Split ends, along with dandruff and hair loss, are a common hair problem. This condition can be caused by using improper hair products or a lack of nutrients in the hair. Knowing the causes and how to prevent them can help you maintain healthy, shiny hair.

What causes split ends?

Split ends can happen to anyone, including men, women, children, and adults. Although hair grows healthy and strong, the oldest part of a strand, the ends, can become split, dry, or damaged.

Split ends are primarily caused by improper hair care or styling habits, such as:

• Not using conditioner
• Exposure to chemicals on the hair for a long duration
• Rubbing wet hair roughly
• Combing the hair while still wet after shampooing
• Using a hair dryer or curling iron at high temperatures
• Not cleaning the residue of hair care products thoroughly
• Tying the hair too tightly
• Adding hair extensions
• Styling hair, such as painting or straightening hair
• Combing the hair excessively

The shape of split ends is generally the same, with the ends of the hair looking split or forked. However recognizing the different types of split ends can help identify the cause.

Some examples of split ends and their causes are:

• Y-branch (double split): The most common type of split ends is when the ends of the hair split into two. This type of split ends occurs when the hair cuticle is damaged, which is typically caused by excessive combing or styling
• Partial split: Split ends are similar to a double split but smaller in scale. It is usually caused by dry hair conditions and is exacerbated by the use of hair products
• Tree split: This split end makes your hair look like a tree trunk with twigs or branches sticking out. This hair damage indicates that your hair is damaged and needs to be trimmed immediately
• Fork Split: Fork splits can occur when your hair branches out to resemble the shape of a fork with three splits. This type of split end occurs when your hair is dry and not getting proper hydration

Read more: Benefits Of Yogurt For Facial And Hair Beauty

Split hair treatment

Split ends cannot be repaired and must be cut off. You can trim only the split ends or cut off the entire length while styling your hair.

Read more: How To Care For Damaged Hair Due To Bleaching

Can split hair be prevented? 

Split ends are a common complaint in hair problems, but proper care can prevent this condition. Some things you can do to prevent split ends include:

• Trim or cut hair every two months or whenever split ends appear
• Avoid washing your hair every day
• After shampooing, wipe the hair with a hair towel
• Choose a shampoo with ingredients that are gentle and not harsh on the hair
• Use conditioner after shampooing
• If you want to comb your hair when it is wet, use a wide-toothed comb
• Limit the use of chemicals on the hair
• Take hair-strengthening supplements such as biotin and folic acid

Split ends can be treated and prevented by improving daily hair care. If you have hair problems, consult a doctor or use the consultation feature on the AI Care application.

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