Split ends are common hair problems that can happen anytime to anyone of any age or gender. Due to this condition, the hair looks dry and fizzy, and the hair shaft gets split or broken into two or more strands. Split ends occur primarily due to excessive heat, the use of chemical hair products, and the lack of proper care. The split ends indicate unhealthy and weakened hair characterised by rough texture, lack of shine and tangled hair. So, knowing the causes, treatment, prevention, and home remedies helps deal with it better.
Causes of Split Ends
There are several reasons behind split ends. These include some environmental factors and a few wrong hair care practices.
The environmental factors include –
Exposure to certain weather conditions, such as extreme summer, humidity, and wind, can dry out the hairs, which causes split ends.
Also, pollution causes dry hair and increases the chance of breakage.
Hair care practices that contribute to split ends are –
Combing just after the shower when the hairs are wet.
Use a towel to rub the hair to dry.
Extended rubbing of shampoo throughout the hair.
Not using conditioner after shampooing.
Frequent usage of blow dryers, curling irons, and/or hot combs.
Contacting hairs with harsh chemicals, such as chemicals in swimming pools.
Prevention Strategies for Split Ends
There are several methods of preventing split ends –
Wet hair increases the chances of hair damage. Thus, after washing the hair, an individual must avoid rubbing it dry. Instead, they can wrap their hair to blot it dry. It reduces hair damage and breakage.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends a wide-toothed comb for hair brushing. It eases detangling the hair and comb without any hair breakage.
Dryness leads to split ends of hairs. Thus, locking moisture in hair is necessary. For this, individuals should use conditioners and weekly hair masks.
Before applying heat to the hair through a blower, everyone should apply a heat-protectant product.
Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase allows the hairs to glide on the pillow. It reduces friction between hair and pillowcase. It also prevents split ends.
Regular trims help to remove the split ends and keep the hair healthy. The hair trims should be taken every 6 to 8 weeks.
Home Remedies to Minimise Split Ends?
Applying natural oils is a popular home remedy for split ends. These include -
Apply Moroccan argan oil on the hair ends. It provides a supple appearance of the hairs.
Mix peppermint and lavender oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or argan and apply to the hair. It works as a hair perfume and protects it from dryness.
Coconut oil protects hair from sun or heat damage. A study in 2005 proved that coconut oil allows penetration of hair fibres, which lock moisture in the hair. Thus, applying coconut oil can significantly reduce split ends.
Bhringraj oil is a natural scalp cleanser that reduces dandruff and scalp dryness. It reduces split ends, reduces hair loss, and boosts hair growth.
Onion hair oil promotes overall hair growth and strengthens the hair from the root.
Also, some ingredients are used in DIY hair masks and conditioners to conceal split ends and improve the overall appearance of hair. They are -
Sweet almond oil hydrates the hair and is used as a conditioner. People can use it as a leave-in conditioner or rub it into wet hair.
Panthenol is a byproduct of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), which retains moisture in the hair. It also improves the texture of damaged hair and strengthens it. Thus, it's used in various hair masks and conditioners.
Using homemade or ready-made masks with ingredients like olive oil, aloe vera, bananas, and honey can reduce split ends.
Egg yolks can treat hair breakage. It contains proteins and fatty acids that reduce the split ends. So, a homemade mask with egg yolk, honey, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil will be helpful.
Professional Treatments for Split Ends
Hair experts suggest salon treatments that effectively reduce split ends. These are -
Protective styles
Hairstyles such as braids, buns, updos, and twists can reduce hair friction due to pillow covers. Thus, these hairstyles minimise hair breakage, too.
Protein treatment
Protein treatments provide hair strength and resilience, reducing split ends, too. For these treatments, unique products that contain extra proteins are used. They come in different forms, such as hair masks or conditioners.
Effectiveness of professional haircuts
Also, professional haircuts play a vital role in preventing hair health. Professional hairstylists have enough skills in several precise haircuts and tools. These haircuts avoid split ends, promote hair growth, and protect against hair damage.
Long-Term Hair Care Tips
Here are some long-term hair care tips that manage split ends and promote hair growth –
Allow the hair to become dry naturally.
Massage the scalp with essential oil to promote hair growth and reduce split ends.
Change the areas where pins or clips are used. It eliminates the chance of getting localised damage.
Get haircuts every 6 to 8 weeks to avoid split ends.
Start with the lowest heat while applying blow drying. Then, gradually increase the heat as per requirements.
Apply a hair colour which lies within the three natural shades of hair.
Alternative Hair Care Products
Since dry hair is the primary source of split ends, it is essential to ensure moisturisation of the hair. The best way to achieve that is through the use of shampoos that provide it.
Moisturising shampoos are best for dry hair. They contain lightweight oils and hydrating elements like hyaluronic acid. These lock moisture in the hair.
Additionally, for dry and breakage-prone hair, it's best to use protein conditioner. It reduces hair breakage and strengthens hair. This conditioner is suitable for fine or thin hair. But, for thick, dry hair, moisturising conditioners are best. They make hair soft and smooth.
Furthermore, people should apply hair serum to prevent split ends. These serums add moisture to the hair, making it glow and provide a natural look. It is best to use a serum on clean and damp hair.
Lifestyle Tips for Healthy Hair
Healthy lifestyle habits are reflected through healthy and bouncy hair. So, here are lifestyle tips to prevent split ends -
Eating a nutrient-rich diet that contains omega-3 fatty acids and protein helps. So, the diet includes plenty of leafy vegetables, carrots, beans, nuts, and salmon.
Also, add vitamins A, C, and E to the diet through eggs, citrus fruits, spinach, tomato, etc.
Stress can also lower the quality of hair and lead to split ends. Thus, stress management becomes essential for hair health management. Here are some stress management tips to prevent hair health -
Having adequate sleep of 7 to 8 hours.
Engaging in activities such as walking, cycling, yoga, and jogging improves blood circulation and the oxygen supply to the hair follicles. It promotes hair growth and reduces split ends.
Relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation also prevent hair damage and breakage.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
While taking care of the hair, individuals must avoid the following mistakes –
Avoid scrubbing the shampoo on hair. Instead, apply it to the scalp and wash it. During the rinsing, the hair will get enough shampoo.
Start applying conditioner at the ends of the hair first. Ensure the conditioner stays on the hair tips for a few minutes and soaks up well.
Always apply heated products on the mid portion of the hair. Never use it on the ends, as hair's most fragile parts.
Avoid hair colouring procedures. The chemicals included in these methods weaken hair cuticles. It leads to split ends.
Conclusion
Split end is a common hair condition that makes it look fizzy, dry and unhealthy. It occurs when the hair tip splits into two due to poor hair care and lifestyle habits. But, it is easily manageable with a few alterations. Once individuals change their haircare routine through suitable haircare products and home remedies, they can easily bring a natural shine to their hair. Also, they can focus on modifying their eating habits and lowering stress to eliminate this issue and enjoy smoother, healthier hair.
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