Split Ends Curly Hair - Here’s How to Manage Them

Article Highlights
  • Split ends on curly hair usually occur when the protective cuticle layer of the hair strand is damaged or worn away, causing the hair fibers to separate and fray at the ends.
  • Trimming your hair (the correct way) is typically the most fool-proof way of getting rid of split ends in curly hair.
  • Curly hair is more delicate than straight hair and can be more easily damaged by chemical treatments.

Split ends curly hair can be a huge pain to deal with, particularly if you have extremely wavy and perpetually dry hair. Split ends on curly hair can make your tresses appear frizzy and unhealthy and also lead to further damage if not properly treated. They mostly appear as frayed or broken hair fibers at the end of the hair strand and can be the aftermath of different things, including heat damage, chemical treatments, and improper hair care. Experts tend to agree that one of the reasons curly hair has split ends stems from the fact this hair type tends to be more fragile than regular straight tresses. Hence, extra care is usually needed if you happen to have this type of hair.

How to Prevent Split Ends

Fortunately, even if you are constantly dealing with dead ends curly hair, there are quite a few things you can do keep split ends on 4c hair at bay. The first step on how to prevent split ends curly hair starts by understanding that you have unique hair composition that requires extra care and attention, not to mention meticulous management. Without further ado, here is what you can do to ensure that damaged curly hair split ends are a thing of the past.

There are several steps you can take to prevent split ends and keep your hair healthy:

1. Keep Your Hair Moisturized

Keeping your hair moisturized is an important step in preventing split ends, especially if you happen to have curly tresses. Moisturizing products, such as coconut oil, almond oil, and other nourishing hair products, such as Bloommy’s Biotin Collagen and Keratin treatment, can be applied to the ends of the hair to add shine and smoothness. Restorative sprays can also be used to disguise stubborn split ends.

Biotin keratin collagen treatment

Speaking of restoration, olive oil is an excellent option for moisturizing hair as it helps prevent split ends and adds shine. In fact, applying olive oil to damp hair before styling can help lock in moisture and protect against damage associated with dead ends. Regular trims are also crucial for keeping damaged
curly hair split ends at bay.

2. Use Heat Protectant when Heat Styling

Using heat protectants during heat styling is a significant step to prevent dead ends in curly hair. You see, heat protectants create a protective barrier between the hair and the styling tool, which helps to reduce breakage, frizz, and damage to the follicles. Heat protectants also help to reverse any existing damage from heat styling.

Speaking of which, when using a hot brush, it is advisable to apply the heat protectant spray some minutes before starting to brush. Pull the brush all the way through the hair for straight ends, or wrap the ends around the barrel of the round brush to create curls. Make sure you are using the lowest setting possible when using heating tools on curly hair. Even when using a heat protectant, it is important to layer your hair with a repair treatment such as Bloommy's Hair Mask. Using a leave-in conditioner before applying the heat protectant spray is also recommended. This will help to detangle your hair and make it easier to apply the product evenly throughout your strands. Finally, make sure that you are using the recommended amount of product for your hair type and length.

Hair mask in hands

3. Be Gentle When Brushing or Styling Your Hair

Being gentle with your hair means avoiding pulling or tugging on the hair as you brush or comb it, and using a detangling product to make the process easier. When brushing, start from the ends and work your way through any knots slowly until you can brush it smoothly without causing any considerable damage, if any at all. As said earlier, using a restorative spray can help disguise stubborn split ends in curly hair while also keeping hair fresh in between cuts.

4. Regular Trims are Paramount

There is a very good reason trimming hair regularly can stop split ends and dead ends in curly hair in their tracks. You see, split ends typically occur when the protective cuticle layer of the hair is damaged, which often leads to breakage and unevenness. As such, trimming split ends removes the already damaged parts of the hair, which helps to prevent further breakage and encourages healthy hair growth. Besides, while trimming does not directly promote hair growth, it can help to remove any existing split ends that may be preventing your hair from growing. So be sure to get that fresh cut today!

5. Avoid Chemical Treatments

Split ends in curly hair are sometimes caused by chemical treatments such as dyes, bleach, and styling products containing alcohol. These treatments can deplete the hair of its natural moisture, making it dry and prone to splitting. Besides, the damage from these treatments weakens the hair cuticles, making them more prone to splitting. In short, by keeping such procedures to a minimum, you are actually doing your tresses a favor, as they will be less susceptible to breakages or dead ends.

