Split ends occur when the protective outer layer of hair called the cuticle is damaged or broken, exposing the inner layers of the hair shaft. Split ends can be caused by various factors such as heat styling, chemical treatments, over-brushing, and environmental factors like sun damage or pollution. Here are some tips to help prevent and reduce split ends:
Get regular trims
Regular trims every 6-8 weeks will help remove split ends before they have a chance to travel up the hair shaft and cause further damage. Regular trims can also help keep your hair healthy by removing any damaged or weak ends and promoting healthy hair growth.
Be gentle with your hair
Avoid using hot tools like straighteners or curling irons* too frequently and use a heat protectant* spray when you do. Also, be gentle when brushing or combing your hair, and avoid tugging or pulling on knots.
Use a wide-toothed comb
Wide-tooth combs are gentler on hair than other types of combs or brushes. Wide-tooth combs have wider gaps between the teeth, which means they are less likely to tug or pull on hair when used to detangle. This can help prevent breakage and damage to the hair, especially for those with naturally curly hair, which can be more prone to tangling. A wide-toothed comb will help detangle your hair without pulling or breaking it which in turn prevents split ends
Avoid chemical treatments
Chemical treatments like coloring, perming, or relaxing can weaken the hair and cause split ends. If you must use these treatments, try to space them out as much as possible by leaving enough time between treatments. At least 6 weeks for hair color and at least 10 weeks for relaxers or perms. Use conditioning treatments regularly during those weeks to help strengthen your hair and keep it healthy.
Protect your hair from the sun and environmental damage
Wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner* with SPF protection when you’re out in the sun, and avoid exposing your hair to pollution and other environmental damage as much as possible. You would be surprised how much of difference this will make to the overall health of your hair.
Use hair masks and conditioning treatments regularly
Regular deep conditioning* treatments and hair masks can help moisturize and nourish your hair, reducing the risk of split ends. Deep conditioning* treatments, protein treatments, hot oil treatments & regular ole leave in conditioners can help moisturize and nourish hair, reducing the risk of dryness and breakage.
By following these hacks, you can help prevent split ends and keep your hair healthy and strong.
