Your Ultimate Split Ends Guide: Causes And Treatments

What are split ends?
Split ends or – if you want to be fancy about it – ‘trichoptilosis’ is when the end of your hair strand splits into two or more ‘branches’.

What causes split ends? The ends are the oldest part of your hair. Think of all the heat, chemicals , color, wear and tear, and extreme weather that have weakened the ends of your hair and caused your split ends. Don’t worry, we’ve got all the tips you need to make your hair happy again.

Are split ends bad?
Split ends are really common, so there’s no need to feel bad if you’ve got them. The best thing you can do now is to get them sorted. Luckily, split ends in hair are easy to treat and prevent – keeping your hair smooth, soft, and healthy.

Quick fix: how to hide split ends
Need a quick and instant fix for hair with split ends? Use a shine serum to add moisture and shine to temporarily disguise them. You could also whip hair into a chic low bun, tucking the ends away out of sight.

Short-term fix: how to get rid of split ends
Once a strand splits, it can’t fuse back together – which means it could be the perfect time to get yourself a stylish new haircut. While you wait for your split ends haircut, do your best not to pick at them. If the split moves up your hair shaft, your stylist will need to cut more of your length off to stop them coming back.

So, now you know how to get rid of split ends with a haircut, let’s find out how to treat your split ends and keep your hair looking strong and shiny.

What do split ends look like? Different types of split ends and treatments
There are lots of different types of split and each needs a slightly different type of care. Don’t worry; it’s not as complicated as it sounds. Check out our guide to the different kinds of split ends and how to treat them.

Long-term fix: How to prevent split ends
Of course, stopping split ends in their tracks is great. But what we really want to know is how to prevent those split ends in the first place?

Use the right products
Dove Celebrity Stylist Mark Townsend says, “The best way to prevent split ends in general is to keep your hair strong and moisturized. Hair is more likely to develop split ends when it’s dry and brittle. So I always recommend using a nutrient-rich shampoo and conditioner to make sure your hair is strong enough to withstand damage. I really like the Dove Hair Therapy Breakage Remedy Shampoo, Conditioner and Leave-On because they strengthen and nourish hair and offer 97% less breakage.”