Do Split Ends Stop Hair Growth? Here’s What Science Says

There can be several reasons behind stunted hair growth. Some common ones are genetic predisposition, stress, ageing, alopecia areata, and certain medical conditions. However, there’s a common belief that split ends are also responsible for hair growth stoppage. But is it really true? If yes, what does science have to say about it? How can one prevent split ends?

We understand that there are a lot of questions in your mind, and we’re here to answer them all.

In this blog, Lordhair - trusted globally for hair toupees and wigs - will delve into the common hair concern and provide scientifically backed information on the topic of ‘whether split ends stop hair growth on the scalp’.

Before diving in, let’s first understand what split ends actually are.

What Are Split Ends?

Split end is a common hair condition that occurs when the protective outer layer of the hair (cuticle) gets damaged or wears away, unveiling the inner layers of the strands to damage or breakage. Also called trichoptilosis, it is characterized by the splitting or fraying of hair shafts at the ends.

Men and women with split ends usually have dry, brittle, and unhealthy hair that is difficult to style and maintain. Their hair will appear thinner than the rest with each strand ending in a telltale V-shape.

do split ends stop hair growth

A woman surprised by her split ends

What Causes Split Ends?

Whether split ends cause hair loss or not, they definitely look terrible. Because Lordhair believes that understanding the causes of split ends is also important, let’s look at some popular reasons that trigger the same:

Overexposure to heat: We know most of our readers love using styling tools to achieve unique hairdos but sadly, your hair doesn’t share the love. Overexposure to heat from styling tools like hair dryers, flat iron, and curling irons cause protein in hair to break down. This weakens the hair shaft and makes it vulnerable to split ends.
Chemical treatments: Chemical treatments like hair coloring, bleaching, and perming can also contribute to split ends. These deteriorate the protective outer layer of the hair, making it susceptible to damage. Overprocessing hair strands with chemical treatments also strip off their natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness which later result in split ends.
Environmental factors: Just like our skin, hair can also be affected by environmental factors like sun exposure and pollution. The UV rays from the sun break down the hair’s proteins. Wind and pollution, on the other hand, denude the hair of its essential greases, increasing the likelihood of breakage and trichoptilosis.
Nutritional deficiencies: One of the biggest causes of split ends in men and women. According to scientists, our hair strands need nutrients like biotin, vitamin E, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids to grow strong and healthy. Deficiencies of these essential nutrients in the body can cause hair to become dry and friable, leading to split ends.
Genetics or inherent hair structure: Yes, you read it right. Genetics or inherent structure make some hair types more vulnerable to split ends than others. For instance, people with fine hair tend to have flimsier hair strands more liable to trichoptilosis. Similarly, men and women with curly hair are more prone to tangling which is again a major cause of frayed hair ends.

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Do Split Ends Stop Hair Growth?

Finally, the moment you all have been waiting for has arrived! Although split ends can make it difficult for hair to grow as they cause it to break and become damaged at the ends (resulting in further damage), they technically can’t stop hair growth.

Many dermatologists state that our hair originates from hair follicles. Also called roots of strands, they are responsible for about 6 inches of hair growth every year. Split ends don’t affect the roots of hair directly. Instead, they cause the topmost part of hair strands to break off, making them appear thinner and shorter.

But fret not. As long as one keeps up with a good hair care routine, hair growth goals can’t be influenced by split hair fibers. Curious about treatments and lifestyle changes that can help you fix frangible hair fibers and promote healthy hair growth on the scalp?

Let’s dive in!

how to prevent split ends

Is there a connection between split ends and hair loss?

What Are the Best Treatments to Stop Split Ends?

Men and women with split ends should consider the following treatments and lifestyle changes to stop them and improve overall hair condition:

Switch to a healthy diet: Switching to a healthy diet can help improve overall hair health. This also includes reducing the appearance of split ends. Foods such as leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and fish are full of vitamins, proteins, and minerals, making them great dietary options to make strands strong and healthy.
Trim hair regularly: Dermatologists say that our hair goes through some wear and tear every time we wash and comb it. This causes split ends. Make sure to get your hair trimmed every two to three months. This will help men and women remove damaged ends of hair and prevent the split from traveling up to the hair shaft.
Avoid brushing wet hair: Brushing strands right after taking a shower leaves them more exposed to split ends. Why? Because our hair is at its weakest when wet. So, avoid brushing your wet hair. Men and women can consider using a wide-toothed comb or hair pick to gently detangle their wet locks in case they have to go outside.

Learn whether keratin treatment is effective for thin hair or not

Use a heat protectant: Now, of course, not everyone can live without styling tools. However, using them in moderation and with proper precaution can help in preventing split ends. Apply a protectant right before using styling tools. It contains moisturizers and silicones that will create a physical barrier between the hair strands and the heating element. Put simply, it will stop heat from making the ends of hair brittle and prone to split ends.

Use the right shampoo and conditioner: Another important tip to consider for stopping split ends and improving hair growth. Remove regular shampoos and conditioners from your shelf as they often contain harsh chemicals that can strip the hair strands of their natural oils, leading to dryness and split ends. Instead, use hydrating and sulfate-paraben-free shampoos and conditioners to keep hair healthy and nourished.

Try hair systems: The aforementioned treatments and lifestyle changes will help with split ends recovery but they may not make much difference if you have a bald patch on the head or aggressive frontal thinning. In such a case, using a hair system or wig can be a great option.

Also called men’s hairpieces, toupees, and wigs for women, hair systems come in a variety of styles and materials and can be customized according to your needs and preferences. They are a convenient way to add volume, length, and color without using styling tools or undergoing harsh chemical treatments.

Check out how amazing this man looks after trying Lordhair’s hair replacement system:

Do Split Ends Stop Hair Growth? Final Words

While split ends are not the direct reason behind hair growth stoppage, they can lead to hair breakage and thinning over time. So, make sure to address it on time. By considering the aforesaid treatments and lifestyle tips, men and women can prevent split ends and promote healthy hair growth. In short, gain back the confidence and satisfaction of having beautiful locks on the head!

Consider buying a hair system if you also struggle with hair loss and damage. Lordhair offers a variety of wigs and custom-made hair toupees for men and women who are facing hairline recession. Our units are shipped to 100+ countries and all come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Got any queries? Send them to support@lordhair.com and have them answered by our hair experts!