Split ends are a problem that plague every woman, whether your hair in long, short, curly, straight or wavy. Split end hair is caused by several factors: over-styling from hair dryers, curling irons, flat irons, hot rollers, etc.; over-treated hair from coloring, relaxing, perms, highlights, etc.; over-brushing hair and brushing wet hair; and elastic bands.
Split ends are a rampant problem due to the over-processing of hair in our society. Certainly, you want your hair to look its best and often than means treating your hair, styling it and keeping it clean. There are ways to temporarily relieve the unsightliness of split ends, but these methods literally wash down the drain upon the next hair washing.
Treatments for Split Ends
- Hot oil treatments. A hot oil treatment is a great way to temporarily seal the hair shaft, thus smoothing out the split ends. This is also a great way to bring back shine to your hair and make your hair extra soft.
- Intensive moisturizer. Using a very intensive moisturizing conditioner can have the same effect of a hot oil treatment – it will seal the hair shaft and smooth split end hair. The conditioning treatment is great for your overall hair condition and will make your hair soft and shiny. Remember that dry hair will split faster, so it is ideal to use conditioner each time you wash your hair, and alternate with an intensive conditioner once a week. Avoid over-conditioning, though, as it can have the opposite effect and weigh down your hair, losing body and bounce.
- Styling products. It is ideal to apply styling products to wet hair prior to styling your hair with hot tools like the hair dryer and the flat iron. Styling products can provide a base for your hair and prevent further hair damage by offering a protective layer. There are specific products available for heated styling; just try several to find which one works best for you.
Preventing Split Ends
The best way to cure split ends is to prevent them from forming in the first place. The reality is that if you have split ends the only and best way to get rid of them is to get your hair cut. Often, this may involve integrating layers into your hair so that the majority of the split ends are cut off. If you already have split ends, get a trim or a cut and then follow this advice.
- Washing hair. When washing your hair take care to use warm water and not overly hot water. Use a shampoo and conditioner that is right for your hair type. If your hair is dry, use a shampoo and conditioner that contain moisturizing ingredients. It is ideal to condition your hair for about five minutes and then rinse it with cool water.
- Drying hair. The best way to dry your hair is naturally. Avoid rubbing your hair with a towel or squeezing it out. If you must towel your hair, please just pat it very gently to blot up the water. Do not use a hair dryer if your hair is sopping wet, instead let your hair air dry about halfway and then use a hair dryer. Again, it is ideal to use a protective styling product before drying your hair with a hair dryer.
- Brushing hair. When your hair is wet never use a brush; instead, use a wide-tooth comb for detangling hair. The less you mess with your hair while it is wet, the better. When your hair is dry, it is ideal to use a soft bristle brush and to brush gently. Avoid brushing hair harshly, pulling hair with a comb or brush. And, also avoid over-brushing your hair as it will cause hair to break.
- Treating hair. If you are constantly coloring, perming, relaxing and highlighting your hair, be sure to wait at least four weeks between treatments – six weeks between treatments is best. It is best to avoid having two treatments done at the same time, so alternate coloring and relaxing hair to avoid over-damaging hair.
