Trichoptilosis (from the Greek τριχο- tricho- "hair" and the New Latin ptilosis "arrangement of feathers in definite areas" from the Greek πτίλον ptilon "feather"), schizotrichia, and informally split ends, is the splitting or fraying of the hair-shaft due to excessive heat and mechanical stress.[1]
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Thermal, chemical or mechanical stress can cause split ends. For example, the use of curling irons and other heat treatments may cause split ends. Excessive application of hair products such as perms and hair coloring may strip protective layering off the outside of the hair's shaft and weaken the hair, making the hair prone to split ends. Mechanical stresses include pulling a comb forcefully through tangled hair and repeated combing. This can be seen in copper transport disorders such as Menke's disease and occipital horn syndrome. [2]
There is no way to repair split ends; when they occur, the split part of the hair must be trimmed. There are, however, certain types of shampoos that give the appearance of repaired split ends.
Reducing or eliminating the causes will usually prevent split ends. Trimming the ends of the hair at least every 6- 10 weeks may prevent split ends. Also, hair at the highest risk for splitting can be removed.