Nothing can ruin a hairstyle like frizz, thin edges, and hair that looks generally unhealthy because of split ends. Fine hair may be more prone to splitting, but split ends are actually a problem that affect all hair types.
But what causes this problem?
Split ends occur when the protective cuticle of hair is damaged and worn away. Some causes of this can be:
1. Brushing hair too much or too rigorously
2. Coloring hair too frequently or using harsh bleach
3. Snagging and pulling hair on plastic hair ties and clips
4. Poor nutrition and hydration
5. Overuse of hot styling tools
Since our hair is exposed to so many damaging factors, it’s impossible to completely avoid getting split ends. However there are some ways you can keep your hair healthy longer and reduce split ends.
First, if you already have split ends, you need to get a trim. There is no miracle treatment that will repair a split end permanently. There are some styling products that coat hair in a serum to seal a split end, but this is temporary and will wash out next time you shampoo.
Cut It Out!
It’s alright to use a styling product to temporarily hide split ends, but it’s important to make sure hair is trimmed regularly. The longer you wait to trim your hair, the further the split will travel up your hair. Avoid having to get a drastically short haircut by staying on top of your regular trims. Depending on how healthy your hair is, you may need a trim every 6 – 10 weeks.
Contrary to popular belief, trims won’t keep you from getting long, luscious hair. In fact, regular trims can make growing out your hair a little easier since it gets rid of the unhealthy part of hair. If your hair tends to thin out on the ends as it grows, it’s a clear sign that it needs to be trimmed more often.
Take Care Of Your Hair
The dryer the hair cuticle is, the more prone it is to splitting. Keep your scalp and hair hydrated by drinking plenty of water every day. Natural coconut oil is excellent at restoring moisture to the ends of hair and preventing splitting. For noticeably softer hair, apply some coconut oil to the ends of dry hair and leave in overnight before washing out the next day.
Remember: you are what you eat. If you’re not getting enough vitamins or are eating too much processed foods, it’ll show in your hair. Hair is made up of a protein called keratin, so eating protein-rich foods will help strengthen hair and reduce split ends.
Be gentle on your hair. Don’t brush your hair too much and use a natural bristle brush when you do. Protect hair with a thermal styling spray before blow drying or using any other hot styling tools. A leave-in conditioner is another great way to create a protective ‘shield’ between your curling iron and your hair. Once or twice a week, apply either a store-bought or a home remedy deep conditioner mask to hair. This extra treatment can help strengthen the hair cuticle and prevent split ends.
Do you have any tips or home remedies for reducing split ends? Share them in the comments!
