Split ends in the hair, also called split ends or trichoptilosis among scientists, indicate that the hair is not healthy. They are usually a sign that strands are dry and brittle . Here we explain how to get rid of split ends for good !
What are forks?
Split ends - which can often even be triple or quadruple - are nothing more than the hair cuticle (outer layer of the hair shaft) opened and divided into several parts. 
With the outer layer split into micro-pieces, the cortex (inner part of the hair shaft) is fully exposed, meaning the hair is much weaker, dry, lifeless and susceptible to any type of external damage.
It is there, in the center of the hair fiber , that water is concentrated, which provides natural hydration to the hair and the nutrients necessary to keep it beautiful, soft and healthy.
When the cuticle opens, the inner fiber of the hair dries out, leaving a dead end at the end and more hair growth along the shaft.
Also discover: How to know if you have split ends !
What causes split ends?
To find out why your hair is splitting and what the problem is, you need to carefully analyze your daily habits. We explain to you what can affect the appearance of split ends of hair .
Bad hair care
Cosmetic brands produce a large number of different shampoos , conditioners and masks: for dry and brittle hair, to add shine or volume , for blondes , brunettes , redheads , etc. The list is endless!
Knowing what exactly your hair needs is sometimes not easy. And poorly chosen care products will not help treat split ends but will even worsen their condition. Products with Sulfate should be avoided!
Frequent colorings
If you choose a color whose tones are very different from yours, then regular visits to the salon cannot be avoided! Many colorings are aggressive and make the hair fragile and dry , which leads to the appearance of split ends .
Permanent
Curling , like coloring , is a damaging procedure for the structure of the hair . If you repeat it often, you should find a master who will choose a gentle composition that does not dry out your hair very much.
The use of thermal devices
Overuse of straighteners, hair dryers, curlers, curling irons, etc. causes the hair to undergo significant temperature changes and weaken it.
The heat from these tools dehydrates the hair and makes it prone to breakage and split ends .
Environment
Weather conditions: temperature, wind and rain influence the structure of the hair .
Cold, dry air , for example, can actually lift the cuticle of the hair strand slightly. As a result, moisture has no chance of getting stuck in the hair shaft causing breakage and frizz .
UV rays from the sun and pollution also contribute to hair damage and split ends .
Improper hair brushing
Did you know that you shouldn't brush dry hair ? Hair is hygroscopic and can absorb up to a third of its own weight in water. They are heavier when wet, so they break and tear off much more easily - don't forget that!
In emergency situations, when you need to dry and comb your hair at the same time, apply strengthening oil to the strands. A professional-grade treatment will seal split ends and allow the brush to glide through your hair with ease.
Sports-related hair damage
Physical activity helps, but a tight ponytail or bun causes significant damage to your hair . Swimming is also bad for the hair cuticle , and chlorine also dries it out.
Poor diet and bad habits
The condition of your hair depends on the amount of water and micronutrient -rich foods you consume. If you have split ends , you may need to pay more attention to your diet. Of course, no one says that you need to urgently switch to a raw food diet or other fad diet, but limiting fast foods, sufficient fluid intake and a balanced diet will only benefit you (and your hair).
Genetic
If your hair is splitting often and nothing is happening about it, the problem is most likely genetic. We advise you to choose shorter haircuts.
Also read: 10 Tips to Prevent Split Ends !
Types of forks
Hair split ends are categorized based on their causes. We therefore determine 16 types of hair split ends in total!
Some split ends are normal and appear due to natural hair growth and environmental factors. Others can seriously harm your hair.
Split ends are maps that show the damage you are doing to your strands.
If you have ever looked closely, you must have noticed that each split end is different. If not, trust our beauty expertise. The Boutique Coiffure team has put on its Sherlock hat to bring you all the information you need about split ends .
To our dismay, we discovered that there are more than five types of split ends and that each of them arises from a specific hair damage.
Below we've listed the five most common types of split ends, what causes them, and how to fix them.
The basic fork, or Y fork
Basic splitting does not indicate that the hair is damaged. They appear if your hair is dry or there is friction, or simply not enough hair care.
The cortical cells are still held together at this stage, but they are beginning to separate. Now is the time to act and seal your split ends before they get worse!
