Regal Envy

Split ends are the absolute worst; not only do they look unsightly, but they can make your go-to hairstyle a right pain in the mornings. No matter how much you brush your hair, put in a multitude of products or head to your hairstylist for a little trim, it can feel as though split ends simply become a part of your hair. However, there’s no need to go picking up those scissors to prevent your hair from getting split ends; all it really takes is a little tender love and care to banish them! So, we have put together this article to show you how to get rid of split ends for good.

Our Guide On How To Get Rid Of Split Ends

Split ends happen very slowly over time, and what may feel and look like healthy hair is slowly making its way to the dreaded bristly and dead ends that seem to pop out of nowhere. For some of us, split ends occur because we haven’t had our hair cut in a good few months, but for others, it can be a problem that can make you feel a little drab about your look.

If you find that you have split ends more often than not and that no matter how often you head to your hairdressers, your hair just won’t behave, then it may be your hair care routine that’s the problem. As experts in all things hair, from hair extensions to specialised hair products, we have the expertise necessary to help you effortlessly transform your hair, which we’ve decided to share with you in this article.

• What Are Split Ends?
• What Causes Split Ends?
• How To Prevent Split Ends
• FAQs

What Are Split Ends?

If you want the simple answer, then the definition of a split end is literally in the name; it’s a strand of hair that has split into two. For those wanting a bit more detail, a split end is scientifically known as “trichoptilosis”, which means that the ends of your hair split due to fraying of the hair shaft.

While it is completely normal to have split ends, if you are experiencing them in large quantities, or if the split ends just don’t seem to go away, it could be a sign of greater issues. In most cases, this is a result of heat or bleach damage, not caring for your hair, drying it out through the use of sulphate products or not conditioning. However, if you take care of your luscious locks, it may be a sign of a health issue, particularly if you find that strands are breaking higher up the hair.

What Causes Split Ends?

Now that we’ve covered what they actually are, what causes split ends? As we mentioned before, they can be the result of both poor treatment of your hair and underlying health issues. We thought we’d give you a bit more insight into each of these potential causes.

Health Issues That Can Cause Split Ends

Here are some common health and lifestyle issues that can be the cause behind split ends:

• Diet – we’re sure you’ve heard it all before, but your diet can have a massive impact on your hair. Much like how your eating habits affect how your skin looks, what you eat can also help or worsen your hair’s condition. Split ends could be a sign of deficiency in zinc, iron or folic acid. Take a look at Healthline’s handy article on the best vitamins for hair growth if you think that you need a little nutritional boost!
• Stress – stress is something that we all experience, and it can have a detrimental impact on our hair. It is more common for hair to fall out due to stress rather than break, but if you find that it is breaking near the scalp, then this could be a sign of underlying stress. If you find that stress has become a big part of your life and nothing seems to help, then please book an appointment with your doctor!
• Underactive thyroid – your thyroid’s main function is to produce hormones, and these hormones can help to replenish and grow strong and healthy hair. However, if you have an underactive thyroid, the resulting hormonal imbalance could affect the condition of your hair.

Hair Care Issues That Can Cause Split Ends

These common hair care mistakes can result in split ends:

• Brushing tangled hair – we know it can be frustrating, but PLEASE don’t attack your hair for being tangled. If you’ve been living out your Marilyn Monroe fantasy and allowing the wind to whip your hair back and forth, then you’re bound to get those locks in a tangled mess. If you then use the wrong brush and hack at your hair in the hopes you’ll release those knots, then you’re likely to break the ends and cause them to split.
• Heat damage – who doesn’t love a subtle curl of the hair that looks like you woke up looking like a beach babe? While picking up those straighteners to tame that mane feels like the only option, it will certainly be doing more harm than good. Heat damage can be made even worse if you forget to apply a heat protector.
• Bleach damage – if you’re currently experiencing a bad box dye bleach, then you’ll know all too well the pain of damaged hair. It is important to seek the help of a professional when wanting to change your hair colour; it will not only look ten times better, it will protect your hair from damage!
• Climate change – it’s not just an issue for the planet; it’s an issue for your hair as well! Hot weather may be giving you that sun-kissed nose and golden shoulders, but it certainly won’t be doing your hair any good. You’ll probably notice that your hair becomes frizzy when it’s hot outside, and this is because the heat can strip your strands of moisture.

How To Prevent Split Ends

So now it’s time to move on to what you’re really here to learn; how to prevent split ends. Follow our tips, and you’ll transform your hair with ease from a frizzy mess to sleek and smooth.

• Hair masks – use moisturising hair masks that can be left on the hair for 10 minutes or even overnight to keep your locks hydrated and frizz-free.
• Hair oil – Nourishing your hair with a specialist hair oil is a great way to combat dry hair and prevent brittle ends that are prone to splitting.
• Conditioner – find a conditioner that is best suited to your hair type, and be sure to look for a conditioner for hair extensions if you have them, as this will help to protect and maintain the hair allowing it to last much longer.
• Shampoo – be sure to use a sulfate-free shampoo to avoid damaging your hair. You should also use a specific shampoo for hair extensions if you have them to ensure that they are well-protected.
• Cold wash – we know it can be a little uncomfortable, especially as the colder weather draws in, but try turning down your shower a few degrees. Hot showers can damage your hair, causing it to snap or split.
• Silk pillowcase – this is a small investment to make and can help you stop your hair from becoming tangled or splitting. This is particularly important if you have leave-in hair extensions, as it can help to keep your hair in good condition and avoid it tangling at the roots.
• Cut your hair – it’s important to cut your hair regularly (we recommend every six to twelve weeks) in order to remove any split ends that form quickly. This will prevent them from travelling up the hair shaft and ensure that you’ll be frizz-free for good! If you don’t like having short hair, you can always pop in some clip in hair extensions to achieve the look you love while protecting your natural hair!

FAQs

Here are the answers to some common questions that people have surrounding split ends:

Do Split Ends Stop Hair Growth?

Technically, no. The hair will still grow at the root, but if left untreated, split ends will result in the hair breaking off at the bottom, meaning that your hair will not get much longer.

Should I Cut My Split Ends?

Absolutely! The sooner you snip off those pesky split ends, the better – it’s best to catch them before they cause hair breakage, frizz and fly-aways. We recommend having your hair cut every six to twelve weeks, depending on the condition of your hair, how fast it grows, and whether or not you are trying to grow it out.

Do Hair Extensions Get Split Ends?

Yes! Since high-quality hair extensions are made from real human hair, they can get split ends, just like your natural hair. You can minimise the occurrence of split ends in your hair extensions by taking good care of them.

How To Fix Split Ends With Ease

Split ends can make you feel like a good hair day is miles and miles away, but with some TLC and a little patience, your dream luscious and silky locks are just around the corner. Whether you’re obsessed with hair extensions or prefer the natural look, make sure that you follow our tips and the improvement you’ll notice will be incredible! From trimming your hair regularly to using the right products, these small changes really add up. If you’d like more hair care tips and tricks to keep your locks looking fabulous, check out our previous article for tips on upgrading your nighttime hair care routine!