We all hate split ends. They can ruin your style and make your hair appear dull and lifeless. We’ve asked hairstylist Mark Hill to reveal all about split ends and how to avoid them.

What are Split Ends?

Split Ends are more common on longer hair; as the hair grows and reaches a certain length, the protective layer of the hair, the cuticle, becomes damaged and allows the fibres of the inner layers to fray. Although most often at the ends, splits and tears can happen anywhere along the hair causing breakage to leave the feathery appearance we all call split ends.

Book your appointment at the hairdressers

Just by snipping the ends off will mean your hair will be less likely to split, and will help stop causing any more damage to your hair.  Even if you are growing your hair, make sure you get a trim booked every 8 weeks to keep the ends of your hair healthy and strong.

Condition

Make sure your use a conditioner every time you shampoo your hair.  A conditioner will help close the hairs cuticles tightly after shampooing and using them actually helps prevent damage.  Some people stay away from conditioners as they think they make their hair too soft and floppy.  If this is you, then you are using the wrong conditioner.

Use a conditioning treatment

If you use heated appliances, have a colour regularly, or your hair feels brittle, apply a treatment at least once a week and leave for about 10 minutes, longer if you have the time.  Try to keep your hair warm whilst the treatment is on as this will increase the conditioning power, so either wrap your hair in a towel or lay in a hot bath.

Always use protection

Prevention is better than cure, so always use a Heat Protection Spray before you use any heated appliance. These will help to seal the cuticles even further to prevent split ends and will add a great shine to your hair.