely. By improving moisture retention and smoothing the cuticle, thermal caps reduce frizz and help define curls.
Is a Thermal Cap Good for Low Porosity Hair?
Yes – heat is especially beneficial for low porosity hair, which struggles to absorb moisture. A Lava Cap gently lifts the cuticle, allowing hydration and nutrients to enter.
Do Thermal Caps for Hair Help with Scalp Health and Dandruff?
Yes. By improving circulation and allowing oils or scalp treatments to penetrate, thermal caps can help soothe dry, flaky scalps.
🔅 Usage & Care
How Long Should You Leave a Thermal Heat Cap on Hair?
Between 20–45 minutes is ideal, depending on the treatment you’re using. Always check your product instructions too.
What’s the Ideal Temperature for a Thermal Hair Heat Cap?
A comfortably warm temperature that’s safe to touch. The Lava Cap is designed to reach the perfect heat to enhance treatments without damaging hair.
Can You Sleep with a Thermal Cap Overnight?
Thermal caps are designed for short, controlled sessions and work well to trap your body heat so overnight use may have you feeling too warm. However if you do decide to do an overnight treatment, make sure the product in your hair is suitable for multi-hour use such as natural oils.
How Do You Clean and Maintain a Thermal Hair Cap?
Simply wipe your Lava Cap clean with a damp cloth after each use and store in a cool, dry place. The cap should never be soaked in water.
Can You Use Oils with a Thermal Hair Cap?
Yes – thermal caps pair beautifully with natural oils such as coconut, jojoba and Argan oil, or our GROW natural oil blend which contains the powerhouse herbs such as ayurvedic neem, and horsetail and nettle, as a pre-shampoo nourishing treatment.
🌋 Product Specific Questions
Why Choose Lava Cap Over Other Thermal Caps for Hair in the UK?
Lava Cap is reusable, and is designed with even heat distribution and comfort in mind – unlike cheaper, mass-produced alternatives.
Is the Lava Cap Reusable and Eco-Friendly?
Absolutely, Lava Cap is fully reusable and uses less heat to use compared to a steaming machine, making it more energy efficient. This is also great for your wallet!
How Long Does a Thermal Hair Cap Stay Warm?
On average, a Lava Cap stays warm for 15 minutes which is the perfect window for deep conditioning treatments.
Where Can You Buy a Thermal Hair Cap in the UK?
Directly from our official Lava Cap website — with fast UK delivery and exclusive offers
Are Thermal Hair Caps Safe for Hair?
Yes – Lava Caps use gentle, natural heat that is safe for hair. Unlike direct heat styling tools, they won’t burn or cause breakage.
Can You Use a Thermal Heat Cap on Type 4 Afro Hair?
Yes – Afro and curly hair thrives with added moisture. A thermal cap helps treatments penetrate and leaves coils soft, defined and hydrated.
Can You Use a Thermal Cap After Henna or Herbal Hair Treatments?
Yes – in fact, using a cap helps herbs like henna or amla release their benefits more effectively.
Can You Use a Thermal Hair Cap on Coloured or Chemically Treated Hair?
Yes – a Lava Cap helps restore hydration to colour-treated or relaxed hair, keeping it stronger and healthier.
Should You Rinse Hair with Cold Water After Using a Thermal Cap?
Yes – rinsing with cool water helps seal the cuticle, locking in all the goodness from your treatment.
Final Thoughts: Why Every Haircare Routine Deserves a Thermal Cap
A thermal hair cap is more than just an accessory. It is a tool that transforms ordinary conditioning into a powerful treatment. From saving time to boosting hydration, improving scalp health to supporting growth, the benefits are too good to ignore. Whether your hair is dry, curly, low porosity, or simply in need of some TLC, a thermal cap can make all the difference.
So next time you set aside time for self-care, turn couch time into hair spa time with a Lava Cap.
