Preventing Split Ends.

 I have long hair, and split ends have been something I've battled since I was young.  I think it's something that most people struggle with at some time.  There are several different types of split ends.  There is the basic split which is where the ends split into two large pieces. This indicated that your hair needs more moisture.  The second type of split end is the mini where the split is just beginning and is still small.  Again, it indicates your hair is a bit dry.

Then there is the fork in the road split which is when the strands divides into three pieces. It indicates the hair is a bit more damaged. This can be treated with deep conditioning masks.  The next step is the tree with lots of splits on one side. This is one that needs trimming to avoid any further damage. 

One of the best things you can do to prevent split ends is to get your hair trimmed regularly.  It is strongly recommended that one do this every 6 to 8 months but I know that doesn't always work so try for every three to four months if all else fails.  You want any split ends to be removed so they do not get any worse and damage all your hair. When you trim your hair regularly, you are keeping the ends healthy.

Next gently handle your hair, especially when it's wet.  When hair is wet, it is more susceptible to damage due to being weaker.  If you do comb your hair when it's wet, use a wide toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles.  One should also be gentle with your hair even if it's dry so as not to break strands off.  In addition, one should restrict the use of heat styling tools such as blow dryers, curling irons, or flat irons.  Using excessive heat can strip moisture from your hair which leads to additional dryness.  If you need to use heat styling, make sure you use a heat protectorate spray or serum before using the heat.  

When you go out in the sun, always protect your hair by wearing a hat, leave in conditioner, or a UV protective spray because the sun can damage your hair and split ends happen when your hair is dry and unhealthy. Think twice about using chemical treatments such as perming, bleaching, relaxing, or even just coloring can dry the hair out or damage it so you end up with split ends. 

To help keep your hair hydrated, regularly use deep conditioning with either a hair mask or a deep conditioning product once or twice a week at the ends.  This helps counter the sun, chemical, and physical damage done to the hair.  Another thing is to wash your hair a couple times a week rather than every day or two.  Every time you wash your hair, you are stripping away natural oils and if you wash the hair too frequently, the hair can end up dry.

Anytime you comb your hair, use a wide toothed comb rather than a brush. You might need to use a spray to help get the comb through your hair.  As you comb your hair, do not jerk it through the hair so you don't cause breakage.  At night sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase because these two materials reduce friction which helps cut down on the dryness.  If you have cotton pillowcases, think about wrapping your hair in silk or satin scarf to protect it.

Finally, eat a healthy diet filled with biotin, Vitamin A, C, E, and Omega - 3. In addition, drink lots of liquids.  Follow all these suggestions, to prevent split ends.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear. Have a great day.