6. Stop Towel Drying Your Hair After Hitting the Shower

Vigorously towel-drying hair after walking from the shower often leads to split ends because the coarse texture and dryness of a cotton towel typically cause untold damage to curly tresses. This can worsen any existing split ends and cause small craters along the hair shaft, weakening the hair. Towel drying can also raise the hair's cuticle, making damage more likely, or cause already weakened strands (maybe due to chemical treatment or aggressive styling) to fray or snap. Besides, roughly towel-drying hair won't directly cause split ends, but it will create knots that can later form split ends when trying to get them out. Gently blot out your hair instead, using a satin/silk cloth or, better yet, let it air dry by itself.

7. Sleep on a Satin or Silk Pillowcase Rather than Cotton

Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase can help prevent split ends in curly hair by reducing friction and preserving the hairstyle such that you don't have to work so much on your hair in the morning. Not forgetting that silk and satin pillowcases are generally smoother than cotton, which is known for causing snagging and breakage. The slippery surface of silk fibers also allows hair to glide smoothly over the surface, reducing friction, tangles, frizz, and breakage. If not for anything else, this helps to retain moisture in the hair and prevents split ends from forming.

8. Supplement Your Diet with Crucial Vitamins and Hair-Friendly Minerals

Split ends in curly hair can be prevented by consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals or supplementing your eating routine accordingly. Vitamins C and B, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium, for instance, can help stimulate hair growth, which can be a game changer when you are trying to keep dead ends at bay. Additionally, zinc helps with hair tissue repair and growth, while vitamin E-rich foods like broccoli, spinach, and nuts can boost blood circulation to the scalp.

Speaking of which, taking hair supplements can also help if your diet lacks specific nutrients essential for healthy hair. Here are a few quick examples of some that can come in handy;

Bloommy’s Collagen, Keratin, and Biotin Capsules

Did you know taking Bloommy’s Biotin, Keratin, and Collagen capsules can help reduce split ends or, at the very least, make you less prone to them? The biotin in these capsules is a B-complex vitamin that helps create the keratin that your hair is made of. On the other hand, keratin helps thicken, texturize, and add volume and dimension to hair, while collagen helps thicken and strengthen hair. In short, this trio works together to make dead ends on curly hair a thing of the past.

Collagen Keratin and Biotin Capsules in Hand

Raw Science Zinc

Did you know that zinc is an essential mineral that can help to reduce and prevent split ends? Apparently, zinc helps to reduce the levels of an enzyme in the scalp that can cause hair loss, which in turn can help to reduce split ends. Zinc also helps to boost protein levels, which can help to strengthen hair and prevent split ends. Additionally, zinc helps to repair damaged hair and protect it from free radicals, which can help to keep split ends to a minimum.

Raw Science Biotin Collagen and Keratin Supplements

Hair experts believe that taking a biotin, keratin, and collagen supplement can help reduce or prevent split ends by promoting hair growth and fighting damage to hair follicles. Biotin, for starters, is a vitamin that helps create the keratin that makes up the hair, while collagen is a protein that also plays a key role in keeping the body in shape and boosting hair growth. These three coalesce together to promote healthy hair growth, which can help you tackle the problem of split ends in the long run.

How Can I Repair Split Ends on Curly Hair

Truth be told, curly hair split ends treatment is hardly a walk in the park. Mostly, this is because when the hair strand splits, the cuticle layer that surrounds the hair shaft gets damaged, and the inner structure of the hair is exposed. Once this happens, that hair strand will always have a split end.

However, some things can be done to improve the appearance of split ends and minimize further damage. Trimming is usually the best way to go about it, but you can also explore a few options. This includes;

1. Using Bloommy's Biotin, Collagen, and Keratin Shampoo to Get Rid of Split Ends

Unlike regular shampoos, this cleansing shampoo is crafted using a collection of minerals and vitamins selected for their ability to repair damaged tresses and minimize the incidence of split ends.

Biotin Collagen Keratin Shampoo in Hand

2. Using Bloommy's Hair Mask

Just as the name suggests, Bloommy's hair mask encompasses the goodness of keratin, collagen, and biotin to kick-start a hair repair and treatment cycle that aims at restoring the long-lost shine, strength, and vitality that split ends take from you.

Hair Mask

3. Supplementing Your Diet with Bloommy's Biotin, Collagen, and Keratin Capsules

Sometimes your diet could be to blame for the increased incidence of split ends on your curly tresses. In such cases, supplementing your eating routine with collagen, biotin, and keratin can go a long way in imparting the required nutrients needed to keep dead ends on your curly hair at bay.

Biotin Collagen Keratin Capsules

How to Trim Curly Hair Split Ends?