Also called a double fork or Y-fork , this is one of the most common types of split ends. It is easily recognizable and appears when the hair cuticle is damaged.
Causes : Tension and friction are the two main causes of this type of split ends. Vigorous brushing and daily wear and tear are the main culprits.
How to cure it ? Invest in a good quality conditioner that will provide the necessary nourishment. Also include nuts rich in zinc, such as walnuts and pecans, in your diet.
The triple fork or the fork
The triple fork shows that the hair fiber is more damaged. Your hair could benefit from masks, treatments and deep care.
It is also important to cut damaged hair.
A slightly advanced version of the basic split end, this type of split ends means the hair fiber is damaged and needs serious help.
Causes : Lack of regular hydration and climate are to blame for split hair type .
How to cure it ? Treat your hair to masks and deep conditioning treatments once a week.
Tree-shaped split ends
Split ends can be recognized by the fact that the hair separates more on one side. When your hair splits and the branches separate, you need a trim.
From this point on, you need additional care and protection. And a haircut!
Resembling the branches of a tree, this type of split hair indicates more extensive damage. If not repaired in time, it can become quite intense and make your hair extremely frizzy.
Causes : Sun damage and harsh brushing lead to tree-like split ends.
How to repair them ? Use a wide-toothed comb that won't snag or pull on the ends, and don't stay uncovered in the sun for too long.
The Plume fork
Rough styling and chemical damage can cause hair to split on one side of the shaft in several places.
This is the feather-like forked end.
This is the most feared fork of all. This is a sign that your hair may be beyond repair.
Causes : Frequent chemical coloring and uneven haircuts.
How to cure it ? Make an appointment for a haircut as soon as possible! Tie your hair into a bun to minimize friction on the ends.
The forked knot or fairy knot
Are certain hair types more prone to split ends and tangles? Well yes !
Curly hair tends to be prone to tangling. From this point on, the hair breaks where the knot developed.
We call this phenomenon the fairy knot !
This is the most serious knot of all! The hair strands become tangled to form a small knot at the end , causing breakage and rough hair.
Causes : Excessive dryness of hair and strong winds.
How to cure it ? Use a brush specifically designed for curly/thick hair. Don't forget to use serums and have hair spas done regularly.
Also discover: other types of hair split ends !
Mini-forks, or baby forks
Although it sounds cute, it's not. Split ends are an early sign that your hair is separating. Although your hair is not beyond repair, it is craving healing.
Don't ignore this sign, and be sure to splurge on conditioner and hair oils to rehydrate your tresses.
The incomplete fork
You can recognize an incomplete split end when the outer cuticle shows signs of weakening in one area but has not yet separated.
The forked end in “Double Y” or double fork
Look at your section of hair between your fingers.
The hair fiber split into two branches, and each brand split into two again? You are dealing with the "double Y".
The candle split end or the tapered split end
All hair types can reach this point. The split end taper shows that the hair cuticle has deteriorated. Although there is no splitting, your hair is damaged and more vulnerable as the cuticle comes loose.
You may notice this type of split ends on chemically damaged hair.
The long fork
Another type of split end that's just waiting to happen: the long split end indicates that the hair shaft is starting to separate at a specific location.
This type of split ends usually occurs when using hair accessories that weaken the hair in a specific area.
The deep split end
Deep split ends indicate damaged hair. You need to pay attention to it.
We speak of a deep split end when the strand has separated in two, or in the shape of a Y, very high up on the hair shaft.
Hair thickening due to split ends
Your strands may be intact. But if your texture changes, becomes thicker, expect splitting and damage.
Split ends derived
Chemical treatments and extreme styling can cause this type of split ends. Your hair has become thicker along the shaft and has stuck back together.
The right angle fork
Your hair doesn't need to part to signal that it needs help. An angled bend tells you there are problems.
The white-spotted fork
When you notice visible white spots in your hair fiber here and there, it is chemical burn damage.
Hair frizzing from split ends
High temperature styling, excessive coloring, mechanical stress such as stretching the hair to its breaking point, dryness, environmental pollutants and lack of care can cause the hair shaft to wrinkle.
It's like your hair is developing wrinkles. They are always frizzy and they are rough and brittle to the touch.
Also discover: How to know if you have split ends !
Discover the fork cutter!
