How to deal with split ends?

Split ends are a common hair problem. Split ends can affect the appearance of your hair and even stop hair growth. How can you prevent split ends? Are they the only way to stop such damage? It’s not. The post below will show you how to reduce the chances of your split ends recurring. What are they? Continue reading to find out more!

What are Split Ends?

Split ends refer to the splitting of your hair shaft at the tips. It’s also called trichoptilosis, or «arrangement feathers in definite places.» When split ends aren’t taken care of, hair strands begin to break at various points, giving your hair the appearance of a feather.

What is the reason we have split ends? Below are the top causes.

Because of the texture and length of their hair, Africans are more likely to have split ends.

Why do you get split ends?

Split ends indicate that your hair has been damaged. Split ends can be caused by years of poor hair care, chemical treatments and improper brushing.

These can also happen if you’re not getting enough vitamins and minerals through food or supplements. The natural oils from the hair follicles cannot travel down the hair’s length, which can cause it to look frizzy and dry.

Neglecting to use natural conditioners externally can cause hair damage. You still have time to fix your hair.

Ways to get rid of split ends

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer and natural healer. Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acid, which allows it to penetrate hair quickly. It can moisturize and nourish your hair, and it is also great for fixing and preventing split ends.

• Coconut oil — 2 to 4 teaspoons

Use coconut oil to massage your hair, from the roots down to the ends. You should apply oil all the way to the ends. Cover your hair with a shower cap and clip it. It can be left on for up to an hour. Shampoo your hair in the morning to remove any oil. Do not dry your hair with a towel. Use a hair dryer only for dry hair.

This should be done once every 2-3 days.

2. Coconut Milk

This natural home remedy will give you the feeling of a professional hair salon. Coconut milk is rich in vitamin E, which prevents split ends from recurring, reduces frizz and hydrates hair. Your hair’s rough edges will be smoothened by medium-chain fatty acid. Hair growth is stimulated by vitamins C and B, as well as minerals calcium, iron and magnesium.

• Coconut milk — 2 to 4 teaspoons

Coconut milk can be taken in your palm. Apply it to your hair, from the roots to ends. Cover your hair with a shower cap. Cover it with a shower cap for at least 2 hours. Use a natural shampoo to rinse your hair.
Do not dry your hair with a towel. Use a hair dryer only for dry hair.

Every 2-3 days.

Tip: Coconut milk can be purchased in supermarkets and stored in the fridge. Coconut milk solidifies at low temperatures so keep it at room temp for a while to make it easier to use.

3. Fish oil

Numerous studies have shown that fish oils can reduce hair loss and stimulate hair growth. Another study found that fish oil can reduce split ends. This same study also found that fish oil works best when it is paired with olive oils and eggs.

• 1 tablespoon fish oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Whole eggs

Mix the olive oil with the fish oil. Mix in the whole egg, and beat it until smooth. Use the paste to thoroughly coat your hair. Apply it to the scalp. It should be left for at least an hour.

This process should be repeated every two weeks.

4. Argan Oil

Argan oil is also known as liquid gold. It is extracted from Argan kernels. It prevents split ends and reverses hair loss. Argan oil is a great rehydrating agent because of its vitamin E, antioxidants and fatty acids.

• 1 to 2 drops argan oil

Wash your hair with shampoo and then towel dry it. Apply one to two drops argan oil to your hair while it is still damp. Let it dry.

Argan oil can be used every time you shampoo. If you have too many styling tools or products, you can use argan oil between shampoos.

5. Castor Oil

Castor oil is low in molecular weight so it can penetrate the hair shaft. Castor oil repairs and rehydrates hair and reduces itching scalp. It also treats split ends.

• 2 to 4 teaspoons castor oil
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Mix two to four teaspoons castor oil and two teaspoons coconut oil. Use a tablespoon of the mixture to coat your palm. Use your hands to rub the mixture into your hair. Cover your hair with a shower cap and clip it. It should be left on for at least 2 hours. Use a shampoo that is herbal to rinse your hair. Do not dry your hair with a towel. Use a hair dryer only for dry hair.

This can be done 1-2 times per week.

6. Almond Oil

Almond oil can moisturize your hair and make it softer . This can also be used to treat split ends.

• Take 4-6 teaspoons of almond oil

In a small bowl, heat the almond oil. Use a tablespoon of the warm oil to massage your hair from the roots up. Use a circular motion to massage your scalp. Your hair should be combed. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for at least 2 hours. Rinse your hair with a natural shampoo. Do not dry your hair with a towel. Use a hair dryer only for dry hair.

This should be done once per week.

7. Honey Hair Mask

Honey is a natural way to maintain and regulate hair moisture. Honey mask prevents split ends by strengthening hair follicles, providing nutrition and hydration to the hair.

• Organic honey, 2-4 teaspoons
• 1 tablespoon coconut milk
• 3 tablespoons milk

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Apply the mixture to your hair, starting at the roots and ending at the ends. If your scalp is oily, avoid the roots. Cover your hair with a shower cap and clip it. Keep it on for at least 2 hours. Use a shampoo that is herbal to rinse your hair. Do not dry your hair with a towel. Use a hair dryer only for dry hair

This can be done 1-2 times per week.

8. Papaya Hair Mask

This natural remedy provides deep nourishment for your hair. The natural remedies of papaya, almond oil and yogurt prevent dry, itchy scalps, promote hair growth and reduce the chance of split ends.

• 1/2 cup mashed ripe papaya
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• 1 tablespoon almond oil

Make a paste of the papaya. In a bowl, combine the papaya pulp and yogurt with the almond oil. Apply the papaya oil to your hair, from the roots up to the ends. Your hair should be combed. Cover your hair with a shower cap, and leave it on for at least an hour. Wash your hair with shampoo and then towel dry it.

Do this two times per week.