Reasons for Hair Split Ends

Hair Split Ends

Both men and women aspire to achieve beautiful and healthy hair, yet only a few manage to do so. One of the key factors affecting hair health is dietary habits; everything consumed can significantly impact hair vitality.

Causes of Hair Split Ends and Damage

Stress

Stress can adversely affect both mental and physical health, leading to hair loss and thinning approximately three months after a stressful event. After experiencing hair loss, regrowth typically occurs between six to nine months. To combat stress, consider engaging in simple stress-relief exercises, meditation, and deep breathing practices.

Poor Diet

The food we eat has a direct influence on our skin and hair health. Hair requires various vitamins, minerals, and proteins to remain healthy. Therefore, maintaining a balanced diet is essential for hair care. This diet should include healthy, natural foods rich in protein, Vitamin E, and iron, as well as minerals such as zinc and copper. It is advisable to avoid fast food and overly restrictive diets, as these can lead to vitamin deficiencies and, consequently, hair loss.

Hair Styling Tools

Regular use of hair styling tools can negatively impact hair condition. For instance, hair dryers can cause damage due to the high heat, which strips the hair of its natural oils, making it dry and lifeless. If using a hair dryer is necessary, set it to the lowest heat and keep it in motion; however, allowing hair to air dry is the preferred option.

Use of Chemical Products

Many individuals opt for commercial shampoos and styling products, but not all available options are beneficial for hair. Numerous products contain harmful chemicals, such as hydrogen peroxide and ammonia found in hair dyes that can lead to hair loss. Another concerning ingredient is sodium hydroxide in hair straightening products, which can weaken hair and damage the scalp. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid such items and select herbal products or hair dyes made with natural ingredients.

Swimming in Chlorinated Water

Swimming is one of the best activities for maintaining fitness and health; however, the high chlorine content in swimming pools can negatively affect hair, as it contains over 100 harmful chemicals. Chlorine accumulation can lead to dryness and brittleness, stripping hair of its natural oils, and rendering it more vulnerable to split ends. For avid swimmers, it is recommended to use a swim cap and to wash hair immediately afterward with shampoo.

Teasing Hair Followed by Hairspray

Teasing hair can cause breakage for several months as it leads to tangling. If you wish to tease your hair, it is preferable to use a wide-toothed comb to gently backcomb sections.

Hair Care Recipes for Split Ends

• Olive Oil: Olive oil has been used for hair care for thousands of years due to its ability to add shine and softness. It helps repair split ends thanks to its chemical compounds, such as oleic acid, palmitic acid, and squalene. Many shampoos and conditioners now include olive oil. To use, apply it to the damaged ends of the hair, or throughout all sections from roots to tips.
• Egg: Eggs are a natural, cost-effective treatment for hair because they contain lecithin and protein, which help strengthen and moisturize hair. They are also high in sulfur, which alleviates dandruff symptoms, making them a common ingredient in shampoos and hair products. The preparation method is as follows:
  • Apply the egg yolk alone or mix it with other ingredients like honey or olive oil. For short hair, one yolk is usually sufficient, while long hair may require more.
  • Apply the egg yolk or mixture to dry hair.
  • Leave it on for up to 30 minutes, then wash with shampoo as usual.
  • Thoroughly rinse hair to ensure no residue remains.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil promotes hair growth due to its potassium content, which keeps the scalp healthy and boosts hair growth, while also treating damage and preventing split ends. The preparation method is as follows:
  • Warm the oil and gently massage it into the scalp.
  • Leave it on overnight.
  • Wash hair the next morning.
  • Repeat this process twice a week.
• Argan Oil: Often referred to as “liquid gold,” argan oil treats thinning hair and enhances hair quality by moisturizing follicles and promoting growth. It repairs damaged hair and preserves the natural oils of the scalp. To use:
  • Massage the oil onto the scalp and hair ends.
  • Leave on for one hour, then rinse.
  • Repeat this process twice a week for smoother and shinier hair.
• Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil is known for its moisturizing properties, which stimulate hair growth by enhancing blood circulation and hydrating follicles, treating dry and damaged hair.
  • Ingredients:
    • 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil.
    • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or olive oil.
  • Preparation method:
    • Combine jojoba oil with coconut oil or olive oil in a bowl.
    • Apply the mixture to the hair.
    • Leave on overnight.
    • Wash hair the following morning.
    • Repeat this process once or twice a week.
• Flaxseed Oil: Flaxseeds are a rich source of essential fatty acids that help treat dry and damaged hair, enhancing health and shine while promoting healthy hair growth.
  • Ingredients:
    • 1 teaspoon of flaxseed oil.
    • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or olive oil.
  • Preparation method:
    • Mix the oils together and apply to the hair.
    • Leave the mixture on overnight.
    • Wash hair the next morning.
    • Repeat this process twice a week.