A few weeks ago I had the end all, be all of tragic hair debacles: I burned my hair. Not just the daily heat damage we all deal with and dread, but actual smoke and the toxic smell of shriveled up locks. My flat iron was too hot and I foolishly didn’t use any heat-protecting product. I know, I know, rookie mistake. Since then, I’ve been on the search for products that will sooth, smooth, and tame my abused locks. There is a silver lining to my crispy mane: This accident has provided a crash course in smoothers, frizz busters, and moisturizers. Check out my arsenal of damage control products as well as some popular products from the community.

And take it from this burn victim: Exercise flat iron safety and always use a heat primer before styling your hair.