How to Get Rid of Split Ends, According to Hair Experts

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 them from traveling up the hair shaft,” Korab explains. “Make sure that you’re scheduling regular trims, every six to eight weeks. That’s a great start to preventing split ends,” says Stenson.

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, like 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 cuticle 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,” suggests 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

Jennifer Korab, celebrity stylist and owner of Renaissance Salon & Spa in Hillsborough, New Jersey, 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.