We all want perfect hair. Shiny, strong, and voluminous hair that turns heads when we walk down the street.
So in our quest for beautiful hair, we often do things that damage our hair.
We use heat styling tools on a daily basis, subject our hair to harsh chemicals during coloring treatments, and neglect to give it the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
As a result, we end up with dry, brittle strands that are more susceptible to breakage. While we can’t completely protect our hair from damage, there are steps we can take to minimize the amount of damage inflicted.
One way to do this is to prevent split ends from happening.
Some of the most common causes of split ends are
- Heat damage
- Over-processing
- Lack of moisture
Let’s take a look at each of these causes in more detail and discuss some ways to prevent them.
How to Prevent Split Ends from Happening
-Get Regular Trims:
This might seem counterintuitive – if you’re trying to grow your hair out, why would you get regular trims? But getting rid of those pesky split ends is actually key to helping your hair grow longer and stronger.
Regular trims (about every 6-8 weeks) help to get rid of damaged ends before they have a chance to travel up the shaft and split the rest of the strand.
-Get a Cut with Hot Scissors:
If you have split ends, the best way to get rid of them is to get a trim. But if you don’t want to lose any length, you can get a “dust” – which is a very minor trim that just gets rid of the damaged ends.
Or, you can get your ends sealed with hot scissors. This is a technique where the stylist uses electrically-heated shears to cut hair. The heat helps to seal the ends of the hair, preventing split ends from happening in the first place.
-Avoid Heat Styling Tools:
If you can, try to avoid using heat-styling tools as much as possible. If you must use them, make sure to use a heat protectant and keep the heat on a low setting.
-Be Careful with Chemical Treatments:
If you color or straighten your hair, be extra careful not to overdo it. Stick to treatments that are specifically designed for your hair type, and don’t leave them on any longer than necessary.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Hair to Prevent Split Ends
-Brush Your Hair Correctly:
brushing your hair correctly is important for preventing damage and split ends. When you brush your hair, start from the bottom and work your way up. Use a wide-tooth comb to avoid tugging and pulling on your hair, and be gentle!
-Don’t Overdo It with Shampoo:
Shampooing your hair too often can strip away natural oils, leaving your hair feeling dry and brittle. If you can, try to shampoo only 2-3 times a week. When you do shampoo, focus on your scalp and let the suds run down the rest of your hair.
-Use a Deep Conditioner Regularly:
Deep conditioners are a great way to give your hair a major moisture boost. Use a deep conditioner at least once a week, and make sure to leave it on for at least 15 minutes before rinsing it out.
-Use a Wide-Toothed Comb:
Compared with fine-toothed combs, the friction is smaller when using a wide-toothed comb. This can help to prevent split ends from happening.
-Don’t Brush Wet Hair:
As tempting as it might be to brush your hair when it’s wet, this is actually a major no-no. Wet hair is much more susceptible to breakage, so you’re better off waiting until it’s mostly dry before you brush it.
-Condition, Condition, Condition:
Conditioner is key for keeping your hair hydrated and healthy. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using conditioner after every shampoo.
Make sure to use a conditioner that’s designed for your hair type, and apply it from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair. Rinse it out with cool water to help seal the cuticle and lock in moisture.
-Avoid Washing with Hot Water:
Hot water can strip away natural oils and make your hair feeling dry and straw-like. So instead of using hot water, opt for lukewarm water when washing your hair.
-Dry Your Hair Gently:
Instead of rubbing your hair with a towel, try to pat it dry or air dry whenever possible. If you must use a blow dryer, make sure to use the lowest setting and hold it at least six inches away from your hair.
-Use Gentle Hair Care Products:
Opt for hair care products that are sulfate- and silicone-free, as these can be harsh on your hair and strip away natural oils. Look for products that are specifically designed for damaged or split ends.
-Avoid Tight Hairstyles:
Hairstyles that pull on your hair, like tight ponytails or cornrows, can cause damage and lead to split ends. If you have to wear your hair in a tight style, make sure to give your scalp and hair a break every few days.
-Protect Your Hair While You Sleep:
sleeping with your hair down can cause damage, so it’s important to protect your hair while you sleep. Use a satin pillowcase or sleep with your hair in a loose braid to minimize friction and protect your strands.
-Nourish Your Hair from the Inside Out:
Eat a balanced diet to ensure that your hair is getting the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. In addition, drink plenty of water to keep your hair hydrated from the inside out.
Following these tips can help you to prevent split ends and keep your hair looking its best.
In Conclusion
Split ends are a common problem that can be caused by a number of different factors. But by taking good care of your hair and getting regular trims, you can help prevent split ends from happening.
If you already have split ends, the best course of action is to get a trim to get rid of the damaged hair. And be sure to use gentle hair care products and avoid heat styling tools to keep your hair healthy. following these tips, you can help prevent split ends and keep your hair looking its best.
