Dry and split ends: how to protect them?
Why ends become dry and split, how to stop them breaking, and everyday protective habits, from washing to the finishing touch.
The short answer
The ends are the oldest parts of the hair and the ones sebum reaches least: they dry out and split more easily. To protect them: regular trims of damaged ends, conditioner on the lengths at every wash, limited heat and a small amount of serum as a finishing touch.
Ends that lighten, split in two and tangle often reveal tired lengths. Here is how to protect them without complicating your routine.
Why ends get damaged
The longer a hair, the older its ends: they have been through months of brushing, sun and heat. Sebum from the scalp hardly reaches them. They dry out, lose their protection and end up splitting.
Cutting, the only real remedy for splits
A split end cannot be “repaired”. Trimming it regularly stops the split from travelling up and breakage from reaching the lengths.
Nourish the lengths at every wash
A conditioner applied to the mid-lengths and ends after every shampoo keeps the fibre supple: this is the step for SilkyTouch.
Limit heat and friction
- Pat-dry in a towel, without rubbing.
- Keep styling tools at moderate heat.
- Tie your hair loosely at night, or sleep on a satin pillowcase.
The finishing touch on the ends
Warm a drop of serum between your palms and smooth it over the ends. They stay smoother and softer to the touch. This is the role of Smoothix serum, also available with Lumimist mist in the finishing duo.
If your hair is dry all along its length, also read dry, brittle hair: habits that help.
Frequently asked questions
Can a split end be repaired?
A split end does not really close again. A product can smooth it, but the only lasting solution is to cut it.
How often should I trim my ends?
It depends on your hair and its condition. Regular trims stop splits from travelling up the hair.
Does serum make hair greasy?
In a small amount, on the ends only, it should not weigh hair down. Start with one drop.
