How to Prevent Split Ends

You can't mend a broken heart or a split end, but you sure can prevent them. Here are some steps to prevent split ends, anyway.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Sun Hats
• Satin Pillowcases
• Anti-chlorine Shampoos
• Body-building Shampoos
• Deep Conditioner
• Hot Oil Treatments
• Natural Bristle Hairbrush
• Protein-based Shampoos
• Suncreen Shampoos For Normal Hair
• Scissors
• Hair Salon Gift Certificates
• Coated Rubber Bands
• Swimming Caps
• Video Game Consoles

1. Take care not to split them in the first place, because the only cure is a trim, according to trichologists (hair doctors) everywhere.

2. Don't brush hair when it's wet, because that's when it is at its most vulnerable.

3. Cool it on the heat styling tricks. That means cut down on hair dryers, straightening irons, crimpers, curling irons and hot curlers.

4. Buy a natural-bristle brush that won't pull on hair and ultimately break it off, thereby causing a possible split end.

5. Wear a hat to minimize sun damage.

6. Use a shampoo that lists sunscreen as a major ingredient.

7. Condition after shampooing, and use a deep conditioner once a month.

8. Try a hair split repair product. It won't actually repair the hair, but it will minimize the stray hair look you hate.

9. Get a trim every six weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Treat your hair as the fragile living thing it is; don't twirl, tug or abuse it.

• A satin pillow case will minimize tangles.

• Always use coated or covered rubber bands.

• When you swim, wear a swim cap to protect your hair from harsh chlorine.

• Learning preventative care is a must.

• Too many products, treatments and fussy hairdos won't do your hair any good. Overdying and drying it are the main culprits.