What are split ends?
Hair grows from the root. This means that your ends are the oldest part of your hair and they are also the most exposed and vulnerable. Daily wear and tear causes fraying and can lead to split ends. While split ends are most recognizable at the ends of the hair, it can occur in the middle or top of the strand as well and can also split into two or multiple pieces. Unless you trim your hair regularly, you may have split ends, but the number of split ends vary. A lot of split ends can be a sign that your hair needs some love and care.
What causes split ends?
To prevent or treat split ends, knowing the cause of the problem is very important. Split ends are usually caused by hair damage, and the more the damage, the more split ends you will have. Some of the common causes of hair damage are:
Heat styling
Frequent use of hot styling tools like straighteners, hairdryers, curling irons and hot rollers can damage your hair. The heat from these tools strips the hair of moisture and makes it prone to breakage and splitting.
Chemical treatments
Chemical straightening treatments and perms, bleaching and hair coloring have a harmful impact on your hair. These treatments damage and weaken the hair and make the hair susceptible to splitting.
Friction
Friction is a common cause of split ends. Some fabrics and materials can cause damage to your hair. Hats, scarves, cotton pillowcases and rough towels can cause friction and hence, lead to damaged hair and split ends.
Climate
Excessive sun exposure and lack of humidity can lead to brittle and weak hair. The damage caused by these factors can also lead to split ends.
Using wrong hair products
A lot of hair products are full of drying agents and alcohols. They strip off the moisture from your hair and cause damage. According to a study, the pH of your shampoo may affect hair breakage. Some shampoos that are more alkaline can cause a negative charge on hair. This causes friction and hence more hair breakage.
How can you prevent split ends?
Unfortunately, there is no way to fix split ends. If you want to get rid of them, a hair trim is your only option. Does this mean that you have to live with split ends all of your life and cut more frequently than desired? No, while split ends are irreversible, they are preventable. Here are some tips to prevent hair damage and reduce split ends.
Regular hair trims
Trimming your hair regularly (every 6-8 weeks) will help you get rid of split ends. In fact, it also helps to prevent further splitting. Once a hair strand splits at the end, it will only lead to more damage. If not trimmed on time, split ends will continue to split all the way up the hair shaft. This will damage the hair strands and lead to brittle and unhealthy hair.
Use less heat and/or use heat protectants
To get healthy and lustrous hair, minimize the usage of hot tools for styling your hair. When you use these tools, use medium or low heat. It is also crucial to use a heat protectant before curling, straightening and blow-drying your hair.
Be gentle
It is very important to be gentle when you wash, dry, detangle or style your hair. Do not brush wet hair as it’s more susceptible to breakage. Instead of a towel, use a microfiber towel or a cotton t-shirt to dry your hair. This will reduce friction and prevent split ends. Also, make sure you use the right hair comb. Our handmade neem comb is a good option as it’s gentle, has antimicrobial properties and increases blood flow to your scalp. Swapping cotton pillowcases with satin or silk fabric will also prevent hair damage and splitting.
Use nourishing products
Good hair products nourish and hydrate your hair and help you maintain healthy hair. Choose the products that are free of toxic chemicals and harsh agents as these can damage and weaken your hair over time. Products like the Back To Your Roots Scalp + Hair Prewash are a great option to add to your hair care routine to keep split ends at bay. This creamy-plant based hair mask nourishes your hair and helps you maintain healthy and strong hair.
Maintain a healthy diet
We are what we eat, so it’s crucial to eat a healthy and balanced diet. For strong hair, include foods rich in proteins, iron, vitamin C, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids. It is also necessary to keep yourself hydrated.