Yes, There Are Different Types Of Split Ends: How To Identify & Help The Ones You Have

Did you know there are different types of split ends? It's true: Much like brows, split ends are sisters, not twins. While they each signal damage done to the strand, there are slight nuances to the various types of frays. 

So why might you see these different splits? Well, it typically depends on the amount of damage done to your strands. You don't randomly sprout a "baby" versus a "tree"; rather, a tiny split usually signals the beginning stages of damage. "If [split ends are] not treated, they will continue to split, causing multiple splitting, which can look feathered or tree-like," says hairstylist Gigi Lenora. So if you do notice a few more branches poking out of the strand or deep splits up the hair shaft, it usually indicates more damage on the cuticle.

No matter what type of split ends you have, there's only one way to truly treat the damage: Snip those hairs clean off. "Once ends are split, this damage is irreversible, and the healthiest option is to trim," Lenora explains. 

However, you can also opt for a "dusting" if you're looking to shear those frays without losing any length. Dusting might be an especially great way to get rid of the "feather" or "tree" splits—those branches might stick out more noticeably when you twist a section of hair, making it easier for you to trim them off. 

While resorting to scissors is technically the only way to actually "mend" split ends, there are a number of preventive measures to take if you can't see a stylist (so the classic "Y" doesn't turn into a full-on "tree"). That's where your conditioners and masks come into play to seal down the cuticle, as well as stylers to lock in moisture; as hairstylist Jenni Nguyen, owner of Prep & Foxx, tells us about preventing split ends, "If the hair is not properly moisturized and hydrated, split ends and breakage can happen much more frequently." Other than that, there's a host of things you can do to prevent further damage on splitting hairs (all of which are outlined here). 

While there are different types of split ends, they each indicate damage on the strand, albeit in varying degrees. They all ultimately require the same treatment (a trim) to start anew, but standard hair care practices can help prevent more damage while you wait for the salon.