Split ends, oh how we all dread them! They not only make your hair look unkempt but can also be a significant hindrance to hair growth. But did you know that getting rid of split ends can actually promote hair growth? Yes, you heard it right!
The frustration of wanting to grow hair and it keeps splitting and breaking at the ends. It can feel like one step forward and two steps back! Before we dig into prevention techniques, let’s take a quick look at how and why we get split ends and how it can affect hair growth.
What are Split Ends and How Do They Form?
Split ends, also known as trichoptilosis, occur when the protective outer layer of the hair, called the cuticle, is damaged. The cuticle acts as a barrier to protect the inner layers of the hair, known as the cortex and medulla. When the cuticle is damaged, the hair splits into two or more strands, leaving the ends frayed and lifeless.
Split ends can form due to various reasons such as:
1. Heat styling
Excessive heat from flat irons, curling wands, and hair dryers can damage the hair’s cuticle, as they take away all the natural moisture from your hair leading to split ends.
2. Chemical treatments
Chemical treatments such as coloring, perming, and relaxing can weaken the hair’s structure, causing split ends. Chemical treatments remove the protective hydrophilic lipid layer and hence make hair more susceptible to damage.
3. Environmental factors
If you live in an area of harsh weather conditions such as sun, wind, and cold can damage your hair’s cuticle, leading to split ends.
4. Poor hair care
Brushing too hard, If you’re in the habit of rubbing and scrubbing your wet hair dry with a harsh, abrasive towel, and not using a heat protectant can all contribute to split ends.
Why Split Ends Can Hinder Hair Growth
Are you tired of having hair that just won’t grow past a certain length? It may be time to examine the culprit behind your hair growth woes – yes you guessed it split ends!
When you leave split ends unattended, they travel up the hair shaft and cause more damage. This results in breakage, which means your hair stops growing at the point of breakage. To avoid this, you need to trim your hair regularly and get rid of those pesky split ends.
How can you prevent split ends?
Split ends are hard to deal with, but they can be avoided by implementing specific hair care practices. Here are 4 steps you can start implementing today and you’ll be able to say goodbye to split ends and hello to gorgeous, healthy locks!
Step 1: Trim, Trim, Trim
It may seem counterintuitive, but regular trims can actually make your hair grow faster and stronger! Some people cry at the thought of cutting their hair, but split ends are like cancer to the mid-lengths and roots of your hair.
By snipping away those split ends, you’re preventing further damage and breakage, allowing your hair to grow longer and healthier.
So, how often should you trim your hair? It’s recommended to get a trim every 6-8 weeks to keep split ends in check. This frequency may vary depending on your hair type, length, and the amount of damage it sustains.
If you’re growing your hair long, regular trims are essential to keep it looking healthy and preventing split ends from traveling up the hair shaft.
Step 2: Nourish From Within
Split ends can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of moisture, poor diet, and stress. To fix split ends, you need to nourish your hair from the inside out.
This means eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and staying hydrated.Eating foods high in biotin, folic acid and Vitamin A supports healthy hair, skin and nails.
So, pop those vitamins, drink plenty of water, and let your hair soak up the goodness.
Step 3: Pamper Your Locks with TLC
Treat your hair to some tender loving care with weekly deep conditioning treatments and hair masks. No matter your hair’s texture, locking moisture into the hair shaft with a mask is a great strategy for preventing split ends.
These treatments can help repair damage, add moisture, and improve the overall health of your hair. So, why not give yourself a spa day at home and indulge in some much-needed pampering?
Step 4: Be Kind to Your Hair
Lastly, be kind to your hair. This means avoiding harsh treatments and chemicals, using gentle hair care products, and protecting your hair from the elements.
Avoid using hot water to wash your hair as it washes away the natural hair oils, strips off the moisture and makes your hair dry. And if you’re still tempted to heat style your hair, make sure to use a heat protectant and keep the temperature low.