Dealing with split ends is a common hair nuisance. I’ve found that the best way to handle them is to take preventive action, because once they show up, you really have no choice but to cut. Let’s discuss…
What Are Split Ends?
Split hair or split ends is officially known as trichoptilosis. They are damaged areas on the hair shaft in which the protective scales that make up the cuticle layer of your hair is damaged and begins to break and split away which exposes the inner layer of your hair. In extreme cases, the cortex can burst in the shaft or be exposed depending on how the split occurs. Take a look at the chart below for visual examples of split ends.
Causes Of Split Ends
There are many causes of split ends including excessive use of heat styling tools (blow dryers, flat irons, curling irons), overuse of chemical treatments (color, relaxers, perms), rough hair styling and manipulation, and environmental damage.
How Do I Get Rid Of Split Ends?
The only solution for getting rid of split ends is to cut your hair. Once the damage is done, you can’t repair it. Find a good pair of hair shears and give your hair an adequate cut or trim if you discover splits. If your not up to cutting your own hair, find a hair stylist that you trust to do it. Also, don’t believe the claims of hair products and treatments that say they will repair your split ends. The only thing those products can do is coat your hair and reduce the appearance of damage. They will not cure, treat, or repair your split ends.
Preventive Steps To Take
- - Reduce your heat styling usage. Using blow dryers and flat irons daily will wreck your hair. Make sure to use a heat protectant and the lowest setting on the appliance when you do use them.
- - Deep condition your hair often. And pay special attention to your ends when doing so. They are the oldest part of your hair and also the driest.
- - Use a wide tooth comb, preferably seamless. Small tooth combs will fray your hair and cause more split ends.
- - Moisturize and seal your hair when needed. Coconut, olive, and avocado oils are natural oils that provide moisture and penetrate your strands. You can use jojoba or another oil of your choice to seal in the moisture.
- - Invest in satin or silk scarves/pillowcases to protect your strands while your sleep.
- - Minimize manipulating wet hair. Your hair is at it’s weakest point when wet.
- - Fall back on the rough hair styling. Don’t rip through or brush your hair roughly.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
i am thankful for your advice i am going to do that now no more blow dryer or flat iron my hair . i will take better care of my hair
thank you ……..
your advice is very clear to me
Hmmm.. Would just want to add that prolonged use of hair extensions is also one of the fastest ways to have crowning split ends.
So careful ladies.