How To Get Rid of Split Ends: Understanding the Big 4 Causes, Prevention, and The Truth Behind Hair Treatments
Hey, I am Meg Ann Lee and this week we are discussing split ends, the nemesis of every hair enthusiast. Split ends can quickly turn a good hair day into a nightmare. Working in the hair industry, I have seen my fair share of damaged hair and heard the most insane remedies on how to treat and fix damage. This week we are discussing how to get rid of your split ends, what is causing the most damage to your hair and the TRUTH behind hair treatments. Whether you're a fan of long locks or prefer a shorter style, split ends are a universal woe. By understanding the root causes of split ends and implementing effective preventive measures, you can bid farewell to this hair dilemma.
Causes of Split Ends
Overstyling
Excessive heat styling, frequent chemical treatments, and vigorous brushing can weaken the hair shaft, making it prone to splitting. High temperatures from styling tools strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it brittle and susceptible to damage. I know we don't want to hear it but this is the NUMBER ONE cause of damaging your hair. Take it from me, I love going platinum blonde to copper to brunette back to blonde but I'm telling you that's the way to short, dry hair. Your hair will never be extremely healthy and long when you do big color changes often. I have some clients who are blonde-aholics and will not stop using their straightener at 400 degrees… and you sleep in the bed you make.
Lack of Moisture
Excessive washing with hot water and using drying hair products can deplete the hair's moisture levels, leading to dryness and eventual splitting. Dry shampoo or dry texture spray is a big one people forget about. You need to cleanse these products out of your hair and use a hydrating mask after or they will DRY TF out of your hair.
Poor Hair Care Habits
At home care is really the key to everything right. Rough towel-drying, using abrasive hair ties, and sleeping on cotton pillowcases can cause friction and breakage, contributing to split ends. Additionally, neglecting regular trims allows split ends to travel up the hair shaft, worsening the condition over time.
Genetics
This is a big one that people just don't quite understand. While you can do all the right things, you simply cannot change your genetics. SO EMBRACE IT! Â Love your wavey texture, style your hair in shorter bobs OR get extensions, wigs or locs, there are so many cool hair styles out there! While you can't change your genetic predisposition, you can take steps to minimize the impact. Some individuals naturally have weaker hair structure or are more prone to split ends due to genetic factors.
Understanding Hair Structure and Treatments
Hair strands are composed of three layers: the medulla, cortex, and cuticle. The cuticle, the outermost layer, acts as a protective barrier for the inner layers. When the cuticle becomes damaged or worn down, the underlying cortex is exposed, leading to split ends. As split ends progress, the hair becomes weaker and more prone to breakage. Products like k18, olaplex and other bond builders work inside the hair to strengthen it.
Do bond builders "heal" the hair? The word "healing" is rooted in the word health, which implies "life". Â Hair is dead once it leaves your follicle. I find it very misleading when brands use words like this but false advertising in the beauty world is WILD and that's a whole other blog post!!
Prevention Tips
Regular Trims
Truly the only way to get rid of a spit end is to cut it off despite all the DIY protein oil combination hair masks you see on Tiktok. You can temporarily fix split ends with product but it's only a band aid. Schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and prevent them from traveling up the hair shaft. I know getting a haircut this often might seem high maintenance, but it will maintain your healthy ends. If you're trying to grow your hair out I would push your haircut out to 10-12 weeks and stop using heat.
Hydration
Keep your hair well-hydrated by using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners and incorporating deep conditioning treatments into your routine.
Gentle Handling
Be gentle. Think of your hair like a fabric, over time it will get worn down! Â Take care of your hair with using a wide-tooth comb to detangle, avoiding harsh chemicals, and minimizing heat styling.
Solutions for Split Ends
Trimming
The most effective way to get rid of split ends is to trim them. Visit your hairstylist for a trim to remove damaged ends and maintain healthy hair growth.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
Invest in nourishing hair masks and treatments enriched with proteins and natural oils to fill and strengthen damaged hair.
Protective Hairstyles
Opt for protective hairstyles like loose braids, buns, or ponytails to minimize friction and reduce the risk of further damage.
By incorporating these preventive measures into your hair care routine and addressing split ends promptly, you can enjoy healthier, stronger, and more luscious locks. Say goodbye to split ends and hello to hair that shines with vitality and strength! <3