Split ends: we’ve all experienced them and know how easily they can ruin a good hair day. Regular trims can help prevent them, but did you know that some hair types are more prone to splits than others? It’s true - curly hair, by the very nature of its structure, is more prone to split ends and the curlier the hair, the easier it is for it to split.

“But why?!” she cried in curly girl. 

Think for a moment about the structure of the hair shaft: remember that the outermost layer called the cuticle, is made up of what looks like shingles on a roof, layered on top of each other to form a protective barrier, keeping essential nutrients in and harmful environmental aggressors out. When they’re healthy, those shingles lay flat against the hair shaft.

Now picture a straight hair shaft: under a microscope, it looks similar to a straw, with very little bend. The cuticle layers lay flat on top of each other because there aren’t any dips or curves to trip them up.

Now picture a curly hair shaft: even with no additional damage or dehydration, the flat cuticle shingles have a difficult time laying flush against the hair shaft because of its curvature - and the curvier (or more coily) the hair shaft, the more open cuticles you’ll find. Open cuticles allow moisture to escape, so curly hair needs more moisture than straighter hair. 

The good news: there’s plenty you can do to keep your curls intact! A good curl care routine involves lots of moisture, gentle handling, and nightly protection for your hair - plus our Don’t Despair, Repair! Moisture + Damage Defense Leave-In Treatment to visibly seal up to 100% of split ends in just two uses!