The present disclosure relates to compositions that protect the skin and hair from extreme heat (external thermal flux). The compositions include: (a) laponite; (b) one or more UV filters; (c) one or more emulsifiers; and (d) water. The compositions are useful in cosmetic, industrial, and military technologies. For instance, the compositions are useful in methods for protecting skin from intense external thermal flux (e.g., fires and explosives). When applied to the hair, the compositions are useful in methods for protecting the hair from heat damage caused by, for example, hair dryers, curling irons, straightening irons, etc.