As much as dead ends can be a real pain to deal with, the good news is that trimming curly hair to prevent split ends can be done at home with the right tools and techniques. Here is a step-by-step procedure on how you can do this:

  1. Start by using a nourishing shampoo and hydrating conditioner to help prevent split ends from stretching up the hair shaft.
  2. Divide the hair into sections, with six to eight sections recommended for curly hair.
  3. Pull each section forward and carefully snip the end of the hair anchored between your fingers with the tip of the scissors.
  4. Hold each twist or braid close to the shoulder area at zero degrees, and snip any less dense or thin-looking strands.
  5. Repeat this process for each section until all the split ends have been trimmed.
  6. Finish by using a deep conditioning treatment or a hair mask such as Bloommy’s Collagen Keratin Treatment to help keep curls hydrated and healthy.

Collagen Keratin Treatment

Remember that getting regular trims is considered one of the best ways of repairing and preventing dead ends in curly hair, so if you can pull it off like a pro, you will be one step closer to getting your dream hair.

How to Tell if You Have Split Ends? What Are They?

As mentioned earlier in this article, split ends, also known as trichoptilosis, are a common hair problem that occurs when the protective cuticle layer at the end of the hair strand is damaged, revealing the inner layers of the hair. This can cause the hair to split into two or more strands. Here is how to tell if you have split ends:

  1. Look for frayed or ragged ends: Split ends appear frayed or ragged rather than smooth and even. So, if you are wondering what do split ends look like on curly hair, this ought to be one of the main things you should look out for.
  2. Look for white dots: If you see small white dots at the end of your hair, this may be an indication of split ends. In fact, if you are at a loss for what split ends look like on natural hair, white dots are usually the clearest indication.
  3. Check for tangling or split ends under a microscope: If your hair is prone to tangling, this could be a tell-tale sign of dead ends.
  4. Check for dryness: Hair with dead ends is usually dry, dull, and lifeless-looking.
  5. Check for breakage: This could signify split ends, especially if you're experiencing more breakage than usual.

What Causes Split Ends On Curly Hair?

Having answered the question of what do split ends look like on African American hair, here's a comprehensive breakdown of what causes split ends in curly hair.

Several factors can cause split ends on curly hair:

  • Dryness: Curly hair is naturally more prone to dryness due to the shape of the hair strand. When the hair is dry, it becomes more brittle and susceptible to breakage, which can lead to split ends.
  • Lack of moisture: Curly hair needs moisture to maintain its elasticity, and without enough moisture, the hair can become dry and brittle, leading to split ends.
  • Heat styling: Making a habit of using heat styling tools such as flat irons, curling irons, tongs, and blow dryers can cause irreparable damage to your hair strands and lead to split ends.
  • Chemical treatments: Chemical treatments such as relaxers and color can cause damage to the hair strand, leading to split ends and dead ends in curly hair.
  • Lack of proper hair care: Not using the proper hair care products or not protecting the hair from environmental factors such as wind, cold weather, snow and sun can lead to split ends.
  • Over-manipulation: Curly hair tends to be more delicate and prone to breakage than straight hair, so over-manipulation, like over-brushing, can cause split ends.
  • Genetics: Some people (especially those with very curly hair) are more prone to split ends due to their hair type and genetics.

Carly Hair

Is Curly Hair More Prone To Split Ends?

All factors held constant, curly hair is generally more prone to split ends than straight hair. Trichologists believe it's because the natural shape and overall form factor of curly hair make it more difficult for the natural oils produced by the scalp to travel down the hair strand and moisturize the ends. Curly hair is also more susceptible to breakage because the bends and curves in the hair strand can put more stress on the hair, causing it to weaken and split. Additionally, the natural dryness of curly hair can cause the hair to become brittle and more prone to breakage, especially when exposed to harsh chemical treatments.

Another reason for this is that curly hair has a tighter and smaller cuticle, which makes it more delicate and fragile than straight hair. This means that curly hair is more susceptible to damage from environmental factors such as wind, sun, and cold weather.

So, to answer the question, is curly hair considered to be more prone to split ends? Yes, curly hair is more prone to split ends than other hair types due to its tendency to be dry and brittle. The curly nature of the tresses causes them to tangle more frequently and makes it difficult for natural oils to reach the ends of the strands.

Different Types of Split Ends

As you might have suspected, there are several different types of split ends; they include the following;

  • Single-strand split ends: These are the most common type of split ends and occur when the protective cuticle layer at the end of the hair strand is heavily damaged, revealing the inner layers of the hair. This causes the hair to split into two or more strands.
  • Multi-strand split ends: These occur when multiple strands of hair split at the same point, creating a "frayed" appearance. Multi-strand split ends can be caused by damage to the hair shaft or cuticle layer.
  • Transverse split ends: These occur when the hair splits across the strand rather than along the length of the strand. Transverse split ends are often a result of excessive chemical treatments, heat styling, or mechanical stress on the hair.
  • Cross-sectional split ends: These are caused by damage to the cuticle layer and the cortex of the hair strand. These types of split ends are usually the aftermath of over-processing with chemicals, over-styling with heat tools, or excessive dryness.
  • Feathery split ends: These are often the result of repeated mechanical stress on the hair, such as over-brushing or using a fine-tooth comb. The hair usually appears "feathered" or "fluffy" at the ends.
  • Dry split ends: These happen when hair lacks moisture which makes the hair brittle and prone to breakage.

