Split ends - causes, prevention & treatment options

What is split ends?

Split ends are a common hair problem that affects many people, regardless of their hair texture or length. It occurs when the outer layer of the hair becomes damaged and splits at the ends. This outer layer, called the cuticle, normally protects the hair from damage and moisture loss. When it is damaged, the hair becomes more susceptible to further damage and loss of moisture.

There are many causes of split ends, ranging from mechanical stress from brushing and combing, to the use of heat styling tools such as hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons, to chemical treatments such as colouring, bleaching and perming. Environmental influences such as sunlight, wind, cold and humidity can also contribute to the development of split ends.

There are different types of split ends, which can vary depending on the type of damage and the hair structure. The most common types include single split ends, where the tip of the hair splits into two parts, and triple split ends, where the tip splits into three parts. There is also the fork split, where the hair splits into several branches at the tip. Each type of split ends requires specific measures for treatment and prevention.

If split ends are not treated, they can spread along the hair shaft and further weaken the hair, which can lead to breakage and loss. It is therefore important to recognise split ends early and take appropriate action to repair the hair and prevent further damage.

What causes split ends in the hair?

Split ends are caused by a combination of different factors that damage the hair and weaken its structure. The main causes of split ends include

Physical stress

Frequent brushing or combing of the hair, especially when it is wet, can cause excessive friction and damage the outer protective layer of the hair. Similarly, hot styling tools such as straighteners and curling irons can overheat and dry out the hair, leading to brittle and fragile hair. This hair damage can continue along the hair shaft and ultimately lead to split ends.

Chemical exposure

The use of aggressive chemical treatments such as colouring, bleaching, perming or excessive use of hair straighteners can severely stress the hair and cause split ends. Excessive use of hair straighteners or curling irons that use high temperatures can also damage the hair and favour split ends.

Environmental stresses

Exposure to sunlight, chlorinated or salt water and dry air can dry out the hair and weaken its structure, which favours split ends. This makes the hair brittle and more susceptible to split ends. In addition, environmental factors such as wind and air pollution can contribute to damaging the hair and impairing its protective layer, which in turn can cause split ends.

Lack of care

Inadequate hair care can also lead to split ends. Using unsuitable shampoos and conditioners that do not moisturise the hair sufficiently or that cleanse it too much can dry out the hair and make it more susceptible to split ends. In addition, neglecting regular haircuts can cause split ends to spread along the length of the hair, as split ends can no longer be repaired by natural protective mechanisms.

Washing too often

Excessive washing of the hair can lead to the natural oils that protect the hair from moisture loss being removed. This can dry out the hair and make it brittle, which in turn increases the risk of split ends. In particular, the use of aggressive shampoos containing certain chemical ingredients can place additional stress on the hair and weaken the hair structure. It is therefore important to reconsider the frequency of hair washing and opt for mild, moisturising shampoos to protect the hair from drying out and split ends. In addition, it can be helpful to take a break between hair washing days to give the hair's natural protective mechanisms time to regenerate. This period also allows the scalp to restore its balance and regulate excess oil, which promotes hair health.

Can split ends be repaired?

Repairing split ends is really challenging as the hair is already damaged and the separated ends cannot be reunited. Once you have split ends or broken ends, the only way to remove them is by cutting them off. Although there are some ways to temporarily hide split ends, it's best to focus on prevention.

In the next section, you will find out what can help you against split ends and what you can do to prevent split ends.

6 tips for avoiding split ends

1. Use high quality hair care products

Use high-quality hair care products that have been specially developed for your hair structure and needs to strengthen the hair and lock in moisture. Choose shampoos and conditioners that are free from harsh chemicals and contain moisturising ingredients such as tea tree oil.

Australian Bodycare's shampoo will moisturise your hair while minimising breakage. It may be necessary to wash your hair twice with the shampoo. We recommend this especially if you use a lot of styling products in your hair or if your hair is very dirty.

You can also prevent split ends with a suitable conditioner. This provides your hair with moisture and appropriate care for dry hair.

You can find out why you might want to add tea tree oil, for example, with its natural and hair growth-stimulating effects, to your shampoo in this guide.

