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Split ends: causes, appearance and effective care

Split ends, Woman with hair problems - brittle, damaged, dry, dirty and loss hair concept

Split ends are the nightmare of many people with long hair. They occur when the ends of the hair are repeatedly damaged over a long period of time. Long hair in particular is often exposed to stress for months or even years.

What are split ends and what do they look like?

Split ends describe the splitting of the hair tip into two or more strands. This makes the hair look frayed, dull and unkempt. Under a magnifying glass, you can see that the protective outer layer of the hair has broken down. Once this layer is destroyed, it cannot be repaired – therefore, split ends cannot be reversed, only prevented or removed.

Typical signs of split ends are:

– Split hair ends

– Rough, straw-like feel

– Lack of shine

– Brittle hair structure

Causes of split ends

The most common triggers are mechanical, chemical and thermal stress.

– Heat: Hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons damage the hair structure.

– UV radiation: The sun dries out the hair and weakens the keratin structure.

Chemical influences: Hair dye, perms or chlorinated and salt water attack the cuticle.

– Mechanical stress: Frequent brushing, rubbing against clothing or wearing hair ties leads to abrasion.

Prevention

As split ends cannot be repaired, prevention is crucial. This includes:

– Gentle drying and styling (low heat setting)

– Sun protection products for the hair

– Regular trimming every 4–6 weeks

– Nourishing treatments and leave-in products.

Active ingredients against split ends and their function:

Some proven active ingredients in hair care products can significantly reduce the risk of ugly ends.

  • Argan oil: Moisturises and smoothes the hair surface.
  • Keratin: Strengthens the hair structure from within and reduces hair breakage.
  • Panthenol (provitamin B5): binds moisture and increases elasticity.
  • Silk proteins: form a protective film that adds shine.
  • Silicone oils (e.g. dimethicone): These seal the hair ends and reduce friction.
  • Shea butter nourishes dry hair and protects it from further drying out.

Product recommendations for split ends

Leave-in serums with argan oil and keratin are ideal for caring for and preventing split ends.

– Leave-in serums with argan oil and keratin for daily protection

– Hair masks with panthenol and silk proteins for intensive regeneration.

– Heat protection sprays with silicones and UV filters for days when the hair is styled.

– Care shampoos with mild surfactants and plant oils.

– Repair treatments with shea butter and vitamin E for severely damaged hair.

Conclusion: Healthy ends for beautiful hair

Split ends are a sign that the hair ends have lost their protective layer. With the right care, gentle treatment and targeted active ingredients, split ends can be prevented and hair can be kept healthy and shiny.

Cosmacon GmbH supports you in the development of effective hair care products – from formulation and selection of innovative active ingredients to market readiness. If you are looking for tailor-made solutions against split ends and for healthy hair, Cosmacon is your ideal partner. Contact us for individual advice.

Feel free to check out our partner Tojo Cosmetics GmbH if you would like to start with white label products.