Split ends – Types, Prevention & Treatments

Overview

Split ends are always a hot topic of conversation. People constantly remind us to trim our ends, cover up those pesky splits, and avoid damaging our hair. But have you ever wondered why split ends are such a big deal? And is there anything else we can do to get rid of them besides just trimming them off? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about identifying, preventing, and concealing those pesky splits.

Split ends

When your hair strands start to split at the ends, resembling a frayed rope, that’s a clear sign of having split ends. These are the damaged and misaligned fibres that can be seen at the tips of your hair, and you can easily detect them by running your fingers through your hair.

These split ends can travel upwards along the length of your hair, resulting in a darker shade from the middle to the ends. This colour change is primarily caused by light scattering due to the damaged tips.

Hair, although typically resilient, remains vulnerable to harm caused by everyday use. This harm, referred to as split ends, manifests at the tips of your hair due to the presence of the oldest and most delicate strands.

Types of split ends 

There are multiple types of split ends, and the formation of each type can provide valuable insights into the underlying causes. There are different kinds of split ends; how does each split end look like, and what are their respective causes:

Classic 2-way split

This is the most prevalent type of split end, forming quite quickly. Excessive heat styling and the overuse of chemical dyes and treatments are common culprits behind this type of split end.

Baby splits

Also known as mini-splits, infant splits indicate the development of a more significant split. These splits are often caused by a lack of moisture and hydration throughout the hair strand. Although they may be harder to detect, they are a significant warning sign that your hair requires immediate hydration.

Tree splits

Tree splits occur when multiple splits are on only one side of the hair strand. These splits are usually caused by neglecting to trim or cut the hair for an extended period. If split ends are left untreated, they can lead to further damage. You may have waited too long between trims if you notice a tree split.

Deep splits 

Deep splits occur when a split end is located higher up on the hair strand, causing the remaining length to become thin and delicate. Like tree splits, deep splits can also be attributed to neglecting to trim or cut the hair regularly.

Therefore, if you neglect to trim your hair, your split ends may progress into deeper splits or even tree splits. However, it is essential to note that each individual’s hair is unique, and it is possible to have a combination of deep splits and tree splits scattered throughout your strands.

Taper

Although not technically a split, the tapering process weakens the hair strand, thinning the strand’s end. This is another consequence of having dry and strained hair. Recovering the weakened portion of the tapered hair strand is not easy, but to facilitate recovery, it is advisable to consider trimming it.

Feather splits

Feather splits exhibit multiple splits on each side, accompanied by a classic two-way split at the tip. Weakened hair follicles, often resulting from product buildup on the scalp and hair strands, are frequently responsible for feather splits. If you frequently experience feathered splits, it is advisable to assess the health of your scalp as well.

Incomplete split

An incomplete split occurs when a hair strand breaks in the middle and then loops back to the main shaft, creating a whole. The strand may continue to grow normally after the formation of the whole, so it is essential to take precautions to prevent further splitting. Once again, getting a trim is the most effective way to address this type of split.

Causes of split ends

Some of the most common causes of split ends are

Chemical treatments

Chemical treatments, such as salon visits for colouring or chemical treatments, can also contribute to split ends. The chemicals used during these treatments can deplete the natural moisture in your hair, weakening the cuticles and causing dryness that leads to split ends. 

It is recommended to give your hair a break between colour treatments and opt for hair colours with no side effects to minimise the risk of split ends.

Excessive use of heat styling tools

Excessive use of heat styling tools can have detrimental effects on your hair. While these tools may help you achieve your desired hairstyles, using them regularly can unknowingly lead to split ends.

Blow dryers, flat irons, and other heat-styling tools can strip away the natural moisture in your hair, leaving it damaged and dehydrated. Limiting or avoiding using heat styling tools as much as possible is advisable to prevent split ends.

Over brushing

Overbrushing your hair, mainly when dry, can also cause breakage and damage, leading to split ends. Brushing your hair gently, preferably only once or twice daily, is essential. If you have tangled hair, using an anti-split-end hair serum can help detangle it before combing. By incorporating a dedicated hair serum into your routine, you may need to comb your hair less frequently to maintain health.

Over washing

Overwashing your hair can disrupt the moisture balance and contribute to split ends. While taking care of your hair is essential, excessive washing can strip away the natural oils and leave your hair dry and prone to splitting. To maintain optimal hair health, shampooing and conditioning your hair two to three times a week using anti-split end products is best.

Hair styling accessories

While tight ponytails and buns may look stylish, the elastic rubber bands and hair pins used to create them can cause damage to your hair. The friction exerted by rubber bands can harm the hair strands, leading to split ends. Frequently pulling and tugging hair strands can pressure the hair roots, causing hair strands to detach.

To prevent further damage, switching to silk scrunchies and hair accessories that do not pull on your hair is advisable. Furthermore, opting for loose hairstyles can help avoid putting excessive pressure on your hair strands and prevent split ends. 

Towel drying

Lastly, towel drying your hair can contribute to split ends. The friction caused by vigorously rubbing your hair with a towel can lead to breakage and damage. Instead, gently pat your hair dry with a towel or opt for air drying to minimise the risk of split ends.

By learning and understanding the causes of split ends, you can take better care of your hair routine and take appropriate measures to prevent them.

Prevention

While there is no easy way to repair or treat split ends other than trimming your hair, various methods prevent split ends from occurring.

