How To Trim Split Ends at Home

Begin By Investing In Quality Scissors

Trimming your split ends is a great first step to repairing damaged hair. The most important tool you’ll need, regardless of the method you choose, is a pair of hair-cutting scissors. Note that the term “hair” is used. Please don’t use regular scissors to cut your dead ends. This can lead to more split ends which defeats the whole purpose of trimming your hair.

Now that we got this out of the way let’s talk about ways you can get rid of split ends at home.

Method 1 – Trimming

This is the most common way to say goodbye to split ends. The best part? It’s a super simple process. Begin by gathering these tools:

• Wide-toothed comb
• Haircutting scissors
• Hair ties
• Conditioner (optional)
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Step 1: Condition Your Hair (Optional)

This step is optional, but we highly recommend it because conditioning your hair will keep strands even and detangled. If you do not want to condition, begin by wetting your hair thoroughly.

Step 2: Smooth Out

Your locks should already be smooth and tangle-free if you conditioned them. However, whether you washed and conditioned it or just wet it, comb your hair out. You can do so by using a wide-toothed comb until your hair is smooth.

Step 3: Work in Sections

After detangling, take about an inch of hair and pin the rest up, so it doesn’t get in your way. Grab the strand between your index and middle finger and slide your fingers down until you reach the length you want to cut. Hold your ends in front of you so you can see the split ends.

Step 4: Trim

The next step is actually trimming dead ends. Grabbing your scissors, trim off one to two inches of your hair, depending on the damage. Instead of cutting straight across, snip away at your hair straight on. This will give it a more natural look.

Alternative Method

There is another method that is similar that you can give a try. This method is great for those who are short on time. Here is what you need to do:

1. Begin with conditioned locks just like the previous method.
2. Brush your hair and tie it up into a ponytail. The location of the ponytail is crucial to successfully carry out this method. You want to place the ponytail at the top of your head as centered as possible.
3. Once you’ve secured it and worked out any tangles, grab the ponytail at its base and work your fingers down until you reach the desired length to trim.
4. Take your scissors and snip away in an up and down motion as opposed to cutting straight across. Snipping at your hair straight on will give your trim a more natural look.

Method 2 – Hair Dusting

Hair dusting is a trimming technique that you can do right at home. It’s best for women who want to remove split ends without compromising hair length. 

This method requires the following tools:

• Haircutting scissors
• Mirror
• Steady hands

Divide your hair into four equal sections. Make sure you properly detangle it before carrying out this process. One by one, coil each section from roots to ends. You’ll notice small hairs will stick out. You need to snip these hairs that peek out using quality hair-cutting scissors. Repeat this for each section.

Hair dusting is that simple! It’s an easy way to maintain healthy strands without visiting your stylist so frequently.

Method 3 – Natural Remedies

Don’t want to deal with cutting your own split ends? If using a pair of scissors makes you nervous, you can use some natural ingredients to remedy split ends. Here is a list of the top foods you can put in your hair:

• Honey. This ingredient acts as a humectant. It attracts moisture and seals it in the hair. To use, mix some honey with olive oil and leave it in your hair for 30 minutes before washing.
• Egg Yolk. This food has proteins required for strong, healthy locks. Mix an egg yolk with some olive oil and apply it to the ends of the hair. Leave for half an hour and wash with regular shampoo.
• Papaya. This fruit contains folic acid. This is helpful in blood circulation within the scalp and hair. Blend some papaya and curd. Apply it to the hair and wash after 30 minutes.
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Preventing Split Ends

The best way to deal with split ends is not having any in the first place! Follow these 5 tips to enjoy healthier hair:

1. Brush Hair Gently. If you have tangles, always start from the bottom and work your way up. Also, be gentle when brushing to prevent further damage.
2. Avoid Hot Styling Tools. Hot tools will cause further damage to your locks. When using a straightener or curler, be sure to keep the temperature low and use a heat protectant.
3. Keep Hair Clean. When you wash your hair make sure to rinse it completely of any shampoo, conditioner, oils, and products.
4. Don’t Pick At Split Ends. Picking or tearing split ends will cause friction at the cuticle leading to more split ends.
5. Switch to a Satin Pillowcase. Because cotton pillowcases can cause a lot of friction, they often lead to breakage in hair. Satin pillowcases are much more gentle on hair.

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Final Thoughts

Trimming your hair is necessary to maintain healthy locks without breakage. Using the above tips will save you money and a trip to the salon. 

Now that you know how to trim split ends yourself, grab some hair cutting scissors, detangle your hair, and take matters into your own hands!