The anti-split end machine is a hairdressing tool that eliminates split ends without any effort!
Do split ends prevent hair from growing?
No. Split ends don't stop your hair from growing longer. As long as you don't have a medical condition that causes hair loss, your hair will always grow according to your individual growth cycle, whether you have split ends or not. What split ends do is prevent you from maintaining your length.
When it comes to having longer hair, it's length retention, not the amount or speed of hair growth, that is most important.
Split ends can also cause breakage, and it may seem like your hair isn't growing because it's breaking and splitting faster than your scalp can produce new lengths.
You need to trim split ends to prevent them from moving up the hair shaft, which would require you to cut your hair even shorter to eliminate the damage.
Do the forks go up?
Split ends are a sign of damaged, often unhealthy hair. It is a problem.
Once split ends, your hair will continue to split more and more along the shaft all the way to the root. That's when you're in big trouble, because split ends make your already damaged hair more susceptible to further damage and breakage.
Split ends affect the appearance of your hair, making it look worn, tired and frizzy. It's a bad sign.
What are the solutions against split ends?
Do you want to get rid of split ends? So stop some habits now.
Preventive actions against split ends
Ending certain hair care habits can help you fight against the appearance of split ends .
Very hot baths
The very high temperature opens the cuticles too much and eliminates all the water necessary for hydrating the hair. The result ? They are exposed to the environment and, as a result, they dry out.
You can use a hot temperature when washing your hair, but stick to cold water for the last rinse. Cold water closes the cuticles and makes your hair shinier.
Hair dryer without thermal protection
Using a hair dryer without a heat protectant will make your split ends worse . The rule also applies to other heat tools, such as curlers, flat iron, diffuser, rotating brush, etc.
The product creates a thermo-protective barrier against excessive heat. Also remember to keep the hair dryer at least 20 cm away from the hair to avoid the risk of burning the strands.
Combing your hair the wrong way
Yes, there is a right way to style your hair, especially if your locks tend to have a lot of tangles. When combing wet hair, it is recommended to use a leave-in product and always start at the ends and work your way up to the roots.
Hair is more fragile when wet and when detangling it can break more easily. Choose a wide-toothed comb and comb them gently .
Chemical hair treatments without moderation
Excessive use of chemicals and lack of attention to your hair can cause many split ends . For straightening processes, such as gradual brushing and coloring, to work, it is necessary to open the hair cuticle to inject the chemical. In other words, hair becomes ultra-sensitive and exposed .
This is why you should only do them with a hairdresser you trust. Also respect the intervals between treatments.
The best anti-split treatments
Lack of hydration and excessive heat are two factors that act as hair aggressors.
To treat dehydration, you need to understand that hair absorbs moisture if the environment is humid, and if it is dry, it loses it [this is called hygroscopy ].
- If hair loses water, you need a moisturizing product to help it retain it and restore suppleness.
- Whereas, to feed them, you need to stock up on natural fats, proteins and lipids.
How to choose your treatment against split ends?
If your hair is porous, dull and frizzy? You need to hydrate them and smooth the scales that cover the surface of the hair so that it loses its porosity and the light reflects all of its shine .
→ Look for water-based formulas, ultra-hydrating shampoos and restorative treatments to smooth cuticles and control frizz.
Thick, brittle and split ends? Your hair needs NUTRITION. This type of hair requires oilier and mainly oil-based treatments. But they must first be deeply hydrated so that the water can transport the nourishing agents.
→ In this case, restorative masks are essential.
Try the Magical Treatment Anti-Fork Mask !
What hair repair products should contain
Products intended to moisturize and repair hair and split ends must above all be made from natural and plant-based ingredients such as olive, argan or castor oil, honey or ingredients based on fruits like figs.
- Almond oil , rich in proteins, minerals and vitamins A, B1, B2 and B6. These vitamins seal the surface of the fibers and soothe irritated and itchy scalp.
- Aloe Vera Oil to strengthen hair and prevent hair loss. Baobab and coconut oil, which can be used as natural hair masks once a week. Likewise, Vit E-Alpha-tocopherol will be a powerful antioxidant.
Additionally, avocado masks or serums are beneficial for hair health, as they are a source of vitamins A, C, E and K, magnesium, fatty acids, potassium and protein.
