How to Make Hair Ends Softer

Last Updated: April 5, 2022 References

Sometimes it can seem impossible to achieve soft, great looking hair. The ends are often a big part of the problem. When they split, it makes them seem dry and unruly. Having a good hair day is possible. In fact, there are ways to make your hair ends softer that will make your hair feel soft and silky every day. You can take several steps to make your hair ends softer.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Choosing the Right Products

1
Find the right shampoo and conditioner. One of the keys to making the ends of your hair softer is to keep your hair healthy and strong. In order to do that, you need to choose products that will do the job most effectively. Each person has individual hair needs, so pay close attention to the shampoo and conditioner you use.
- If your hair is dry, look for a shampoo that boasts extra hydration. Dryness can be a major factor in keeping your ends looking rough.
- A lot of people color their hair, and the process of dyeing your hair can cause damage. If you color yours, look for products that offer color protection.
- Look for a shampoo that lists vitamin H and silk protein in the ingredients.These will help boost shine and silkiness.
- Try different shampoos and conditioners. Your hair will react differently to each brand, so don't be afraid to experiment and find the one you like best.
2
Try leave-in products. In order to get extra moisture into your hair, you might need some products that take some time to soak in. Instead of using traditional conditioner that you rinse out right away, use some leave-in products to help smooth out your ends. There are a lot of effective leave-in conditioners you can try.^{[1]
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- Look for a light weight spray. A spray conditioner makes it easy to target specific areas, such as the ends of your hair.
- The benefit of a leave-in conditioner is that it keeps adding moisture to your hair. This makes it much harder for your hair to dry out or develop split ends.
- If you have fine hair, look for a formula that does not contain oil. Otherwise, you risk weighing your hair down.
- Leave-in conditioners are great for smoothing out thick out. Since they act as a natural de-tangler, you will do less damage to your hair when combing it out.
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3
Use a natural hot oil treatment. The chemicals in beauty products can sometimes cause damage to your hair. Consider making your own hair products. There are many natural ingredients that can help you achieve smooth and shiny hair.^{[2]
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- Try giving yourself a hot oil treatment. You can use a variety of oils that you probably already have at your house. You can use coconut, olive, avocado, or almond oils.
- Gently heat a small amount of your chosen oil. Start with about 1/4 cup and heat in the microwave or the stove until the oil is hot, but not too hot to comfortably touch.
- Before starting the hot oil treatment, wash your hair but don't dry it. When hair is damp, gently massage hot oil into your hair.
- Wrap your head with a warm towel. Cover that towel with another to help seal in the heat. After an hour, rinse the oil out of your silky hair.
4
Experiment with food. Split ends are often a major problem. Fortunately, there are many food items that can be very beneficial for your hair. Head to your kitchen and look for some ingredients to help you give yourself an at home treatment. Try different combinations until you find the ones that work best for your hair.^{[3]
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- For example, you can combine the flesh of one avocado with 2 tablespoons of egg whites, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Mash together with a fork or spoon until you get a creamy consistency.
- Apply the mixture to your hair and cover with a shower cap. After 1 hour, rinse your hair and wash with a gentle shampoo.
- Try using the above method with different ingredients. Another great combination is the flesh of one papaya and 1/2 cup of plain yogurt.
- You can also use beer to help make your hair silky and smooth. The proteins and sugars provide a lot of beauty benefits. Put beer in a spray bottle and spritz on hair. Rinse thoroughly and then wash with shampoo.
5
Get a professional treatment. If your hair refuses to cooperate, you might need to seek professional help. A professional stylist will have access to products that can not only make your hair shiny and smooth, but the results will last for several weeks or even months. Ask the employees at your salon to recommend a process that is right for you.^{[4]
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Expert Source

Michelle Bebbington
Professional Hair Stylist
Expert Interview. 3 August 2021.}
- One option is to have a chemical straightening treatment. This will give you smooth, shiny locks.
- Ask your stylist about thermal reconditioning. This is another chemical treatment that is suitable for thicker, curly hair.
- A Brazilian Keratin treatment is a popular option. It is less harsh than other chemical processes.
- Chemical treatments can be expensive, so make sure to inquire about price before booking your appointment.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Establishing an Effective Routine

