How can I get rid of split ends? Common haircare questions answered

Does your hair need an SOS? We asked Pankhurst & Deane co-founder Emma Pankhurst to reveal her top tricks and tips for the most commonly asked haircare questions.

How do I get rid of my split ends?

Emma says: “You can’t repair split ends with any product or treatment, but you can prevent them. Trimming your hair regularly will keep your hair free of split ends.

“You can also reduce damage by avoiding drying your hair with a towel, as this can cause breakages. Instead of rubbing your head with a towel, apply pressure to gently squeeze out any excess water.”

How can I reduce frizz?

Emma says: “Applying heat to hair can help straighten it, but the downside is that it dries it out. So the answer is to invest in a good hydrating treatment.

“Also let your hair dry naturally, but if you are using a hairdryer, avoid touching the hair with the nozzle as direct heat can cause frizziness. Instead, position it just above the hair and brush.”

How often should I get my hair cut?

Emma says: “We recommend that you get a trim or cut every 6 weeks, more often if you have a bob or shorter style to keep the shape.”

How often should I wash my hair?

Emma says: “It depends on your hair type, but frequent washing can strip the hair of its natural oils. If you have dry hair, shampoo a maximum of two times a week, oily hair may need washing every day on the other hand. Normal hair should be washed once or twice a week.”

How to make every day a good hair day

We all know the feeling… our hair won’t behave and, pathetic as it seems, we can’t help feeling that it’s ruined the rest of the day.

But help is at hand. Just follow our four tips and you’ll never have another bad hair day again. We promise!

Use protection

The easiest way to ensure that you have a good hair day is to use a heat protectant spray after you wash your hair, and before you use any styling tools like straighteners, curlers or hairdryers. Not only will this protect your hair from any heat damage, but it will also create the perfect base for you to create the perfect look.

Shiny happy hair

We all know that shiny hair equals healthy hair - just look at Meghan Markle! So if you want to make every day a Good Hair Day, simply invest in a good hair mask and make it a regular ritual to deeply condition your locks.

Add volume

Gentle backcombing (think a little tussle rather than full on 80s style) can help your hair look full of life. To do this, start at the roots and tease the hair over your brush and then give it a blast with your favourite hairspray.

Fake it

Even when you’re having an off day you can still bring it back with some handy handbag essentials like dry shampoo and hair serum.

Good Hair Day

8 things women with long hair NEVER do (and why you shouldn't, either)

Long hair

Trying to grow your hair or simply maintain your already luscious locks? Read on... 

1. Never use harsh shampoos

Shampoos that strip the scalp of its natural oils are a complete no-no! You need to understand that the longer the hair, the drier the ends.

You need to cleanse the dirt but you can't strip your hair of its nutrients. Opt for a super mild shampoo and conditioner and see the difference.

2. Never skip haircare regimes

The longer your hair, the more it gets damaged by the heat, styling and sun damage. So make sure you take some time out once a week to do a hair mask or give yourself an oil massage. Take yourself out to get a hair spa treatment with us once a month, too. 

3. Never ill-treat wet hair

Seriously, never ever start using the blow dryer on dripping wet hair! Make sure you towel dry hair thoroughly and let it semi air dry before you apply heat. Also, do yourself a favour and get a microfibre towel, which is gentler on the hair. Don't forget to add moisture with hair serum and heat protectant. 

4. Never backcomb your hair for volume

Teasing is the worst thing that you could do to your long hair. Your hair is already stressed by the weight. Instead, invest in a great texturising spray and scrunch your hair for volume.

5. Never douse your hair in chemicals

Steer clear of alcohol-laden hair sprays and products with parabens, especially when those products need to be applied to your ends. Remember, the longer your hair the more nourishment your ends need!

6. Never cancel your trim appointments

You know how we keep recommending that you get regular trims? Well, we're not just saying it for fun - it's vital to do so when you have long hair to keep it healthy and strong.

7. Never tie your hair up the same way

This is a two-fold misdemeanour: give your hair a break, switch up the position of your ponytail/bun, let your hair down or braid it. Make sure your hair is not tied too tight and you don't use a hair elastic that causes breakage. 

8. Never use plastic hair brushes

Use a ceramic or wooden bristle brush. It is less harsh on your scalp and also makes sure the natural oils get evenly distributed through the hair. 

This is an edited version of beauty journalist Kannagi Desai's article on the Popxo website. Read the original version here.

 

Three ways to repair chemically damaged hair

Too many chemical treatments, like hair dyes, professional straightening or perms, can leave your hair in serious need of some TLC.

While going for a drastic chop and starting again is one option, if you can't face a completely new look there are a few things you can do to repair your hair and stop it from getting worse...

Damaged hair

Unlike your skin, your hair doesn't regenerate itself once it is damaged. The good news is, increasing the moisture with a hydrating mask can help bond the hair cuticles back, both in the salon and at home. Talk to us today about the moisturising treatments we have on offer.

If you're doing a DIY hair mask, aim for once a week. You can even sleep in it overnight (with hair wrapped in a microfibre towel) for maximum hydration.

Another way to improve the appearance of frazzled hair by combing conditioner through your mid-lengths and ends before rinsing, which has the effect of smoothing the hair cuticles down.

A fortifying hair serum nourishes the scalp and hair follicles. We like L'Oreal's Absolute Repair Serum, which you can buy here.

A great haircut will also revitalise hair and make you look - and feel - better about your damaged hair. You don't have to do anything drastic. We can work with your hair to create a style that complements the way it moves.