We often hear the advice to trim our ends, but for those of us chasing serious length, it's a step we're often reluctant to take too frequently. However, to truly achieve and maintain that desired length, letting go of damaged ends is presented as non-negotiable. So, is it *really* essential?
1. Why should you trim your ends?
The benefits of regular trimming
If you've ever trimmed your ends, you must have noticed how pleasant it is to run your fingers through your hair afterward; it feels stronger, healthier, and in better condition.
It's not necessary to cut more than one centimeter unless your hair is severely damaged. This can be done gradually.
Preventing split ends
Split ends are a natural wear and tear of the hair tips, but they can appear more or less quickly depending on your habits.
What are the reasons why your split ends will form?
- Excessive manipulation, brushing your hair too vigorously and too regularly
- Using a hairdryer, straightener, or curling iron
- Your hair is dry
- Exposure to sun, wind, and pollution
Growth stimulation?
Well, that would be great, but it's not the case.
Basically, even if trimming your ends won't make your hair grow faster, it helps keep your hair in good shape. You remove damaged parts to prevent the rest from getting damaged too. A small refresh every few months is essential for your hair to remain beautiful and strong. This way, it will continue to grow without being interrupted by split or brittle ends.
2. Myths and realities about trimming ends
Myth 1: “Trimming makes hair thicker”
This is just an impression, because damaged ends are generally thinner, and the lengths are thicker.
In any case, you cannot change the thickness of your existing hair lengths.
We all have different hair textures; some have thick hair, others thin. This is determined by your genetics. However, it's possible for your hair to grow out fine, or for your scalp not to be adequately cared for. It's important to take care of it to optimize hair growth and quality.
Myth 2: "Trimming too often is bad”
Many of us want length. Unless you're doing a transition, don't cut every month, or your length will stagnate.
Hair grows between 0.8 cm and 1 cm, which is between 9 and 12 cm per year, not counting breakage.
Myth 3: “Trimming accelerates hair growth”
I'm repeating myself, but it's so it really sinks in. If you want to accelerate your growth, focus on your scalp while preserving your lengths.
3. When should you trim?
If you see these signs, it's time to trim your ends...
Breakage, small hairs everywhere...
You find small pieces of hair everywhere when you style your hair, in the bathroom, on your shoulders.
It's normal to lose hair daily, whole hairs, in which case you see the bulb.
Dry and thinned ends
Generally, it's visible to the naked eye, and when you run a brush through your hair, it snags a bit at the ends, which causes more breakage.
4. Don't hesitate to see an at-home Afro hairstylist or visit an Afro hair salon
It's important to trim your ends regularly to maintain hair health and prevent split ends from worsening, at least once a year if this step is too difficult for you. The best approach is to consult a hairstylist for advice on the best way to care for them. Every 3 or 4 months remains a good rhythm for trimming your ends, and know that it's not necessary to cut 1 cm every time; it can be less, just to refresh your cut.
On Zenaba, you can find an at-home hairstylist near you here.
