Unfortunately, split ends and frizzy hair are common hair symptoms that we all experience occasionally. For many people, split ends and frizzy hair is natural and normal, but for others, it can occur suddenly and make it difficult to style your hair. Regardless of the cause, a professional hair specialist can offer solutions for reducing your split ends and frizz.
What Causes Split Ends and Frizzy Hair?
Generally, split ends and frizzy hair are caused by several factors.
- Heat damage from hot styling tools such as dryers, curling irons, rollers, and flat irons.
- Environmental factors including pollution, contaminants, chlorine, and UV rays.
- Chemicals used for styling, such as bleaching, relaxing, perms, straightening, and coloring.
The term frizz has different meanings to various people. Typically, when people talk about frizzy hair, they are referring to hair that has split ends and is dry. Frizzy hair tends to be difficult to control and has an unkempt, flyaway look.
If you are experiencing split ends or frizzy hair, the good news is there are ways that you can fix the issue. The first step to regaining your natural, healthy, smooth hair is to determine the cause of the problem so you can prevent it from happening.
Common Causes of Split Ends and Frizz
A variety of factors can cause split ends and frizz. However, some of the most common causes include the following.
Using Rubber Bands for Your Ponytails
Using a rubber band for your ponytail is a sure way to damage your hair. Rubber bands create friction which is why you see so many strands wrapped around it when you remove your ponytail. A rubber band tugs and pulls on your hair and can damage the strands even if it doesn't yank them out. You can protect your hair by always using fabric-covered hair ties, headbands, and accessories.
Heat Styling
Blow dryers, flat irons, and other hot styling tools make it quick and easy to style your hair, but they can also lead to dry, frizzy hair and split ends. Excessive heat changes the molecular structure of the protein keratin, the primary component of hair. Frequent use of hot styling tools can strip your hair of natural oils, leaving it dry, frizzy, and prone to breakage and split ends.
Chemical Treatments and Dyes
Achieving the perfect color and style that you desire can come at a price. Hair treatments to get the straight locks or luxurious curls you have been craving typically use a lot of harsh chemicals. Chemical hair treatments can damage the cuticle and strip your hair of its natural moisture, leaving it prone to split ends.
Over Washing
While it's necessary to wash your hair to remove dirt and grime, washing too often removes the natural oils your hair needs to stay healthy. Excessive washing can lead to dry, rough ends that split.
Over Manipulation
Like shampooing, combing, and brushing your hair are essential, but overdoing it can damage your hair and lead to breakage. Avoid brushing or combing your hair when wet and most easily damaged. Instead, brush your hair before you wash it and gently remove any tangles with your fingers.
Towel-Drying
Even drying your hair after washing it can cause damage. After showering, use a towel to blot your hair and remove water. Avoid vigorously rubbing your hair to remove moisture, and if possible, use a soft micro-fiber towel to reduce friction and damage.
Protect Your Hair Against Frizz and Split Ends
Split ends and frizzy hair are common hair issues that we all experience. While it may not be possible to eliminate these hair issues entirely, there are steps you can take to protect your hair and keep it healthy. At New Image Hair Clinic, our hair care experts can offer solutions that meet your needs for frizzy hair and split ends. Contact us today and schedule your FREE initial consultation to learn more about how we can help.