Homemade anti-fork recipes
These wonderful grandmother's recipes will help you get rid of unsightly split ends . These natural hair masks are inexpensive, easy to make, and use ingredients you can find in your kitchen.
1. Egg Shampoo
Eggs are one of the best allies for the beauty of hair, as well as for its health. This shampoo will help close split ends in no time!
For this recipe you need to mix a liter of hot water, an egg and 30 grams of fresh rosemary sprigs. Boil the water, add the rosemary and leave to infuse. When cool, pour in the beaten egg and apply it as you would your regular shampoo. Next, use conditioner.
2. Papaya treatment
Remove the skin and seeds from half a papaya. Mix with half a cup of natural yogurt and apply to hair. Leave it on for half an hour, covering the hair with a shower cap. Rinse and wash as usual.
3. Avocado Cream for Split Ends
Treating Split Ends of Hair with Avocado
Peel an avocado and use the flesh, without the pit. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Apply the mixture to the ends of the hair and leave it on for about 15 minutes. Then wash as usual.
4. Tonic oil
Heat a few tablespoons of oil (olive oil is recommended) and set aside. Coat the ends with the oil, cover the hair with a shower cap and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse with a good amount of hot water and finish with a jet of cold water to close the follicles.
You'll be amazed at how deeply the oil hydrates and helps improve split ends.
5. Tonic beer
This tonic is the favorite of the famous "naturists". It is advisable to do this on weekends or during vacations, as the aroma of the drink will stay in your head for a few hours or days. However, since it delivers such good results, you won't mind. Dip the ends of your hair in a container of beer and rinse.
6. Aloe vera mask
Aloe vera is a wonderful ingredient for preventing and treating split ends. Cut a piece of this plant (a stem), extract its pulp or sap and apply it to your hair, from the middle down. Do this when your hair is damp for the best effect. Leave on for 30 minutes and wash as usual with shampoo and conditioner.
7. Homemade Butter Mask
This natural mask will hydrate your hair. For this recipe you need about 20 grams of melted butter, half a glass of apple cider vinegar and a tablespoon of lemon juice.
Apply the butter to the ends of your hair, cover them with cling film and let them sit for 20 minutes. Separately, mix the lemon juice with the vinegar and a little hot water. Rinse the ends with this solution.
8. Almond Oil and Honey Mask
We love this mask because it deeply hydrates, fights split ends and leaves hair silky!
Mix three tablespoons of almond oil and two tablespoons of honey. Apply to the ends and leave on for 25 minutes, then rinse your hair with plenty of warm water and wash as usual. In the evening, you can apply pure olive oil to the ends (before going to bed, twice a week), to increase the results.
If your hair is too damaged, the easiest way to get rid of split ends is to cut your hair.
Also discover: The Best Hair care against Forks !
Anti Split Split Treatments
There Velaterapia or burning of forks !
Velaterapia or candle haircut is a process that involves separating hair into small sections, twisting them, then passing them under a flame .
The combustion brings out damaged parts of the hair, seals split ends , which prevents future breakage.
The strands are then trimmed, and the rest of the hair receives a deep treatment.
Burning opens the hair follicle , making it more receptive to nutrients, making the treatment even more effective.
The treatment lasts three and a half hours, and is carried out approximately every four months.
Learn more about: The Velaterapia and Pyrophoresis : THE processes of burning forks !
Hair Dusting
Hair Dusting is a method where you do not cut lengths, but use scissors to clean up the broken ends of hair that are starting to separate. This technique prevents the hair from continuing to split along the hair shaft.
With Hair Dusting , you cut into the hair rather than trimming the ends, and you can do this whenever you notice split ends forming.
Click here to learn more about: Hair Dusting
Cut the forks
Regular and frequent trims every six weeks will prevent your hair from having split ends .
Also discover: How to Know Whether to Cut the Ends of Hair.
If you don't want to mess with length, invest in a professional split end trimmer that eliminates split ends without reducing hair length .
In conclusion
To eliminate split ends, keep a healthy hair care routine, making a hair schedule, and use products that keep hair hydrated and with the cuticles closed.
Don't forget to take care of your diet and lifestyle.
Finally, get regular cuts either at the hairdresser or with a split end cutter !
