What are split ends?
Split ends are essentially when a hair shaft splits in half or frays resulting in the ends of the hair forming a V shape rather than a single strand. This happens when the ends of your hair lack moisture. It's also important to note that the the ends of your hair are the oldest parts and therefore prone to general wear and tear.
As well as this, everyday haircare routines can cause the hair to fray, for example: heated tools, hot weather, excessive brushing and chemical processes. Rest assured however, that split ends are a common occurrence for everyone at some point. Creative Director Jack Merrick-Thirlway adds:"The more dry or brittle the hair, the more likely the hair shaft is to split. Coloured blondes are at higher risk of hair fraying because of the strength of chemicals used in the upkeep."
Is there a way to prevent split ends?
Jack recommends using heat protection and avoiding frequent chemical products. However, if colour is not something you are willing to comprise on, you must ensure you are getting sufficient professional hydrating treatments to counterbalance the effects of chemical treatments. He also advises getting regular hair cuts. "To ensure optimal hair health, you should get a professional haircut every six weeks" adds Jack.
At Neville, we offer a state of the art Thermal scissor System also known as the Hot Scissor cut. By cleverly warming the blades, the natural qualities of the hair are preserved by sealing the ends. Permed, bleached and treated hair can all have a slice of the action and will be transformed into healthy hair. This exclusive cutting tool provides a two-pronged attacked. You not only receive a superb Neville cut but are also safe in the knowledge that your hair will be healed.The Thermal Scissor System can be individually adjusted to every quality and length of hair, producing an immediate optimum result. Split hair will become healthy and more resistant.
Can you conceal split ends?
While there is no way to conceal split ends long term other than with a haircut, Jack does admit there is a short term solution to mask split ends. He advises using L'Oreal Professionnel Serum. "This will help disguise split ends by temporarily closing the shaft but ultimately, once the hair is split, it will continue to split until your next haircut".
Recommended Neville treatments for split ends:
Jack's tips for at home:
- Lower the heat on your hair tools
- Use heat protection cream before putting any tools on the hair
- Use weekly deep conditioning masks
- Get regular trims ( every six weeks)
- Be gentle when brushing your hair
- Choose hair products that contain gentle ingredients
- Swap your elastic bands for silk hair ties
- Consider sleeping on a silk pillowslip
In summary
Split ends can really affect the appearance of your hair and therefore your moral. So the best remedy is really prevention, as it is not possible to reverse the damage. By adopting a rigorous haircare routine prescribed by your trusted professional you can minimise the appearance of split ends for a happy healthy head of hair.
