Understand why you shouldn’t ignore the split ends and take care of them ASAP!
Do you know split ends can affect your hair growth and rob its bouncy and luscious look if not managed properly? Not only that, they make your hair texture dry and dull. Therefore, split ends should be taken care of and kept at bay to avoid these hair issues.
Split ends are a common issue for black women. Natural curly hair can be more prone to split ends due to its curly and dry texture. Split ends can be painful and affect the quality and growth of your hair. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent and treat split ends for healthy hair.
What Causes Split Ends?
Your hair strands begin to develop split ends when the hair cuticle (outer protective sheath) gets damaged and begins to wear off. This leads to the delicate inner layer of your hair getting exposed and weakened or dehydrated, which, in turn, causes split ends. Unfortunately, there are a ton of factors that could be contributing to your split ends issue. While you could blame some of it on the harsh environment that your hair exposes to every day, you also need to understand the way you are treating or mistreating your hair. So, here are a few of the most common factors that lead to hair damage and split ends.
De-tangling your hair aggressively when it is dry
Sun damage caused by stepping out in the sun without covering your hair
Using heat styling tools like straightening irons, curling wands, and blow dryers excessively
Not trimming your hair regularly
Not conditioning your hair regularly
Not deep conditioning your hair regularly
Washing your hair daily
Sleeping on rough or cheap quality pillowcases like cotton
Undergoing chemical treatments like hair color, relaxers, and perms
Using too many styling products like gels, mousses, waxes, hair sprays, etc...
Using cheap quality synthetic brushes, combs, and other hair tools and hair products
Unhealthy diet and not getting enough proteins, minerals, and vitamins
Why Do You Need To Trim Split Ends?
Split ends don’t just magically fuse back together when you start conditioning or taking care of your hair. In fact, the longer you put off trimming, the more each end splits into 2 or 3 “feathers.” This, in turn, seriously hinders your hair growth.
Letting your split ends persist and leaving them untreated is a bad idea.
The color of split ends is usually a bit lighter than your natural hair color. This can make your overall hair color look discolored and uneven.
Rob your hair of its shine: Split ends rob your hair of its lively glow and make it look brittle, dull, and frayed. No amount of conditioning, hair masks, and spa treatments can restore the shine back in your hair unless you trim off the split ends.
How To Trim Split Ends
The easiest, quickest and most convenient way of getting rid of split ends is by trimming them off in the comfort of your home! All you need is a pair of hair cutting scissors and you’re good to go! There are 3 different methods that you can try out to get rid of split ends.
TIPS FOR PREVENTING SPLIT ENDS
Use a wide-toothed comb to de-tangle your wet hair, starting from the tips and working slowly towards the roots.
Avoid combing your hair when it's dry and curly, as this can break it and cause split ends.
Moisturize your hair regularly with moisturizing and nourishing products based on water like leave in conditioner, water, herbal oil or shea butter.
Cover your hair with a silk scarf or satin cap at night to protect it from friction and dryness.
Deep condition your hair every 2 weeks to restore moisture into your hair and nourish it from within.
Don't use rubber hair ties or ones that have a metal clasp in the middle tend to break your hair and ultimately lead to split ends. So, use soft hair ties that are gentle on your hair.
Avoid swimming regularly in harsh chlorine-infused water can cause long-term damage to your hair. So, apply a protective layer of coconut oil all over your hair and put on a swim cap before you jump into the pool.
Eating a balanced diet full of proteins, vitamins, and minerals and keeping your body well hydrated is essential for maintaining the health of your hair. These nutrients may nourish hair follicles and improve hair strength.
SOLUTIONS FOR SPLIT ENDS
Trim :
Regularly cutting split ends can help prevent their spread upward.
Moisturization :
Make sure to use moisturizing products to maintain the softness and smoothness of your hair. The aloe vera in our products particularly helps to bring hydration.
Professional care :
Visit a professional hairstylist for a hair reconstruction treatment that can help repair split ends and nourish your hair.
Specific hair care protocols :
Hair care protocols such as gentle brushing and braiding can help prevent split ends by reducing friction on the hair.
In conclusion, split ends can be frustrating for black women, but there are ways to prevent and treat them. By following these tips and adopting healthy hair care habits, you can help maintain the health and beauty of your hair.
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