Split ends are a common frustration—but they don’t have to be a permanent part of your hair story. By understanding what causes them and how to treat them, you can take control and keep your hair looking healthy, strong, and smooth.
What are split ends?
Split ends, or trichoptilosis, occur when the protective outer layer of your hair wears away, causing the strand to split into two or more parts. They’re a universal issue—affecting all hair types and textures—and often signal that your hair is stressed or damaged.
Common culprits include:
Heat damage: Frequent use of blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons can strip your hair of moisture, making it prone to splitting.
Chemical treatments: Coloring, bleaching, and perming can weaken the hair shaft and lead to breakage.
Environmental stressors: Sun exposure, wind, and pollution can dry out your hair and accelerate damage.
✨ Pro Tip: If your hair is color-treated, check out our tips to help protect and prolong your color while minimizing damage.
Let’s break it down: what causes split ends?
Chemical damage is a major culprit when it comes to split ends. Hair coloring, bleaching, and perming treatments all involve the use of harsh chemicals that can weaken the hair structure, making it more prone to splitting. These processes strip away the hair's natural protective layers, leaving it vulnerable to environmental stressors and breakage.
Heat damage from overuse of styling tools is another common cause of split ends. Blow-drying, curling, and flat ironing expose hair to high temperatures that can cause the hair shaft to become dry, brittle, and more susceptible to splitting. Without proper heat protection, these styling practices can lead to significant hair damage and the formation of split ends.
✨ Pro Tip: Always use a heat protectant spray before styling. Check out our 5 benefits of using a heat protect spray – your hair will thank you.
Brushing, combing, and styling too aggressively, especially when hair is wet, can lead to weakened and split hair shafts. Use a wide-toothed comb, be gentle with tangles, and avoid over-brushing to minimize this type of damage and keep split ends at bay.
How to deal with split ends
Here’s the truth: once a split end forms, it can’t be repaired—but you can prevent more from forming and stop existing ones from traveling up the hair shaft.
1. Trim Regularly
Getting regular trims is the most effective way to manage split ends. Snipping off the damage prevents it from worsening and keeps your hair looking fresh and healthy.
2. Limit Heat Styling
Heat styling tools can be your hair’s worst enemy. Use them sparingly, and always apply a heat protectant spray before styling to shield your strands from damage.
3. Deep Condition Weekly
Deep conditioners infuse your hair with moisture and nutrients, helping to strengthen and smooth the shaft. Aim for a weekly treatment—or more often if your hair feels dry or brittle. OGX® Bond Protein Repair Mask is a great option; infused with protein, this hair mask deeply nourishes to visibly reduce signs of damage.
4. Protect from the Elements
UV rays, wind, and pollution can all contribute to split ends. Protect your hair by wearing hats or scarves outdoors and using leave-in products with UV filters.
Split ends are a sign your hair needs a little extra love. With the right care, gentle handling, regular trims, and protective treatments—you can minimize damage and keep your hair looking its best.
✨ Pro tip: For a complete care routine, explore the OGX® Bond Protein Repair line—formulated to help repair existing damage and protect against future stress.
By following these tips, you can minimize split ends and help keep your hair shiny, strong, and looking its best.