Hi, I’m Julie and I work for Pantene. Split ends (or dead ends) are a result of stresses that push hair to its breaking point, and are every woman’s nightmare! Each hair fibre is enclosed by the cuticle, which protects the more fragile core of the hair fibre from damage. Heat, hairstyling stress, excessive friction and even natural weathering can damage the cuticle and degrade its protective abilities, causing damaged hair. If enough damage is inflicted, the cuticle is no longer able to keep the inner fibre components tightly wrapped, which can lead to split ends.
Taking steps to maintain healthy hair also helps secure the health of your cuticle and is therefore the best way to prevent split ends. As you are just using shampoo and conditioner, make sur you use a suitable product that will moisturise your hair well. Using a conditioner every time you shampoo your hair can minimize the damage that natural weathering can cause and help prevent the formation of split ends. Our Smooth & Sleek range will help nourish your hair and give you this smooth/healthy look. This range includes a leave-in conditioner which I would recommend to lock that extra bit of moisture in.
Also, use only a wide-tooth comb to detangle wet hair, don’t vigorously towel-dry wet hair, and brush it only when necessary. One helpful tip (proven to be very effective in my case) is to be gentle enough when you are shampooing not to stimulate the oil producing glands in the hair; try to avoid conditioner at the roots, apply in the middle or on the ends.
Because there is no permanent solution to split ends, you will ultimately need to trim them to prevent split ends from propagating and becoming split fibres. Good luck! I know how frustrating this is and I hope these tips will help.