Split End and Hair Loss

Splitting of ends is normally a problem of dry or combination hair. Split Ends occur when the cuticle is damaged and the fibres of the cortex unravel. The hair is dry, brittle and prone to tangling and can split at the end or anywhere along the shaft. Split ends are more common when the hair is dry or brittle. Excessive dying or vigorous brushing can cause split ends. The main cause of split end is during the long stay of hair on the scalp, the hair is exposed to innumerable physical and chemical traumas. This factors damages the hair because hair is a dead structure that lacks the power of self-repair. This leads to gradual wearing down of the cuticle scales and these are totally lost at the tips of the hair which results in split ends. There is no other effective cure for split ends.

Split end are the result of chemical products such as hair color, relaxers etc. The best way to get rid of spilt ends is to cut off hair. Washing your hair, squeeze the water out and absorb the rest with a thick towel. Never use a dryer too near the hair, or set it on too high a temperature. Keep brushing to a minimum since it promotes breakage. Brushing wet hair is a definite no-no; use a wide-toothed comb when hair is wet. Minimize the use of heated appliances. Try conditioners and serums that are designed to seal split ends temporarily and give resistance to further splitting. Avoid vent brushes with plastic bristles. These can cause further damage by ripping through the hair. Protect hair when heat-styling. Apply a leave-in conditioner. Wear a hat to minimize sun damage.

To get rid of split ends, take a small section of your hair and carefully distort it gently in a downward motion. Gently comb out your wet hair with a wide-toothed comb. To control the problem of falling hair, massage with olive oil. Dip towel in hot water and then cover your head with that towel. Use fabric covered elastics or scrunchies rather than elastic bands. Eat a healthy diet (protein, iron, vitamin C and vitamin E are essential for healthy hair). Apply a little lemon juice with 4 tablespoon of coconut milk to the scalp. Wash the hair after an hour. Repeat this every week. The paste made from powdered seeds of shana with coconut / sesame / castor oil is used as hair tonic. Take a multi vitamin supplement to ensure your hair is getting all the necessary nutrients it needs.

Split End Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. Use a leave in conditioner to avoid tangles and moisturize your hair.

2. After washing your hair, squeeze the water out and absorb the rest with a thick towel.

3. Gently comb out your wet hair with a wide-toothed comb.

4. Limit your use of styling products (such as gel, mousse hairspray) that could build up on your hair.

5. Avoid or at least limit heat from curling irons, blow driers, etc.

6. Use fabric covered elastics or scrunchies rather than elastic bands.

7. Always use coated or covered rubber bands.

8. Eat a healthy diet (protein, iron, vitamin C and vitamin E are important for healthy hair).