How To Prevent, Manage, and Repair Split Ends

Is your once-gorgeous mane starting to fray and turn dry at the tips? Split ends are a hair nightmare we’ve all had. This unpleasant phenomenon, which has the scientific name of ‘trichoptilosis’, takes place when a single strand is split into two. While most visible as a tiny fishtail at the end of your hair, split ends can occur at any place along the strand. They can be a symptom of overall poor hair health and a warning sign that you need to act fast to stop the problem from getting even worse.

What causes split ends can range from genetics to environmental factors like dryness and heat. Hair can also suffer stress from heat treatments like curling, straightening, or even blow-drying, as well as chemical hair products like dying or bleaching. Any of these habits could lead to hair that’s brittle, dry, and frizzy.

Unfortunately, the only way to really get rid of split ends is to snip them off. However, you can take steps to protect your hair and prevent further damage. So instead of asking how to get rid of split ends, turn your attention towards how to repair split ends instead.

Try these tips to help heal and strengthen delicate hair!

Get regular trims

Experts recommend getting a trim at least every six to eight weeks. This is especially vital if you suffer from split ends, as a good trim will stop the damage in its tracks and prevent it from spreading up along the hair shaft. Regular trims will strengthen your hair and help it grow faster.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

One of the most important things you can do to prevent split ends is to hydrate your hair. Drench your hair in much-needed moisture via treatments like hair masks and leave-in conditioners. You can also use hair products like gels, oils, and serums to smooth away frizz and flyaways from split ends.

Turn down the heat

When possible, avoid using hot styling tools such as hair dryers, curling irons, hot rollers, and straighteners. These tools are a surefire way to strip away moisture from your hair, making it more vulnerable to damage and breakages. Try to use heat styling as little as possible, or only with products that use low heat.

Cut back on chemicals

Pay attention to ingredient lists when you shop for hair products. Stay clear from anything formulated with toxic chemicals or harsh drying agents. Parabens, phthalates, and sulfates are all ingredients you don't want in your hair.

Adapt to your environment

Sun exposure and low humidity are major culprits for poor hair. To save your hair some stress, wear a sun hat and invest in a humidifier at home and in your office.

Practice good hair habits

Little things like brushing out hair when it's wet, wrapping it in a towel to dry, or sleeping with your hair in a ponytail may not seem too significant. However, the smallest of actions can add up to either create damage or preserve perfection. So avoid doing any of the above unless you want to put your hair through the wringer.

Pay attention to your plate

Poor hair quality is often an early symptom of a poor diet, so make sure to eat a well-rounded diet high in proteins and healthy fatty acids. Enriching foods like salmon, lean meats, and tofu will return silkiness and shine to your hair. Dark green leafy vegetables, fruits, and nuts will supply you with essential nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants.

To help you get started on your split ends repair mission, we’ve put together a list of 5 SkinStore products that will heal damaged hair in no time. Say goodbye to split ends with these haircare must-haves!

Top 5 Products for Split Ends

1. Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector 2. VIRTUE Perfect Ending Split End Serum 3. Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase Queen - Desert Rose 4. Alterna My Hair My Canvas Universal Gloss Kit 5. Outre Instant Repair Hair Mask CBD