How to Eliminate Split Ends and Prevent Hair Breakage: Expert Tips

According to SAEDNEWS, Split ends can be a significant source of frustration for many as they often lead to an unhealthy appearance and prevent hair from looking its best. Formally known as trichoptilosis, split ends occur when hair fibers fray and split apart, primarily due to a variety of external and internal factors affecting hair health. Fortunately, hair experts have shared their best tips for getting rid of split ends and preventing further breakage.

What Are Split Ends?

Split ends form as a result of both physical and chemical damage. Physical damage often stems from excessive heat from styling tools, over-brushing, and tight hairstyles that can strain hair strands. “The main cause of split ends is heat,” explains Michele Antiga, a signature colorist and stylist at London’s Gielly Green Hair Salon. Chemical damage, on the other hand, arises from processes like coloring, perming, and relaxing, which can weaken hair structure.

Experts have identified four primary types of split ends:

1. The Y Shape: This occurs when the tip of the hair splits into two parts, often an early warning sign of dehydration and friction.

2. The Deep Split: A more advanced form where the split travels further up the hair shaft if left untreated.

3. The Feather: Characterized by multiple frayed edges on one side, this is usually a sign of more severe damage often caused by chemical treatments.

4. The Knot: Common in curly hair, this type occurs when tangles cause the hair to break at the site of the knot.

How to Get Rid of Split Ends

To truly resolve the issue of split ends, the most effective method is to trim them. Michele Antiga states, “You can’t repair ends that are already split... the only way to put ravaged, spindly ends out of their misery is with scissors.” Although cutting hair can be daunting, regular trims can help prevent further damage and more significant lengths from being cut away down the line. Experts recommend visiting your hairstylist for small trims every few weeks, especially for types of hair that are more prone to damage, such as Afro-textured hair or fine hair, which should be trimmed every six to eight weeks to maintain health.

Prevention Tips

While getting regular trims is essential, there are also several practical steps you can take to prevent split ends in the first place. Here are 14 expert-recommended strategies to maintain healthy hair and stay ahead of split ends:

1. Be Gentle with Wet Hair: Hair is fragile when wet and can stretch and snap. Use a detangling product immediately after showering for easier combing.

2. Air-Dry Your Hair: Instead of using heat to dry, let your hair air-dry naturally for the first 50-80% before using a hairdryer to shape it. This reduces the risk of heat damage.

3. Use the Right Tools: Opt for a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently work out knots without causing further breakage. Always start from the tips and work your way up.

4. Dial Down the Temperature of Styling Tools: Keep styling tools below 180 degrees Celsius to preserve the keratin in your hair. Higher temperatures can lead to irreversible damage.

5. Avoid Picking at Split Ends: Picking at them can worsen the damage and cause even more split ends. “The point where the hair stops splitting is where the weak hair ends and strong hair begins,” says Antiga.

6. Apply Sealing Creams: Look for hair care products labeled ‘sealing’ that can temporarily bind split ends together, giving a smoother appearance until your next wash.

7. Invest in Bond-Building Products: Treatments like Olaplex are designed to repair damaged hair by reconnecting the disulfide bonds that can break during styling or chemical processing. Other options include L'Oreal Paris Elvive Bond Repair and Living Proof's Triple Bond Complex.

8. Use a Microfibre Towel: Dabbing your hair with a microfibre towel instead of rubbing it with a regular towel can significantly reduce the risk of frizz and split ends by being gentler on your hair.

9. Consider Keratin Treatments: Professional keratin treatments help fill in gaps and strengthen hair. While they provide a temporary fix, regular trims remain crucial for hair health.

10. Sleep on Silk Pillowcases: Unlike cotton, silk creates less friction with hair, thereby helping to prevent split ends and tangling while you sleep.

11. Take Collagen Supplements: Collagen supplements can improve hair strength and hydration. Over time, these can help reduce split ends breakage, especially as hair loses elasticity with age.

12. Opt for Acidic Hair Color: Using an ammonia-free, acidic semi-permanent hair color can help bring your hair back to its ideal pH level. This can also lessen the visibility of split ends.

13. Use Leave-In Conditioners: A quality leave-in conditioner can tackle tangles while adding hydration, a protective barrier against heat damage, and maintaining cuticle health.

14. Rehydrate Afro Hair: For those with textured hair, dehydration can lead to more split ends. Consider using leave-in curl creams and weekly deep-conditioning masks containing shea butter to keep your hair healthy and well-moisturized.

By implementing these preventative strategies and committing to regular trims, you can effectively maintain the health of your hair and minimize the occurrence of split ends. Remember, keeping your hair nourished and trimmed is essential for not only looking great but also for promoting long-term hair health!