Get frequent trims.
There are plenty of expert-approved techniques for preventing and repairing frayed ends and frizzy hair, the first of which is going for more frequent haircuts. “Trimming your hair removes the damaged ends and prevents the split from traveling up the hair shaft,” explains Jennifer Korab, celebrity stylist and owner of Renaissance Salon & Spa in Hillsborough, New Jersey. “Make sure that you’re scheduling regular trims, every six to eight weeks. That’s a great start to preventing split ends,” says Nick Stenson, professional hairstylist and founder of Nick Stenson Beauty.
Shower with cooler water.
Atop implementing a new regimen (more on this below), there’s lots you can do at home in the interim. Try tweaking your routine in more slight and subtle ways, such as showering with cooler water than usual. “Much like our skin’s exposure to hot water, it can cause hair dryness,” Stenson says. “Hot water can rough up your hair cuticle, which can lead you to feeling like you have more split ends.” To prevent this, Stenson suggests shampooing and conditioning with lukewarm water as opposed to super hot, then ending with a cool rinse to seal your hair’s cuticles at the end.
Use less heat.
You’ll also want to minimize your hair’s exposure to heat from blow-dryers, and air-dry your hair whenever possible. “Limit the use of hot styling tools, and use them on the lowest heat setting,” says Korab, who reiterates the importance of using a heat protectant before styling. If you want to give your tresses a complete break from heat styling, try a fun updo instead, like a bun, ponytail, or braids.
Be gentle with wet hair.
Another trick? Being more mindful of how you’re treating hair when it’s wet. “When your hair is wet, it’s at its most vulnerable,” Stenson says. “Hair can stretch up to 50% when it’s wet. Apply your leave-in products before combing hair, limit pulling hair up when it’s wet, and avoid sleeping with wet hair.”
The best serums for split ends
Korab suggests regularly applying a leave-in deep-conditioning treatment or hair serum to the ends of your hair. “These products can help seal the hair cuticle, reduce frizz, and provide additional moisture to the damaged ends.” It’s a good idea to look for moisturizing ingredients like almond oil, argan oil, shea butter, and more.