Prioritise conditioning the ends: Begin by applying conditioner to the ends of your hair before distributing it elsewhere. Allow the conditioner to sit on the tips for a few minutes to maximise absorption.

Limit hair-washing frequency: Daily washing removes the natural oils moisturising your hair. Instead, try washing it every two or three days.

Avoid vigorously scrubbing shampoo: Apply it to your scalp and gently massage it. The shampoo will naturally cleanse the rest of your hair as you rinse.

 Adjust your brushing technique:

1. Pay attention to the type of hairbrush or comb you use.
2. Opt for a brush with flexible bristles or a cushioned paddle.
3. Start by detangling the ends before slowly and gently brushing through the strands.
4. Use a wide tooth comb to avoid breakage when your hair is wet.

Avoid using heat to dry the ends of your hair: To protect the delicate tips of your hair, it is essential to limit the use of blow dryers to only the midsection of your hair and never the ends.

Change your hair styling technique: It is essential to prevent excessive heat exposure on the tips of your hair when using styling tools like curling irons. Instead of curling your hair from top to bottom by wrapping it around the curling iron, try placing the iron at the root and gently winding your hair around it. 

Maintain regular hair trims: Regular trims are vital for maintaining the health of your hair and eliminating any split ends that may have formed. Therefore, it is recommended to schedule trims every six to eight weeks.

Be cautious when towel drying: Instead of twisting or scrubbing your hair with a towel, gently squeeze or scrunch it to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent damage to your hair.

Simple and effective ways to get rid of split ends 

The most effective method for eliminating split ends is to cut them off. Starting fresh and giving your hair a well-deserved trim may be beneficial.

Get a trim

Hair dusting is an excellent alternative if you’re hesitant about getting a full trim. Dusting allows you to remove split ends without sacrificing length.

Alcohol-free shampoo

Try using alcohol-free shampoos. Shampoos with alcohol can dry out your hair and make split ends worse. Instead, go for alcohol-free options.

Deep hydration

To keep your hair healthy, avoid using hot water while washing it. Hot water tends to remove moisture and natural oils from your hair, leaving it dry.

Hydrating hair masks

Applying hair masks weekly is a great way to protect your hair from external factors leading to dryness. Hair masks instantly restore hydration, repair damage, and add shine without weighing your hair down.

Look for masks that contain a highly concentrated formula with proteins, vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants to repair and restore dry, damaged hair. You can even try making your own DIY hair masks:

• One effective DIY hair mask for treating split ends is an egg mask. Combine one egg yolk, one tablespoon of honey, and three spoons of olive oil. Apply the mixture to your hair, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then rinse it with lukewarm water. 
• Another option is a papaya hair mask. Blend two slices of papaya with two tablespoons of yoghurt and apply it to your hair. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing with a mild shampoo. It’s important to note that these masks moisturise your hair and prevent further splits, but they do not repair existing split ends.

Hair friendly accessories

Avoid using elastic bands with metal parts or clips, as they can contribute to split ends. Instead, opt for soft scrunchies that are gentle on your hair. Additionally, protect your hair while sleeping by loosely braiding it, tying it up in a bun, or consider using a silk pillowcase.

Take your time with your split ends! Picking at them will only make your hair worse and could cause even more splits. It’s better to be gentle with your hair and take steps to keep it healthy.

Protecting from heat damage

Protect your hair from heat damage. While it’s good to limit the use of heat styling tools, sometimes you might need to use them for certain styles. In those cases, protect your hair to prevent more split ends.

Tips to conceal split ends

The only solution to repair split ends is to trim them. Nevertheless, you can hide them for styling purposes. Here are the recommendations from the experts:

Style your hair to conceal the ends: Hair masks are intensive conditioning treatments that aid in restoring moisture and strengthening the hair shafts. They work wonders in disguising split ends and enhancing the overall appearance of your hair.

Apply hair oil on the ends: If your split ends are noticeable, apply a small amount of hair oil on the ends and lengths to achieve a sleek, untouched-by-heat appearance.

Use a split-end mender: If you are determined to maintain your hair length for a specific occasion and require a temporary fix for split ends, try using a Keratin Sealer on your ends. Blow dry it in, and you will be astonished by the results.

Utilise leave-in conditioners: Leave-in conditioners are typically applied to clean, gently towel-dried hair. To ensure proper application from roots to tips, consider sectioning your hair. If you are preparing your own hair conditioning oil, then look for ingredients that nourish your hair:

• Sweet almond oil– It is known for its hydrating properties without causing hair to become heavy. It can be applied directly as a leave-in conditioner or massaged into damp hair. An additional benefit is its delightful fragrance!
• Argan oil – Indigenous to Morocco, is renowned for its opulent properties. This luxurious oil provides profound hydration and imparts a lustrous sheen to one’s hair. Massage a few drops of argan oil onto dry or damp hair and gently comb it through to treat split ends effectively.
• Panthenol – It is derived from pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5) and serves as a valuable component. It aids in fortifying hair, preserving moisture, and enhancing the quality of hair subjected to damage. Frequently, panthenol takes center stage as the primary element in numerous hair masks and conditioners.

Summary 

Split ends are a hassle and can ruin a sleek hairstyle. They also hinder hair growth, so they’re often discussed in the hair industry. To avoid split ends, reduce the use of styling tools and prioritise conditioning your hair.

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