Trim How Much?

I've been trying to maximize my hair's growth before my wedding in October, so I have tried to trim only a quarter inch every couple of months.

The result is that I now have some very dry and tangly ends with splits, which I've never dealt with before. It's my fault. Trimming too little made my hair difficult to comb and detangle, and the stress caused by trying made more damage, etc.

I know I need to face up to a "real" trim to make my hair healthy, and I have a stylist I can trust to cut whatever I ask, but how do I know how much needs to go?

The tangles and splits seem to be in the last inch of my hair, but I don't want to cut too little and possibly perpetuate the problem.

Bob, I'll try that! Thank you! I have in the past gone for long periods without splits, but this time...oh, boy!

Does your wife comb it out in the shower then?

Hi Ally,

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!

Have you tried using jojoba oil on the ends? Just a couple of drops in the palm of your hand, then rub the palms of your hands together (to spread the oil very thin), and work it into the last few inches of your hair. If 2 drops isn't enough, try more (and if too much, next time use less). This should make a huge difference in the "tangliness."

Let me know if this works for you.

Hi Ally,

I bought a bottle of the Aveda Beautifying Composition (jojoba with added EOs) years ago and am still using it, so I haven't shopped for jojoba in awhile.

It's my understanding that it can be purchased at any health food store (that is truly a real health food store). I don't know if Sally's stocks it, but they should.

It goes on dry hair only. It's the only way to know how much to apply. Mastering the technique took me probably a dozen times. So practice on wash days. Start with a tiny amount, and if that isn't enough, add another tiny amount, and so on, until you think you've got it right. It's easy to overdo (my hair is fairly fine)... there is a fine line between "still too dry" and "lank." The results of doing it well are definitely worth the effort, though. I highly recommend the stuff.