Q&A

WHAT IS A SPLIT END?

A split end is when the hair separates in two starting at the end. It’s similar to a rope steadily unravelling from one end to the other. Just like the rope, the split end, if not stopped, will continue to worsen down to the base of the hair root.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?

Many things can damage your hair, including overuse of hot tools and chemical treatments (colouring, lightening, perm, etc.). But did you know that external aggressors are equally at fault? UVA/UVB rays, hard water, chlorine and wind are all bad for your hair’s health. Suffice to say that split ends are very common and at some point we all experience them!

CAN SPLIT ENDS BE REPAIRED?

The quick answer is no! When split ends appear, unfortunately, it’s already too late. Haircare products such as masks, serums and leave-ins will hide the damage but won’t repair the hair fiber. The only solution is to cut your hair. This is why it’s important to properly protect your hair before the irreparable happens.

HOW TO PREVENT BREAKAGE?

• Daily: Be sure to wear a hat or a scarf to protect yourself from the sun and wind. When exposure is unavoidable, apply a hair care product containing antioxidants that will block the sun’s rays.
• When styling: Lower the heat of your dryer, flat iron or curling iron to the proper level. To determine your ideal temperature, read our article on this subject. Before using hot tools, applying a heat protectant is essential.
• In the shower: Adjust your hair care routine to strengthen and nourish your hair. Be sure to use a hair mask weekly, then maintain hydration with a leave-in conditioner in spray or cream form.

A combination of microfibre towels and brushes designed for wet hair will be excellent allies when stepping out of the shower. They reduce friction and mechanical damage caused by overly vigorous detangling.

GET THE SCISSORS OUT!

The best habit remains regular visits to the hair salon to have your ends trimmed. Refreshing your lengths 3 or 4 times a year will keep them thick and healthy.

Between appointments, a tool such as Split-Ender Pro 2 can be highly useful in preventing split ends. This tool cuts all the hair ends without compromising overall length.

All these good habits will not only eliminate split ends but also enhance your hair’s look and texture over the long term.