Let’s face it, even the strongest and healthiest of hair is prone to split ends. Split ends look just like they sound, like the frayed ends of an unraveled rope. But, what are split ends? Split ends are end tips of the hair that get split into two. Caused by daily wear and tear with constant use of chemicals, environmental stressors, and unhealthy grooming habits, they can get a handful to deal with. Read on to understand what causes split ends and the best ways to prevent them.

Causes Of Split Ends

Heat styling

Using hair appliances that use high heat to style the hair can lead to dry, lifeless split ends. Heat damage is often the most common cause of split ends because chemical bonds of the hair, which provide strength to the hair fibre, tend to break when exposed to excessive heat. Use a heat protectant spray to save your hair from damage.

• Chemical Treatments

That desired perm, straight locks, or that hair colour, all come at a price. Chemical and colour treated hair is more prone to breakage and split ends. During treatments, heavy use of chemicals is done to your hair which weakens the cuticle and drains your hair of its natural moisture. 

• Over Washing & Over Brushing

To keep your hair naturally lush and vibrant, you must wash them to get rid of oil and dirt that collects over time. But excessive washing can lead to dry and rough hair that’s most likely to split at the ends. While getting rid of the knots in your hair, avoid over brushing as it can turn the hair follicle fragile and cause split ends and hair loss. 

• UV Exposure

When exposed to the sun, the ultraviolet radiation can cause significant damage to your hair if not properly taken care of. With regular sun exposure, the keratin and protein bonds present within the hair start to deteriorate and the natural color and shine of the hair tend to fade away, potentially causing the hair to split. 

Prevention Of Split Ends 

• Get Trimmed Regularly

Getting a trim is the most straightforward way to get rid of split ends. You should opt for a trim every 6-8 weeks to prevent your hair from getting split all the way. 

• Be Gentle

Once split at the end, your hair is more likely to face damage from other factors as well. Be kind to your hair and avoid brushing too hard, drying wet hair with a towel, and combing using the right detangling comb. We recommend using a cotton t-shirt or a microfibre towel to dry your hair to reduce friction. Use a gentle detangling brush or comb that gets rid of the knots without an unnecessary amount of hair tugging. 

• Mindful Hair Care Routine

Adopt a mindful hair care routine that is free of chemicals like parabens and suphates and switch to a more natural way of maintaining your hair. Invest in a toxin free shampoo and conditioner that nourishes and nurtures your hair. Get into the habit of applying coconut oil or a hair mask on your hair and massaging it well at least once a week for lustrous locks. 

Split ends are a common hair woe with no remedy or reversal. All you can do is keep these guidelines in mind and use prevention as the key to split end free hair!