1
Wash your hair correctly. It turns out that there is actually a "right" way to wash your hair. And many people are doing it wrong. First, look at the amount of shampoo you are using. It's likely too much. You should not be using an amount greater than the size of a quarter.^{[5]
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- Avoid vigorously rubbing or massaging your head. Putting more pressure on your strands can actually cause fly-aways and rough ends.
- Rinse shampoo out before conditioning. Make sure to get rid of excess water by gently squeezing or wringing out your hair.
- Rinse your hair with cool water. Hot water can damage your color and your hair. You don't have to take a cold shower, but you should turn the water temperature down before you rinse.
- Only wash your hair every other day. This allows the natural oils in your hair time to repair. On the days you don't wash, you can still rinse with water or dry shampoo.
2
Avoid heat styling. Heat can damage your hair. Specifically, it can cause the ends to split or become dry. Limit the amount of heat styling you do on your hair.^{[6]
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- Air dry as often as possible. Daily blow drying can quickly cause your hair to loose it's luster.
- Using a straightening iron can make your hair appear shiny and soft temporarily. But in reality, it damages the hair by weakening the follicles and drying it out.
- Try to limit straightening your hair to once a week. Look for other ways to style your hair, such as experimenting with texturizing sprays.
- When you do use heat, use a protectant. There are many sprays you can use to limit the damage done by hot tools. Ask your stylist to recommend a good one.
3
Comb it out. Your hair is particularly prone to damage when it is wet. It is often tangled after washing and can easily break. Make sure to always comb your wet hair instead of brushing.
- Use a wide-tooth plastic comb. This is the most gentle tool for your hair. You can get a great one for under $5 at your local drugstore.
- Avoid tugging on your hair. It can be tempting to yank on tangles, but that can cause breakage. Take the time to gently work tangles out, using the comb and your fingers.
- Keep your comb clean. A dirty comb can spread unwanted chemicals and dirt through your hair. Wash your comb with a gentle soap at least once a week.
4
Apply a mask regularly. A mask is a product that you apply and leave on your hair for about an hour. They are a great way to add moisture to your hair. You can purchase hair masks at your local drug store or beauty supply store, or you can make your own.^{[7]
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- If you purchase a mask, consider buying one that contains Moroccan oil. This ingredient does a great job of adding moisture to hair, especially the ends.
- You can use a lot of different food products to make moisturizing masks. Try mixing 1 overripe banana with 1 teaspoon each of olive oil, honey, and coconut oil.
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until very smooth. Apply to hair and let sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
- You can also had a handful of fresh strawberries, and 1 tablespoon each of honey and coconut oil to a blender. Mix until pureed, then apply to hair for anywhere from 10-50 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
5
Stick to a schedule. In order to get smooth and silky ends, you need to make hair care a priority. Get in the habit of caring for your hair on a daily basis. For example, take care to use the right products and not over-style.^{[8]
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- Make time in your schedule for air drying your hair. This might mean that you need to get up earlier or start washing your hair at night.
- Plan ahead each week. This will help you figure out the best days to wash your hair and the best time to use dry shampoo.
- Take time each week to give your hair extra hydration. For example, apply a moisturizing mask each Wednesday evening.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Practicing Healthy Hair Care Habits

1
Find a great stylist. To keep your hair looking healthy and smooth, you can establish several good hair care habits. One of the most important things you can do is to find a stylist who is effective.^{[9]
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Expert Source

Michelle Bebbington
Professional Hair Stylist
Expert Interview. 3 August 2021.} You want someone who knows how to work with different hair types and can offer you good tips.^{[10]
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- Do your research. Ask family and friends to recommend a stylist that they love.
- Read online reviews. This can help you get a sense of how good your potential stylist is.
- Consider price. It might be tempting to head straight to a fancy salon, but if you have to scrimp and save to get a hair cut, you'll be less likely to regularly go.
2
Get regular trims. The number one way to have healthy hair ends is to frequently trim your hair. Even if you are trying to grow your hair out, don't neglect having your stylist perform regular maintenance.^{[11]
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Expert Source

Michelle Bebbington
Professional Hair Stylist
Expert Interview. 3 August 2021.} Getting rid of split ends is important for keeping your hair strong and healthy.^{[12]
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- You should get a trim every 2-3 months. If you go longer, your hair can look uneven and straggly.
- Schedule appointments in advance. That way, you don't have to worry about your stylist not being able to fit you in.
3
Eat a healthy diet. What you eat can affect the health of your hair. Take care to monitor your foods and make sure that you are getting the right combination of nutrients. Certain foods are especially beneficial for the health of your hair.^{[13]
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- Make sure to get plenty of healthy fats. Walnuts are a great source of omega-3s, which can help your hair look strong.
- Salmon is also a good healthy fat. Pair some in a salad with avocado.
- Blueberries contain anti-aging properties. This can help your hair look young and fresh.

Expert Q&A

Question

Why are the ends of my hair so dry and brittle?

Michelle Bebbington
Professional Hair Stylist
Michelle Bebbington is a Professional Hair Stylist and the Owner of The Living Room Hair and Skin based in Great Falls, Montana. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in hair education, coloring, and styling.

Michelle Bebbington

Professional Hair Stylist

Expert Answer

If you're suffering from dry ends, it's probably from heat or environmental reasons.
Question

My hair is so rough and long and curly. What can I do?

Community Answer

Mix a cup of water, two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and 10 drops of essential oils in a spray bottle and spritz that into your hair to make it softer.
Question

My hair is short. As an Indian, I regularly oil and shampoo my hair, but my ends are still dry. What should I do?

Community Answer

Try to shampoo your hair less often to let your natural oils come back and nourish the hair. Use a good conditioner whenever you wash and try not to use too much heat on the hair.