uni wigsSplit ends occur when a strand of hair splits into two. The cells in these hair strands are often old and easily frayed. Though we usually notice split ends at the ends of our hair, they can happen anywhere on our strands.
It is okay to have split ends, everybody experiences them but when they occur in a large quantity, it can become a problem. Split ends leave the hair dry and can cause the hair to feel unhealthy. If split ends are not removed, it can escalate and cause the hair to break further, causing overall brittleness. Many people also have hair that doesn’t seem to grow past a specific length, the problem here may also be split ends. No one wants split ends or hair that won’t grow!
Here we will explain what causes split ends, and how you can get rid of them and prevent them from developing in the future.
What causes split ends?
Yes, genetics may contribute to split ends but there are other factors that can lead to split ends, and these include:
Bad hair habits
There are multiple bad hair habits that we often engage in without knowing that they in fact open the doors for split ends to come in. We may carry out these habits for convenience, but they can cause damage to our hair. Examples of these bad habits include wrapping your wet hair up in a towel to dry, brushing out tangled hair starting from your roots, and wearing your hair tied up while sleeping. All these habits can cause breakage and lead to split ends.
Excessive heat styling
We all want to look great with perfect curls achieved from a curling iron, or super sleek and straightened hair. But did you know that using heat styling tools (hot rollers, straighteners, hairdryers, curling irons) frequently on the hair dries up natural hair moisture, making it more vulnerable to splitting? Yes, it does. The less heat styling, the less likely you are to get split ends.
Chemical treatments and the wrong hair products
Using any chemical treatments on the hair, such as bleaching or dying, makes the hair strands weaker. This results in hair that is more vulnerable to breakage and split ends. The same goes for hair products that are not good for your hair. You don’t have to test every hair product on the market. Use only quality products to avoid dryness that can lead to split ends.
Nutrition
What goes into your body largely affects the wellbeing of your hair. If you eat nutritious food, full of fruits, vegetables, and plenty of water, your hair will show it. But when your meals are lacking in protein and minerals, your hair can become negatively affected.
How can I get rid of my split ends?
It is necessary to take proactive measures to prevent getting split ends and remove them completely.
Trimming
The most effective way to get rid of split ends is to trim them off. Regular trimming will not only let your hair grow stronger and faster, but it will also help keep split ends in check. If split ends are not removed, the hair will continue to break along the hair shaft which results in frizzy hair, and hair that does not grow past a certain length. It is good practice to trim the hair every 5 to 8 weeks to prevent split ends from occurring.
Use good products for your hair
To keep split ends at bay, you don’t need to wash your hair frequently and when you do, make sure you use the right hair products that are compatible with your hair. Some shampoo and other hair products may be good for another person’s hair but harsh to yours stripping it of the natural hair moisture. Choose your shampoo, conditioner, and other hair styling products not according to the price but the effect they have on your hair. Ensure you read the ingredients of any product you are buying for your hair. Natural hair care products are always the best option as inorganic products contain chemicals that may be toxic to your hair. Always avoid shampoos containing sulfates and parabens.
Change your hair washing method
Instead of washing your hair the conventional way by shampooing your hair first and then conditioning, try switching to conditioning your hair first. Then, shampoo the hair and finish up by conditioning your hair again. This method can help to lock in moisture and prevent your hair from drying out. The extra conditioning will give your hair an extra shine.
Treat your hair
Include a day of treating your hair into your weekly schedule. Nourish your hair with a natural coconut oil mask popular for repairing damaged hair. Research has proven that using oil on the hair can prevent splits ends from forming. You can make do with other oils such as olive oil if coconut oil isn’t available for you.
Embrace your natural hair
Love your hair and keep it in good condition. Stick to your natural color and texture. By altering its natural look, you are likely causing damage to your hair. Go easy on your hair. When combing, do so gently and do not apply unnecessary pressure. It may result in the breaking of the hair – causing more damage.
Reduce your use of heat styling tools
It might be impossible to completely stay away from using heat styling tools, but you can reduce the number of times you use them. If you must use heat tools, turn down the temperature to low heat, and don’t forget to apply a heat protectant. Although heat protectants do not stop the hair from getting damaged, they can reduce the impact of the heat on the hair. It is also better to allow the hair to air dry instead of blow-drying.
Change your pillowcase
To prevent your hair from frizzing, switch your cotton pillowcases to silk or satin ones. Silk and satin pillowcases help to prevent your hair from chafing while you toss in your sleep.
By following these tips like eating healthily and getting regular trims, you will be able to grow and maintain strong and healthy hair. Remember that when it comes to split ends, prevention is the key.
