How to Prevent Split Ends and Breakage
The condition of having split ends is called trichoptilosis and is defined as the longitudinal splitting of hair. Split ends can be of different types; the most common type is the splitting of the strand at the end. Other types are splitting of the hair several times in the same strand, and splits occurring in the middle of the hair strand that appear like holes when the hair is bunched up.
Ways to prevent split ends:
1. Get a haircut every 6-8 weeks. The ends of hair tend to get damaged despite our best efforts. In order to keep hair healthy, it is a good practice to trim ¼ -1 inch of the ends of hair every 6-8 weeks. In between haircuts, you can remove the random split end using a pair of hair shears. Ensure that you always cut above the damage, or else it will travel along the length of the strand and cause further damage. Using regular paper scissors tends to fray the ends of the hair, so it is best to stay away from them.
2. Do not wash hair with shampoo every day. Hair does not need to be shampooed every day; in fact, washing hair on alternating days allows the natural oils of the scalp to travel down the hair strand and nourish the ends.
3. Use a wide-toothed comb instead of a brush. A wide-toothed comb is much gentler to thick hair as compared to a brush. Combs or brushes should be used to untangle hair, and not pull them out. For every day brushing, a cushioned paddle brush with flexible bristles should be used. Brush hair from the ends to the roots; start with untangling the knots at the ends, then work your way to the mid-section, and finally to the roots. Do not yank your comb through thick knots.
4. Shampoo your scalp only. When shampooing, apply the product only to the scalp and allow your hair to hang down on your back. When rinsing off the shampoo, the product will run down the length of the hair. This process should be enough to cleanse the ends of the hair without damaging it. Rinse hair in cold water since hot water removes moisture from hair, leaving it rough and dry.
5. Do not rub wet hair with a towel. Hair is at its weakest when it is wet, so it should be treated with care. Instead of rubbing wet hair with a towel, wrap the towel around wet hair and gently squeeze to absorb the excess water.
6. Apply conditioner to the ends of hair. After shampooing, ensure that you apply conditioner to the moisture-thirsty ends of the hair and let it soak for a while. Wash out most of the conditioner but let the ends retain some of it to prevent them from drying out.
7. Use blow dryers sparingly. Blow drying is a harsh process that strips the hair of moisture. Avoid direct heat on the ends of the hair; use a brush to guide the blow dryer through the ends of your hair once the roots and the mid-section is dry. Use thermal protectant serums before blow drying.
8. Wear a hat to protect from sun exposure. Before stepping out into the harsh sun, tie hair up into a bun (if possible) and wear a hat or a scarf to protect it. The ultraviolet rays of the sun can damage the ends of the hair, causing dryness and split ends. Choose a conditioner that has added sun protection factor (SPF) for more protection.
9. Use hair-friendly hair bands. The rubber band is the worst thing that can be used to tie hair up; it leads to breakage and split ends faster than any other accessory. A scrunchie is the best type of hair band; it can hold up hair without causing damage or tugging at it.
10. Invest in a water softening system at home. Hard water damages hair and causes excessive breakage. Chlorine in water also causes dry and brittle hair. Water softening system and water filters can solve the problem.
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