Split Ends: What Causes Them & How to Prevent Them (NYC Haircut Expert Guide)

Split ends are one of the most common hair concerns for clients with long hair — especially in NYC where weather, heat styling, and city pollution can dry the hair quickly. As a NYC haircut and long-hair specialist, here is the complete guide to what split ends are, why they happen, and how to prevent them.

What Are Split Ends?

Split ends happen when the protective outer layer of the hair (the cuticle) becomes damaged and begins to fray or separate. Once the hair splits, it cannot be repaired — it must be trimmed.

You can reduce the appearance, but you cannot “glue” a split end back together. The only real cure is a professional haircut.

Most Common Causes of Split Ends

1. Heat Styling

Blow-drying, flat irons, curling irons, and hot tools weaken and dry the ends, making them vulnerable to splitting.

2. Infrequent Haircuts

If you go too long without trimming, the ends become rough, break, and split upward into the hair shaft.

3. Dryness & Lack of Moisture

Long hair especially struggles to get natural oils to the ends, causing dryness and breakage.

4. Chemical Services

Bleach, highlights, color, keratin, and relaxers can weaken the cuticle if not maintained properly.

5. Rough Brushing

Brushing aggressively, especially when wet, causes breakage and split ends.

6. NYC Weather & Pollution

Wind, humidity, and pollution dehydrate hair and cause friction on long ends.

7. Sleeping with Loose or Tangled Hair

Friction at night can create breakage — especially if sleeping without protection.

Types of Split Ends

• Classic Split: Hair splits into two parts
• Feather Split: Multiple small branches — sign of severe dryness
• Single-Ended Split: Hair thins at the end before breaking
• Forked Split: Two or three branches

The more branched the split, the more urgently the ends need trimming.

How to Prevent Split Ends

1. Get Regular Haircuts

Every 8–12 weeks is ideal for long hair.
Even a dusting trim prevents splits from moving up the hair shaft.

2. Use Heat Protectant Every Time

Always apply heat protectant before blow-drying or using hot tools. No exceptions.

3. Moisturize the Ends

Use:

• Lightweight serums
• Leave-in conditioners
• Deep conditioning masks

Long hair needs hydration at the ends daily.

4. Avoid High Heat

Keep hot tools below 350°F to prevent burning and splitting.

5. Gentle Brushing

• Start at the ends and work upward
• Use a wide-tooth comb or soft brush
• Never brush soaking-wet hair

6. Protect Hair While Sleeping

• Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase
• Braid or tie hair in a loose ponytail
• Apply a small amount of serum on the ends before bed

7. Use the Right Products for Your Hair Type

Color-treated, long, or dry hair needs hydrating shampoos, conditioners, and regular treatments.

How to Fix Split Ends

Only a professional haircut can remove split ends.
But proper home care prevents new ones from forming.

• Trim the ends to remove damage
• Maintain hydration
• Use a quality heat protectant
• Reduce over-styling

Keep Your Ends Healthy With Professional Care

If you want long, healthy hair, keeping the ends strong is essential. Book your haircut or ends treatment at Fabi Pro Beauty in Midtown East Manhattan.

Book now → https://fabiprobeauty.com/book