Six Natural Remedies for Damaged Split Ends
One of the most common hair problems for women are dry and split ends, which happens when the hair fibers open on the ends.
Split ends are caused by weakened hair fibers that separate. They look as if the hair has split into two, or like the same strand of hair has several divisions to it. It could also occur when the strand of hair does not separate, but simply becomes empty in the middle, which climbs up the hair.
What causes them?
Split ends generally appear when hair is damaged or dry as a result of heat exposure from flat irons, driers, hair pins, or even just sun exposure. This generally happens in long hair, which is more susceptible to damage.
Learn to Prevent Split Ends
It’s not easy to repair hair fibers once the tips split. There is no product that can healthily rejoin the fibers. This generally means that the damage is irreversible, but you can prevent it from spreading or continue to develop, by preventing split ends.
Protect your hair from heat sources, like irons, driers, or other devices for brushing your hair. Try to use these items less frequently, and use products that protect your hair from the heat.
Protect your hair from the sun. Use sunblock if you’re going to be exposed to the sun for long periods of time. There are sunblocks made specifically for hair.
Cut your hair regularly, especially if you already have split ends. This will prevent the strand from continuing to split.
Avoid using chemical products like dyes, which dry hair out.
If you’re used to swimming with some regularity, use a cap and/or oil your hair with a special product to avoid damaging your hair.
Remember that your hair is more susceptible to damage when it is when. That’s why you should avoid wringing it out roughly, or brushing when it is wet.
Be gentle when brushing your hair. Try to brush each knot out individually. Once out, then brush your hair.
Masks for Split Ends
Currently there are several products that can be used to improve the way your hair looks and for protecting your ends. However, treatments that are designed to seal or repair split ends are expensive, and also don’t truly repair the damage. That’s why it’s perhaps a better idea to use natural remedies.
Papaya Mask
To prepare a papaya mask, you will need one medium or small, ripe papaya. Remove the skin and seeds, blend the pulp into a papaya puree. Add half a cup of plain yogurt and mix into a paste. Use the mask over your entire hair, covering everything from the ends to the root. Allow to work for 30 minutes, then wash your hair as normal. Repeat twice a week.
Avocado Mask
It’s very easy to make an avocado mask. Simply use the pulp from one avocado, add one teaspoon of olive oil to make your hair silkier, and then moisten your hair with a bit of water. Scoop the mask into your hands and apply from the roots to the tips, while gently massaging. Allow to set for 30 minutes before taking a shower, then wash your hair as normal. We recommend using this 2 to 3 times a week, depending on the extent of damage.
Oils for Dry Ends
Some oils can be beneficial for hair, helping with moisture and thereby preventing split ends.
Castor oil
Take a bit of oil and apply it to your fingertips. Cover everything from the roots to the ends. Wrap your hair and cover it with a shower cap. Allow to work for 30 minutes. Once this time has passed, you may wash your hair.
Olive oil
This is generally an excellent hair moisturizer and is easy to use. All you need to do is take a bit of olive oil in your hands and spread it around your hair, from the roots to the ends. Cover with a bath cap and allow to act for 30 minutes. Then wash as normal.
Argon oil
This oil can strengthen, moisturize, and even repair damaged hair. It also helps fight frizz. Take a bit of argon oil and spread it around your scalp in a massage, moving down towards the tips once done. Try not to use too much. Once done, wrap your head in a warm towel, and allow to work for 30 minutes. Remove your towel and brush your hair before shampooing.
Coconut oil
This is a powerful hair moisturizer, but don’t use too much. Take 2 tablespoons of oil in our fingers and gently massage it from the roots to the tips. If you tend to have dry, brittle ends, apply the oil to this area, covering completely. Lastly, allow to set for 20 to 30 minutes and wash your hair with warm water. Your hair will be better after the first application.