Let’s talk split ends. Whether your hair’s long, short, curly, or straight, we’ve all noticed those scraggly, frayed tips at some point. The technical term is trichoptilosis. But most of us just know them as the ends of our hair that look and feel a bit… tired.
Now, before we dive into home remedies, let’s clear up one thing: once a strand is split, no product is going to glue it back together. A proper trim is the only real fix.
That said, you can do a lot to prevent split ends and keep your hair looking smoother and healthier for longer. Here are the best home remedies and tips, based on our in-house expertise, with a bit of home remedies from our customer community sprinkled in.
1. Trim Regularly
We know this post is all about how to get rid of split ends without cutting your hair, but we do have to make the point that regular trims are likely to be the best solution to the problem long term.
Experts and long-hair lovers alike agree: trimming your hair every 8 to 10 weeks is pretty much a tried-and-tested golden rule. It doesn’t mean you need to lose loads of length each time, just a quick dusting to keep the damage from creeping upward.
It might be tempting to get yourself a pair of super sharp scissors and sit at home idly hacking at the ends of your hair in front of the TV (a technique some call ‘search and destroy’), but we’d advise you give this approach a swerve and leave it to the professionals.
If trimming isn’t an option, up next are some ways to minimise the damage to try and keep more split ends at bay.
2. Shampoo Smart
When you wash your hair, focus the shampoo on your roots. Your scalp is where the oil builds up, not your ends. Over-washing and rough shampooing can strip the ends and lead to breakage, so don’t wash your hair every day. When you do, always follow up with conditioner, applied through the lengths and ends.
3. Deep Condition and Moisturise
Conditioner isn’t a luxury, it’s a must. Every time your hair gets wet, give the ends some TLC. Use a leave-in conditioner after washing, and once a month, treat your hair to a deep conditioning session.
One popular recipe from Reddit’s long-hair community (affectionately named after one of its founding members) is the Snowy Moon Moisture Treatment. It’s a mix of:
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1 part honey
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1 part pure aloe vera gel (avoid anything with additives)
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4 parts protein-free conditioner
Slather it on the mid-lengths and ends, pop on a shower cap, and let it sit for a while before rinsing out. A lot of folk swear by this treatment, and it’s a nice cheap option to some of the pricey hair masks we’ve come across.
4. Go Easy on the Heat
One of the biggest culprits behind split ends is overdoing the heat styling. If you’re using straighteners, styler, or hairdryers daily, your ends are probably feeling the strain. Try to cut down, and when you do use heat, keep the temperature low if you’re prone to split ends, and always apply a heat protection spray first.
And if you’re someone who likes to turn the bathroom into a luxury steam room with your scalding hot showers, dip the temperature when it comes to washing your hair. Keeping the water lukewarm will avoid drying out your locks.
5. Try Oils for Overnight Rescue
A few drops of argan oil smoothed onto the last third of your hair before bed can help lock in moisture and reduce pillow-friction while you sleep.
It’s not a fix for split ends, but it does make your hair feel softer and stronger over time. Go easy on it, though, as it’ll weigh down your hair and wipe out your volume the next day if you overdo it.
6. Avoid Sulphates and Silicones
Watch out for sulphates and silicones hiding in the small print. These ingredients can dry out your hair or leave unwanted buildup. Look for shampoos and conditioners that are free from sulphates and silicones, and your ends will be eternally grateful.
7. Protein Treatments (In Moderation)
Protein treatments can help strengthen hair and hide the damage, but too much can actually make your strands brittle.
If your hair feels limp or stretchy when wet, a protein mask applied every few weeks can definitely help. If it already feels dry and stiff, stick to moisturising treatments instead.
Most protein home remedies contain much of the same ingredients you’ll find lying around at home; honey, yoghurt, olive oils, avocado, shea butter etc. We’d recommend trying out a few different ones and tweaking to perfection. Some ingredients will work better than others, and some you won’t want to put anywhere near your hair. Egg yolk? Nope, not even once.
Final Thoughts
There’s no miracle cure for split ends (other than a good trim), but with a bit of care and consistency, you can prevent them from getting worse, and keep your hair looking smoother, shinier, and healthier in the long run.
Preventing Split Ends - FAQs
Can you actually repair split ends without cutting them?
Unfortunately, once a hair strand splits, it can’t really be repaired. However, certain treatments can temporarily seal the split ends, making them less noticeable and preventing further damage.
What are the best oils for treating split ends at home?
Natural oils like argan oil, coconut oil, and almond oil are pretty effective. They penetrate the hair, providing moisture and reducing the appearance of split ends.
How often should I trim my hair to prevent split ends?
Regular trims every 6 to 8 weeks are recommended to prevent split ends from travelling upwards, which can lead to more significant, noticeable damage.
