Split ends in the hair are a scourge for most women. Whether you notice them in your hair or your daughter's hair, we explain where these split ends come from and how to get rid of them.
What are forks?
Split ends are an early sign of damage to your hair. The end of a strand splits into two or more, making it look dry, rough and frizzy. That's when you know you have split ends. Scientifically, this phenomenon is called trichoptilosis .
What do forks look like?
There are several types of forks . Healthy hair looks like a straight line, while a regular split end looks like a "Y." This means that the end of the strand of hair has split in two. If you put your hair forward and look at your highlights, you can identify if you have any.
What are the different types of forks?
There are around 16 different types of forks . They are named based on their appearance. Today we're going to look at ten basic types of split ends, so here we go!
- Plain or Traditional Fork : This is the most common forked end that looks like a Y.
- Triple : As the name suggests, these ends split into three small ends and occur due to a weakened cuticle layer.
- Feathering : A feathering appearance on individual strands may appear due to excessive damage and not cutting your hair frequently.
- Shaft : A tree-like split end appears due to sun exposure and rough hair management.
- Double Y : A double Y occurs when one side of an already forked end splits into two others.
- Long : Long split ends are those that are left untreated and therefore split higher up on the shaft.
- Baby : A small fork refers to the very beginning of the appearance of a fork. This is when the fork is still relatively small.
- Frayed : Frayed split ends are fragile strands whose cuticle has become detached following significant damage.
- White spots : Split ends usually look like they have white spots. This is because the hair is very damaged. They can also be caused by chemical burns.
- Incomplete Fork : This one looks like a needle. The end is still attached, but the middle part splits in two. It occurs due to excessive styling and use of thermal products without taking the necessary precautions first.
How to get rid of your split ends?
And we finally get to the important stuff. After identifying the type of ends you have, how do you go about treating them? Let's look at some ways to achieve this.
Trim your hair!
The first and most obvious remedy is to cut your hair and get those split ends trimmed before they get worse! It's also the quickest way to get rid of them. Don't worry, you don't have to cut the hair you want.
You can use a device that removes split ends , also called a split ends brush !
Also discover: How Know if he must cut THE Spikes hair ?
Avoid exposing hair to the sun.
Sun exposure is often the cause of split ends and other hair damage. To avoid suffering from it, use sun protection serums or creams and, as much as possible, cover your hair from the sun with a hat or scarf.
Heat styling damages the hair fiber!
Excessive use of heat and styling products can lead to split ends in your hair . To avoid this, use tools like straighteners, curling irons, hair dryers and curlers as little as possible. When using them, consider using a heat protection serum or cream first.
Use the right comb
Believe it or not, this can play a role in the formation of split ends . Hard plastic brushes can cause more damage. So when shopping for a brush, look for a flat, soft brush or use a wide-toothed comb.
How to get rid of split ends without cutting your hair?
If you don't want to opt for cutting, there are specific methods to reduce the appearance of split ends . These methods include:
- Deep conditioning, hair spas and oils provide extra hydration to your ends and help reduce their growth.
- Hair masks made from egg, honey, coconut oil, aloe vera, yogurt, coconut milk, banana, papaya, avocado and other home remedies are famous help treat split ends.
- Don't wash your hair too often.
- A healthy, balanced diet can do a lot for the health of your hair and skin.
- Drink enough water.
- Avoid using hot water on your hair while showering or washing.
FAQs
1. Can split ends stop hair growth?
No, they do not prevent your hair from growing. But they can cause your hair to break easily, which can make it look like the length isn't increasing.
2. Is it bad to cut forks individually?
Yes ! Pulling or scratching them is pretty bad because it can cause permanent damage to your hair shaft. We understand that this may be tempting, but don't do it!
3. Is it possible to repair forks?
You can't fix split ends , but you can take precautions to prevent them from forming and use the methods above to help reduce their appearance. To get rid of them completely, simply cut them off.
4. Do split ends mean my hair is unhealthy?
They are an early sign of damage to your hair. This doesn't necessarily mean your hair is unhealthy. However, if left unchecked, they can reach your roots. If so, it can have negative consequences for your hair. It's best to treat them as soon as you notice them.
