Split ends? 5 natural remedies for this common hair problem!

Split ends have to be the most common hair problem we face! You hear ladies complaining about it in salons, chatting about it over coffee sessions and blogging about split ends online. So why do we get these annoying twig ends to our tresses?

Experts tell us that split ends occur when the protective outer layer of the hair cuticle wears away because of external stressors. These can range from pollution, the sun, or heat styling and salon chemical services. If the internal structure of hair is exposed, it becomes weak, damaged and dehydrates. Apparently, split ends are natural and everyone gets them but that does not appease our woe.

Honestly, the only way to truly rid hair of split ends is to go for a regular trim. However, trying some homemade remedies between salon appointments can help improve the overall look and feel of your hair and prevent more splits from occurring. Homemade remedies are also great because they won’t pinch your pocket you’ll probably find the ingredients in your kitchen cabinet. Try some we list below for instant effects.

Egg Shampoo
The easiest home remedy for split ends is to make a shampoo with egg. All you need is an ounce of fresh rosemary, a pint of hot water and an egg. Start by steeping the rosemary in the hot water for about 20 minutes and let it cool. Once it’s cooled down, beat your egg into it, then massage the mixture into your hair and then rinse.

You can also mix egg yolk with some olive oil and honey. Massage this mask into your hair and cover with a cap for about half an hour. Follow this with your usual hair wash routine.

Papaya
Papayas are really great to add some moisture to your hair. Get hold of a ripe papaya and de-seed it. Next blend it until it is completely pulpy. Once all mashed up, add in half a cup of plain yogurt and mix again. Part your hair and apply this mixture and let it stay for 30 minutes or so and then rinse it out.

Oiling
Oiling your hair also does wonders for split ends. Mix a small amount of castor oil, olive oil or almond oil and gently massage your tresses with this hair concoction. Wrap your head with a shower cap and leave overnight or for 8-10 hours for best results. Rinse well in the morning with a mild shampoo.

Another DIY treatment is that of oil and hot water. Take half cup of oil and half cup of boiling water in a bottle and close it tightly. Shake vigorously and then massage this mixture thoroughly on your hair from root to tip and cover with shower cap. Leave it on for half hour, then wash. A word of caution! The water is supposed to be hot, so be careful with your hands & head.

Cream
Cream and honey can also be great for split ends. Sounds delicious and it really works. Cream can be used post washing your hair. Thoroughly beat a tablespoon of heavy cream into half a cup of milk and massage it into your hair for 15 minutes and rinse.

Honey
Honey and yoghurt can work like magic on split ends. Massage a mix of 1 tablespoon honey and 1 cup of yoghurt into your hair for 20 minutes and rinse. Alternately, you can mix two tablespoons honey in four cups warm water and apply to your hair after shampoo to condition your hair. Leave it in your hair and it will control hair dryness and frizz.

Edited by Neelam Goswami on 22-04-2014.