Minimizing Split Ends for Longer Hair

Split ends are so frustrating, especially for those trying to get their hair on the right track! Split ends are tricky because even after you clip them, new, vulnerable ends are now exposed that are destined to split, and split FAST if you aren't careful with their care. Of course clipping the ends will get rid you of splits, but you will also lose length if you clip too much or too often. Also, don't buy into the hype that cutting split ends will make your hair grow faster and thicker, this is only a myth...clipping the ends doesn't magically make thicker hair sprout out your scalp faster, so don't go running to the salon every 4-8 weeks to get your ends trimmed. A little TLC will help to keep your end healthier and stronger, longer... allowing you to see much more overall growth. Here are a few things to do in order to minimize split ends: Wear protective styles: Protective styles are styles that hide or protect the last few inches of your hair. During extreme weather like harsh cold or scorching heat, it's good to keep your hair protected. Wearing your hair in buns, braids or two strand twists will keep split ends at bay. Keeping them covered up with a hat or scarf made with gentle material such as satin or silk will also protect them from harsh elements. Minimize heat usage: When using heat, most people turn the dial up higher than needed in order to achieve the desired look. On top of high heat, they go over the hair more than needed to straighten it. Turn down the dial and pass over the hair once, again, if absolutely necessary. Also, when blow drying the hair, don't use the highest setting or dry the hair completely. Leaving the hair a little damp will seal in or aid in moisture. Always use a heat protector: Heat protectors will serve as a barrier between your hair and the appliance. Use one each and every time you apply heat to your hair. No Brushes: Brushes can tug, pull and rip the hair, causing excessive splitting. If you can avoid brushes do, otherwise use 100% boar bristle brushes, or those made of high quality material, specifically for detangling the hair. It's also not a good idea to combine excessive brushing with extreme heat of a blow dryer. I personally haven't used a brush in 5 years or a blow dryer in 3. Use Wide-Tooth Combs: Using a wide-tooth comb will make detangling the hair easier, thus cutting down on pulling and tugging of the hair. You also want to make sure that the comb is of high quality material. Combs that have a seam down each tooth, can cause snagging, so check the seams of your comb before using it, it should be seamless. Strengthening the hair: Protein is the main component to strengthening the hair; replenish it weekly (or every other week). Using a good protein based deep conditioner will help keep the hair strong. Stronger hair has a more difficult time splitting and breaking. (Be careful not to use products that contain protein too often, as this can lead to protein overload and cause excessive dryness) Hydrating the hair regularly: Apply a good moisturizer to the ends of your hair, the last 3-4' will aid in flexibility in the strands. You may also want to put a humidifier in your office and home to help keep the hair hydrated during the dry winter months. Using the Baggying Method: This is when you put the hair in a ponytail, hydrate the entire ponytail with a moisturizer and then wrap it in saran wrap, or some other kind of plastic. Most people will then apply a 'phony pony', or wrap the ponytail, or entire head in a scarf or hat to hide the plastic. These are a few tips to helping to minimize split ends. These less your hair splits, the healthier it will be and the longer it can grow.