This typically occurs when the hair's protective outer layer wears away and exposes the inner fibre, causing the strand to split. These can often happen due to practices like heat styling, chemical treatments, rough brushing or simply inadequate nourishment. Although trimming seems to be the only permanent solution, split ends can be prevented with mindful care and healthy hair care habits. With gentle techniques, hydrating treatments and protective tools, split ends can be prevented and provide a stronger, smoother and more resilient hair. Those who do not want to trim their hair after every few months to increase its length often search for a solution, "how to prevent split ends naturally at home." Well, we are here to help you. To prevent split ends and strengthen hair, there is no need to spend money on expensive salon treatments. Simple, natural hair care hacks can help shield the hair, lock in moisture and build strength from roots to ends. Here are seven hair care hacks to prevent split ends and strengthen the strands naturally. Best Natural Tips For Split Ends And Strengthen Hair Be Gentle After Hair Washing Wet hair is usually fragile and thus, it needs to be handled with care after washing. Rubbing the hair can cause friction and breakage, leading to split ends. Instead, use a soft towel or a microfibre towel to gently blot the hair, which helps absorb the hair without pulling on strands. This helps to reduce stress on hair cuticles and keeps the ends healthier for longer. Detangle Hair With Care Tangled knots cause unnecessary breakage when tugging or forcing a comb through them. To detangle the hair with care, use a wide-tooth comb, as it glides through hair more gently. Start combing from the ends and move up to the roots to pull and reduce damage. Hydrate Your Hair One of the main causes of split ends is dryness. Opt for deep conditioning treatments like hair masks for replenishing lost moisture, providing a stronger and smoother hair that is more resistant to breakage. These treatments also contain concentrated ingredients that soak into the hair shaft and reduce dryness and frizziness. You can either buy ready-made masks or create a DIY hair mask at home with coconut oil, honey, aloe vera, or olive oil. Use once a week for best results. Reduce Heat Treatments Heat styling tools such as blow-dryers, curling irons and straighteners weaken hair proteins and strip away moisture. Allow the hair to air-dry and embrace heat-free styling methods. When using heat tools, keep the temperature low and always use heat protectant spray beforehand, which helps to form a barrier that reduces direct heat damage. Tips To Prevent Split Ends And Strengthen Hair (Image Credits: Canva) Avoid Overbrushing Although brushing is necessary for styling and smoothing, doing it often can cause split ends. Overbrushing not only stresses the strands but can also strip away natural oils that keep them nourished. Brush the hair when needed and always use gentle, slow and even strokes rather than tugging or pulling. Sleep On Silk Pillow can be a major cause of split ends. Cotton pillowcases create friction, which can weaken hair fibres over time. Silk or satin pillowcases allow the hair to glide smoothly while sleeping, reducing breakage. Take Breaks Between Hair Treatments Chemical treatments like colouring, perming or relaxing can severely damage the hair shaft, especially if done too frequently. Allow an 8-10 week gap between each hair treatment. Do not do more than one chemical process at a time. Also, use weekly conditioning masks or instant conditioners after each wash to restore hydration and protect your strands. These natural hair care hacks not only prevent split ends but also strengthen the hair. They also help to maintain long hair by reducing frequent hair trims. Also, they help maintain healthy and shiny hair.