split endsNearly everyone gets splits ends. What many people may not realize is that there are actually different types of split ends and a variety of ways to prevent and repair them.

  1. What Are Split Ends?

They are a condition that causes individual hairs to split or fray at the ends. Split ends occur when the outer layer of the hair, the cuticle, becomes damaged. The middle layer of hair is made of proteins that can then begin to unravel. The medical term for split ends is known as trichoptilosis. Hair with split ends will often appear to be frizzy.

  1. What Are the Different Types of Split Ends?

There are several different kinds. According to Marie Claire, splits are generally categorized as the basic split, the mini, the fork in the road, the candle, the knot and the tree. The basic split and the mini are both Y-shaped at the ends and usually indicate that your hair is thirsty and needs more nourishment. The fork in the road is indicative of more damage and likely needs deep conditioning. The candle is where the outer cuticle of the hair has been lost, while the knot is something that normally happens to curly hair. The tree is where several strands are breaking off and a good trim is likely the best solution.

  1. What Causes Split Ends?

They are usually the result of external factors that can include environmental, mechanical, chemical and physical reasons.

Sometimes internal factors can contribute to split ends. These include hormonal changes or a poor diet. Even dry, scratchy skin on fingers or scratchy clothes can contribute to split ends.

  1. How Should You Prevent Split Ends?

There are several steps you can take to prevent split ends. Sheknows suggests washing your hair every other day instead of daily, and when you do shampoo, concentrate on the scalp. Bunching your hair together and scrubbing may cause damage to the ends. There are several other things that can be done to prevent the ends of your hair from breaking.

  1. How Can You Repair Split Ends?

Once you have them, the primary method of repair is usually to snip them off. There are, however, a few methods for repairing or concealing split ends. Deep conditioning on a regular basis can not only prevent split ends but may help repair them as well. Try using a natural moisturizer, such as coconut oil. Rubbing a little organic coconut on the ends of your hair after washing is a great way to condition. Healthline states that leave-in conditioners and hair masks may help to conceal split ends.

Unfortunately, split ends are a fact of life for most of us. There are, however, several preventative measures and methods of repair that can be taken to limit the damage.

Preventative hair care is very important in maintaining healthy hair. It’s almost impossible to fight off all of the elements on your own. At Genesis II, our hair and scalp treatment system is an advanced anti thinning, multi-therapeutic hair loss program designed specifically to stop hair loss and promote healthier, thicker hair. To schedule a free hair and scalp analysis call us at (315) 458-1074 or to contact us via email click here.

 

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