Tackling Dry Split Ends
Dry, split ends are a nightmare for almost anyone with curly hair. Even if the majority of your hair is healthy, unmoisturized ends virtually cancel that out. Notice how we are advised to pay the most attention to our ends when washing and styling our hair- that’s because the ends are the most prone to dryness and breakage. Even washing your hair too much can have a negative effect on them as it can dry them out if washed consistently in a short period of time. And here’s the obvious- adding too much heat to your hair waiting too long in between trims and using aggressive coloring methods to dye it are the common causes of unhealthy ends.The fastest way to get rid of damaged ends is to trim them, however for other alternatives, take a look at the following tips:
Deep Condition Once or Twice A Week
Deep conditioning is a great way to maintain healthier ends and hair overall. If done properly and consistently, you can repair dry ends sooner. The most effective method for deep conditioning goes like this: shampoo, condition, detangle, add treatment, rake it through with a comb and fingers, put on a plastic cap, go under the dryer for 20-30 minutes, then rinse. It might sound like an extensive process to many but it should only take up at least an hour of your day (you can even schedule these days in advance! e.g. Sundays). You’re welcome to reduce the time under the hair dryer to 10-15 minutes, just keep in mind the heat helps penetrate the product into your scalp. Book Now
Protect Your Hair From The Sun
It’s almost inevitable to avoid the sun, so we’re not going to tell you to do that. However, you can use products with UV protection or wear a cap. Hair products with UV protection usually come in the form of a spray so you can spritz it onto your hair as a final coat. You can also leave more deep conditioner in your hair when rinsing as it also serves as a barrier between your hair and the beaming sun. If accessories are your thing, use a wrap or a hat to protect your curls.
Avoid Heat If You Can
Since most of you seeking these tips most likely have curly hair, we assume straightening it all the time is not your thing. If you never blow dry your hair then you shouldn’t really have a major issue with split ends from heat. For those that heat style their hair every few days or weeks, ensure you are using a safer method than just blow drying it right after the shower. Do rollers on your hair first and invest in thermal spray to protect your hair. Don’t hesitate to lower the heat function as well! Diffusing is a safe way to set your curl pattern in place and speeds up the drying time for curls no worries there unless your using mousses or gels filled with the “bad” types of alcohol. Then they don’t mix well. You will increase split ends by accelerating the dry time of the alcohol.
Hair Color
If you color your hair and you go to a specialized salon, you’re not really at a high risk of split ends- especially if you maintain your hair well. Maintaining your color properly every 6-8 weeks helps seal the cuticle especially when color balancing by adding glazes or adding shine treatments. If you feel comfortable with at-home box dyes because you don’t want to hurt your wallet, just make sure to read instructions. The first 15 minutes of the color processing is usually the roughest for the cuticle so prolonging your application can help and make sure to not overlap (mix and allow to sit out 15 minutes then apply to roots only and allow to sit for 30 min). For those that go to specialized hair salons, you’re taking a safer route but don’t forget to ask about the products being used and voice any concern you may have before your service begins.
Trim Your Ends- Big or Small Chop!
The most effective and quickest way to get rid of unhealthy ends and restore some of the bounce from your curls- even if your hair looks super short for the first few weeks. Many fear that “ugly, short” stage of when they first trim their ends but we can promise it’s worth it in the long run. Before you know it, your hair has already grown back to your desired length but you haven’t noticed because you’ve been looking in the mirror every day. Cutting your hair is the first step of the transitionary period and the most important. Don’t be afraid to go for a cut, your hair is begging you! Maintenance is key! After a “cut” maintenance of split free ends is crucial. A “trim” every 12 weeks or every season will keep you on track.