In Closing - Tips for Split Ends for Curly Hair

To wrap up this lengthy but quite informative piece, here's a recap of some quick tips for people with curly hair who may be struggling with split ends.

  • Always remember to be gentle when washing, brushing, detangling, styling, and touching your hair.
  • Heat tools should be avoided as much as possible.
  • Drinking more water, staying hydrated, and nourishing the hair with regular treatments such as hot oil treatments can help prevent and treat split ends.

Deep conditioning the hair regularly can also help reduce split ends. And so is using a rinse-out formula made with hair oils can help replenish moisture in the hair and keep it smooth and free of split ends. Finally, gently scrunching the hair with your hands can encourage curls to keep their natural shape and minimize frizz and flyaways.

FAQ

  1. What is the fastest way to get rid of split ends?

    The fastest way to get rid of split ends is to trim them off. However, there are also other ways to prevent and reduce the appearance of split ends without cutting your hair. These include using a hydrating coconut oil treatment, applying a smoothing leave-in conditioner, using cold water when washing your hair, drying your hair gently, and using a nourishing avocado mask.

  2. Does brushing curly hair cause split ends?

    Yes, brushing curly hair can cause split ends. Curly hair is more fragile than other hair types due to its curvy shape, making it more prone to breakage and damage when brushed through. Improper detangling and brushing can cause friction that leads to split ends. Additionally, too much brushing can lead to split ends and breakage, as well as destroy the hair cuticle, causing tiny splits in the strands.

  3. What deficiency causes split ends?

    A deficiency in biotin, also known as vitamin B7, can cause brittle, thinning, or splitting hair and nails. Other signs of a vitamin deficiency that can affect the hair include an itchy scalp, hair loss, a super brittle texture, and frizzy hair. A lack of biotin, zinc, and a host of other nutrients, such as vitamin D, can lead to these symptoms, so it is important to ensure that you get enough of these vitamins in your diet.

  4. When should I worry about split ends?

    You should be concerned about split ends when your hair starts to feel dry and is difficult to style, or when it has sustained some serious-looking damage. To prevent split ends, make an effort to adhere to good hair care practices such as regular haircuts and trims, avoiding daily washing, keeping chemical treatments to a minimum, and using all-natural shampoos.

  5. Should you pull out split ends?

    The best and most effective way to deal with split ends is to cut them off completely. This prevents them from rising further up the hair shaft and causing more damage. Regular trims every 2-3 months can also help reduce split ends, as well as minimize the use of heat styling tools and being gentle with your tresses after washing your hair. Picking apart split ends should be avoided, as once they are damaged, they cannot be repaired.

  6. Do hairdressers remove split ends?

    Yes, hairdressers can cut split ends. Hairdressers typically use a subtle trimming technique to place the first strand between their fingers and remove the split ends. Hair twisting is also a traditional method of trimming split ends that pros sometimes use. Speaking of which, it is recommended to trim split ends when dry rather than when wet.

  7. How do you fix split ends naturally?

    Split ends can be fixed naturally with home remedies such as coconut or argan oil treatment, applying an egg mask, using argan oil, treating hair with honey and almond/olive oil, beer, black lentils, or a mixture of olive oil and raw honey.

  8. What is hair-pulling syndrome?

    Trichotillomania (also known as hair-pulling disorder) is a mental disorder that is manifested by recurrent and irresistible urges to pull out your own hair. It is more common in teenagers and young adults and can involve pulling hairs from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or pubic area. Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy and medications such as antidepressants.

List of resources

  1. Alejandra Camacho et al., (2009). Understanding breakage in curly hair. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280914267_Understanding_breakage_in_curly_hair

  2. Daniela Okuta et al., (2018). Split Ends Repair: Novel Application of Image Analysis for Assessing Performance of Hair Care Products https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319764569_Split_Ends_Repair_Novel_Appliction_of_Image_Analysis_for_Assessing_Performance_of_Hair_Care_Products

  3. Vaibhav Kaushik, Ritesh Chogale, and Sudhakar Mhaskar, (2020). Alternative Protocol for Hair Damage Assessment and Comparison of Hair Care Treatments https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7276157/



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