2. Avoid aggressive hair treatments

Aggressive hair treatments such as frequent colouring, bleaching or perming can put a lot of stress on the hair and lead to damage that can manifest itself in the form of split ends. These chemical processes can damage the outer layer of the hair, leading to dryness, brittleness and split ends. To prevent split ends, it is important to minimise such treatments and only carry them out when absolutely necessary.

In addition, it is advisable to style the hair gently to protect it from breakage and split ends. This means avoiding hairstyles that tighten or pull the hair, such as tight braids, tight ponytails or updos. Instead, loose hairstyles such as soft braids or loose buns are a better option as they put less strain on the hair and reduce tension on the hair.

If you use hair ties or clips, you should make sure that they do not put too much strain on the hair or cause it to break. Avoid tight elastic bands or metal clips, which can damage the hair, and instead use hair ties made of fabric or soft materials that hold the hair gently without straining it. By choosing the right hair accessories and avoiding tight styles, you can significantly reduce the risk of hair damage and split ends.

3. Regular cutting of the ends of the hair

Regularly cutting the ends of your hair is an important step in removing split ends and keeping your hair healthy. Regularly removing split ends prevents split ends from spreading and making the hair brittle. A cut every 6-8 weeks is generally recommended to minimise split ends and promote hair growth.

A professional hairdresser can cut the ends of your hair to keep them healthy and strong while removing split ends. They can also make recommendations for proper hair care and give personalised tips to protect the hair from further damage. By cutting the ends of your hair regularly and using high-quality tools and products, you can maintain the health of your hair and effectively prevent split ends.

4. Limited use of heat styling tools

Limited use of heat styling tools is crucial to protect hair from heat damage and prevent split ends. Straighteners, curling irons and hair dryers can dry out the hair and weaken its structure, which can lead to split ends. However, if you don't want to do without these styling tools, you should take a few precautions.

Always use a heat protectant spray before using styling tools to protect the hair from the damaging effects of heat. A heat protectant spray forms a protective barrier around the hair and minimises the damage caused by styling.

It is also important to minimise the temperature of styling appliances. Excessive heat can stress the hair and cause damage. Use the lowest temperature required for the desired styling result and reduce the styling time to prevent the hair from drying out and splitting.

5. A balanced diet

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in hair health and can help prevent split ends. It is important to eat a balanced diet and consume foods that are rich in essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins and minerals. Protein is particularly important as it is the building material for the hair and helps to strengthen the structure and keep the hair healthy. Foods such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, pulses and nuts are excellent sources of protein that should be included in the diet.

In addition to protein, vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin C, B vitamins, zinc and iron are also important for hair health. These nutrients promote hair growth, strengthen the hair follicles and improve the hair structure.

Adequate hydration is also crucial to keep hair hydrated and prevent split ends. Drink enough water daily to ensure your body and hair are adequately hydrated.

In some cases, it can be difficult to get all the nutrients you need from your diet alone. In such cases, dietary supplements can be a useful addition. Supplements, such as biotin, can support hair growth and improve hair health.

6. Oils are a natural and effective option

Oils are a natural and effective way to treat dry and split hair. They contain essential nutrients and moisturisers that can penetrate deep into the hair structure and nourish the hair from the inside out. One of the most popular oils for hair care is castor oil. Rich in omega-9 fatty acids, castor oil penetrates deep into the hair structure and moisturises to revitalise dry, split ends. It can be used as an overnight hair treatment or as a leave-in treatment for a healthy shine and reduced frizz.

Conclusion

It is important to emphasise that split ends are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including mechanical stress, chemical exposure, environmental stress, lack of care and over-washing.

Split ends can make hair look dull and brittle and can lead to further damage if left untreated. Repairing split ends is a challenge as the damaged hair cannot be restored. Therefore, preventing split ends is crucial.

By using high quality hair care products, gentle hair treatments, trimming the ends regularly, limiting the use of heat styling tools, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated and hydrating with oils, you can minimise the risk of split ends and keep your hair healthy and strong. By following these tips and paying attention to your hair's needs, you can help keep your hair shiny, smooth and free from split ends.