Fashion
How To Stop Split Ends Without A Salon Visit
Whether your hair is curly or pin straight, thick or thin, we all fall victim to the annoyingness of split ends. When you just don't have the time (or heck, budget) to get a trim, you can still learn how to stop split ends without a salon visit. Though nothing but scissors will truly eliminate all split ends, a little DIY effort will combat the damage and get your hair looking radiant again.
So why do split ends happen in the first place? Amy Abramite, creative director and stylist at Chicago's Maxine Salon, explained to AOL, "Split ends occur when the protective outer layer of the hair cuticle wears away because of external stressors, such as heat styling and salon chemical services. Once the internal structure of the hair is exposed, it becomes weakened, dehydrated and damaged, causing split ends." I also doubt all of my tightly pulled top knots are helping matters...
This article is especially important to me right now as I just went to trim and color my hair and the price was INSANE. I left with newly violet brunette locks, but knew I'd have to scout out alternative ways to keep my hair look healthy until I saved up for a full cut. The tips below have given me the most success thus far!
1. Use A Wide Tooth Comb
Detangling Comb, $8, Sephora
Combs with a lot of little bristles can cause breakage. Opt for a wide tooth comb and gently brush through when you step out of the shower.
2. Get The Right Nutrients
You are what you eat, and getting enough biotin and folic acid in your diet is especially important for strong, shiny strands. Leafy greens are packed with folic acid, while lots of biotin can be found in lentils and walnuts. Nom.
3. Apply Thermal Protectant Spray
Thermal Creation Heat Tamer Spray, $7, TRESemme
Hot styling tools (yes, even that ionic blow dryer) gradually burn your hair and can lead to split ends. If you have to use styling tools, always spritz your strands with thermal protectant spray first.
4. Avoid Metal Hair Ties
The Brandy Hair-Tie Set, $5.50, Luulla
Ever taken out a metal clasp hair tie and discovered hairs tangled up in it? Metal and rubber bands snag your hair and, beyond straight up yanking out full strands, cause smaller breaks that eventually cause split ends. Opt for metal and grip-free alternatives that are gentler on your hair.
5. Deep Condition Regularly
Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, $20.49, Kirkland Signature
Deep conditioning masks lubricate your hair and create a barrier between it and harsh weather and pollutants. Aim to use a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week to keep strands hydrated. My favorite? A coconut oil hair mask! Just coat your hair in coconut oil for thirty minutes, and rinse and wash after.
6. Consider Leave-In Conditioner
Leave-In Conditioner, $12.39, Healthy Sexy Hair
On top of a weekly deep conditioning mask, a daily spritz of leave-in conditioner will extend the benefits of your mask and protect your hair from potential breakage everyday without weighing it down.
Want more beauty tips? Check out the video below, and be sure to subscribe to Bustle’s YouTube page for more hacks and tricks!
