Many people set out to grow their hair longer, only to feel stuck with strands that never seem to pass a certain length. Despite regular trims and careful routines, hair split ends can make hair look frayed, dry, and lifeless. Oftentimes, it most likely is.
For many people, split ends are seen as a warning. However, they also raise the important question of whether split ends can actually hinder hair growth. The answer is more layered than a categorical yes or no.
What Exactly are Split Ends?
Split ends, also known in technical terms as trichoptilosis, occur when the hair shaft becomes damaged and splits at the tip. This damage compromises the protective cuticle layer, leaving the internal structure of the hair exposed and vulnerable.
Types of Split Ends
Split ends are not uniform—there are different types, such as:
● Basic or Traditional Split (Y-Split)
Split ends are considered a basic or traditional split when the hair strand splits into two parts at the tip, resembling the letter “Y.” It usually occurs due to regular wear and tear, dehydration, or friction from brushing and styling.
● Mini or Baby Split
Mini splits are smaller and less visible versions of the traditional split end. They are an early warning sign that the hair is becoming dry and brittle, as these tiny splits often appear when the hair lacks moisture and nourishment.
● Fork Split
Like its name, a fork split is split into three or more parts. This type of split end usually results from extreme dehydration and prolonged neglect, which makes them look frizzy and uneven.
● Tree Split
Tree splits are characterised by multiple splits occurring mostly on one side of the hair strand, giving the appearance of tree branches. This indicates severe damage and dehydration, often caused by neglecting regular trims for a long time.
● Candle Split
A candle split occurs when the hair strand tapers and thins out at the end, similar to the wick of a candle. This type of damage shows that the hair is brittle and prone to breaking easily. While it’s not a traditional split end, it signals extreme hair weakness.
● Feather Split
Feather splits involve multiple splits on each side of the hair strand, often accompanied by a classic two-way split at the tip. This type of damage is usually caused by weakened hair follicles due to chemical treatments or product buildup.
● Incomplete Split
An incomplete split is a partial split where the hair strand begins to divide but does not fully separate, and can sometimes cause the strand to loop back or form a small hole. It often results from rough styling or mechanical damage, such as aggressive brushing or heat styling.
Do Split Ends Actually Stop Hair from Growing?
Hair grows from the follicles located within the scalp, where new cells are produced that push older cells upwards, forming the visible hair shaft. Split ends, occurring further down the strand, have no influence over the activity at the follicle level. Therefore, split ends do not physically stop hair from growing, but they do create the illusion that hair is not growing.
If My Hair Keeps Growing, Why Is My Length Not Changing?
The sensation of "stuck" hair is typically the result of breakage rather than an issue with growth itself. Hair may be growing perfectly well at the roots, but if the ends continue to split and break off, the hair will not retain the added length.
Without regular trimming and appropriate hair care, split ends can progressively worsen, leading to severe thinning along the lengths. Hair may appear stringy, uneven, and shorter over time, even though growth cycles remain normal at the scalp.
Can Split Ends Be Repaired Without Cutting Them?
While no product can permanently fuse a split end back together, the right hair treatment serum can work wonders in managing split ends and supporting healthier hair growth. A high-quality hair treatment serum acts by coating the hair strands to create a protective barrier that helps seal the cuticle temporarily and reduce further splitting.
Regularly using a hair strengthening serum that is rich in nourishing ingredients becomes an essential part of a maintenance routine for anyone looking to minimise split ends and reduce breakage.
Invest in a Good Hair Treatment Serum from Follicle Labs
Split ends do not physically stop hair from growing, but they are a clear warning sign that some things must be changed. One of the best defences against split ends is incorporating a premium hair treatment serum into your routine.
At Follicle Labs, our serum has been specially formulated to nourish, protect, and fortify your hair from root to tip. With consistent use, our serum can help seal your damaged ends and restore your hair’s natural strength and shine.
Shop our collection of hair serums to start your journey towards longer, healthier hair today.