The root of the problem

Hair consists of several layers, including the cuticle (outermost protective layer) and the cortex (just beneath the cuticle). When hair is healthy, the layers that make up the cuticle lie smooth and flat. However, as the hair grows, this layer can weaken and break, causing the flaps of the cuticle to buckle or lift up, making the hair appear dull and lifeless. Once the cuticle begins to break down, the ends of the hair lose strength and start to split. Why do the ends of a hair strand split? Many factors are responsible for damaging the hair follicle, including:

• Environmental damage


• Chemical damage


• Aggressive brushing or combing


• Hair accessories like ponytail elastics


• Certain medical conditions

Combat split ends

Given these many factors, it’s no wonder the ends of the hair tend to show damage quicker than the roots. Unfortunately, there’s no magical cream or potion that’ll mend your split ends. Regardless of your hair length, the best solution for taking care of split ends is to get a haircut or trim every six to eight weeks, which removes the damaged dead ends. But, you can delay the onset of split ends with a variety of at-home practices and products.

• Daily hydration. Invest in a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. To preserve the scalp’s natural oils, limit washing your hair to two or three times a week, rather than daily.


• Brush with care. Never brush your hair when it’s wet. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb, and apply a leave-in conditioner for extra protection before combing. When brushing dry hair, use a boar bristle brush to help distribute the scalp’s natural oils down to the ends. Also, avoid aggressive brushing.


• Wash and wear. Limit your use of heat styling tools, such as blow-dryers or flat irons. When you do use these devices, opt for lower heat settings and use a heat-protectant styling cream like Oscar Blandi Seta Silk Polishing Cream. These products will smooth the cuticle and protect the hair from heat.


• Play nice. Avoid using ponytail elastics with metal parts. When undoing your ponytail, always unwrap the elastic from the hair, rather than tugging the hair out of the elastic. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can also help to protect your ends from damage at night.


• Sun stress. When outside, always protect your tresses from sunlight with an SPF product designed specifically for hair, such as Alterna Caviar Anti Aging Beach. If you’re going to be outdoors for an extended amount of time, also wear a hat.


• TLC. For a deep-down treat for the entire scalp, try a weekly conditioning oil. Simply, massage Sundari Neem and Coconut Hair Treatment Oil into both the scalp and hair to strengthen and revitalize. Also, a deep conditioning hair mask will quench parched and splitting ends. Apply a thick layer to damp hair, cover with a shower cap and let the hair marinate for 30 minutes to restore shine and strength.

While split ends are frustrating, they aren’t impossible to avoid. Pay attention to what you might be doing to cause split ends, avoid excessive use of heating tools, baby those tresses and enjoy healthy hair, every day of the week.

See also:

Hair Loss and Women

Dry, Flaky Scalp (Dandruff)

10 Simple Secrets to Healthy Hair