Split Ends Are Normal. But Here’s How You Can Avoid Them

First things first, what are split ends and why split ends occur? Split ends hair is a common problem that occurs when the hair shaft splits at the end, causing the hair to become frayed and damaged. They make hair look dull and lifeless and can lead to further hair damage, dryness, breakage and hair loss. Excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, dry hair and rough handling of the hair are what causes split ends.

Split ends can be identified by examining the ends of a small section of hair for strands that have split into two or more directions. There are several types of split ends including single, forked, and tree, each with unique characteristics.

Once you notice split ends in your hair, tailoring a personalised haircare routine is the way to get rid of split ends and promote healthy hair growth.

Split ends can be a frustrating hair problem, but with some simple techniques, you can learn how to prevent split ends.

• Prevention begins with the most common, regular haircare step which is washing your hair. Look for shampoos and conditioners that not only cleanse and condition but also help keep your hair strands healthy.

One good shampoo for split ends is the TRESemmé Bond Plex Repair Shampoo. Along with its conditioner counterpart, this combo uses advanced technology to repair damaged hair by focusing on the bonds that make up your hair strands.

Another great shampoo for split ends is the Dove Hair Therapy Breakage Repair Shampoo which works on a cellular level to strengthen hair. This too comes with a conditioner and nourishes the hair and keeps it from drying out.

• Proper hair brushing techniques can also help reduce breakage and prevent split ends. This involves using a wide-tooth comb or a brush with soft bristles to gently detangle hair from the ends to the roots.

• Additionally, getting regular trims is not only the way to get rid of split ends but it also helps prevent split ends from occurring in the first place. Be sure to book a salon appointment every 3 months!

• You can also indulge in a weekly hair mask for split ends that helps repair damaged, dry and frayed hair. Look into masks like the Dove 10 in 1 Deep Repair Treatment Hair Mask which is super nourishing and restores the proteins that make up your hair! Just apply it from mid-lengths to the tips and let it sit for 5 minutes before you wash it off.

There are also several myths surrounding split ends that are not accurate. Let's break them down.

1. Split ends are only caused by heat and styling tools.

Fact : Heat and styling tools can contribute to split ends but are not the only cause. Split ends can also be caused by harsh brushing, environmental factors like pollution and chemical treatments.

2. Avoiding haircuts can prevent split ends.

Fact : Regular trimming is the best way on how to prevent split ends. Without regular trims, split ends can travel up the hair strand, causing more damage and potentially leading to hair breakage.

3. Only people with long hair get split ends.

Fact: Split ends can occur in hair of any length, texture or colour.

As mentioned above, trimming your hair every 3 months is the best way to prevent split ends from forming.

While split ends do not cause hair loss, if left untreated, they can lead to further damage and breakage, eventually resulting in thinner hair.

Avoiding heat styling, using gentle hair products, and protecting your hair from environmental damage can all help prevent split ends.