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So Long, Split Ends!
Split ends—those feathery tips that make hair look dull and messy—are caused by everything from the weather to blow-drying and coloring. "Heat and harsh chemicals lift hair's protective cuticle layer, leaving strands susceptible to splitting," says Rodney Cutler of the Cutler/Redken Salons. The only cure is a good trim, but there are things you can do to prevent or temporarily heal frays.
Good Hair Day
→ brush this way
Instead of starting at the top, then tugging on the ends to get out knots, gather your hair mid-shaft (do a small section at a time) and gently brush out the ends first, Cutler recommends.
→ dry with caution
To help the cuticle lie flat, Cutler suggests using a heat-protecting product before blow-drying and pointing the nozzle downward. Finish with a blast of cold air to reseal the cuticle.
→ pull back gently
A fabric hair tie is best, suggests NYC hair stylist Sarah Potempa. Or choose a wrapped elastic without a metal closure, which can get caught in your hair. Also, apply conditioner where the tie will be—hydrated hair is less likely to split.
Hair Savers
1. Paddle brushes have rounded bristles that are spaced farther apart for a gentler touch. The bristles in this brush are flexible, too, to prevent snagging. Goody Ouchless Paddle Brush, $8.29; at Walmart
2. Silicone smooths the cuticle layer and keeps hair safe from heat damage. Aussie Split-End Protector, $3.49; at drugstores
3. This creamy conditioner temporarily binds split ends while hydrating strands to prevent future frizzes. Nexxus Pro-Mend Split End Binding Daily Conditioner, $14.99; at drugstores
We Asked, You Answered: What's your go-to solution for split ends?
1. I rinse my hair with rosemary tea once a week to strengthen it. - AMANDA ARMSTEAD, TROY, MI
2. I massage olive oil through my hair once a month to keep it super hydrated and prevent breakage. - JANICE COX, MEDFORD, OR
3. It's all about maintenance.I trim my ends every six weeks and condition my hair daily. - CHRISTINE JONES, SANGRE GRANDE TOWN, SAINT ANDREW, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
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