When it comes to split ends, the damage is done. That means no amount of moisturizing, conditioning and caring is going to fix what is broken, which in this case, is a whole lot of hair. The dreaded split ends happen when the protective cuticle is harmed at the end of the hair. The hair then divides into two or more strands. The end result is a head full of damaged hair. So what causes the split? At the end of the day you have hair dyes, flat irons, sun damage and hair dryers to thank for the wreckage. But that's not all. Overwashing and using the wrong type of hair brush can also contribute to the problem. Now that you know what can cause the problem, it's important to know how to remedy the issue. First and foremost, the most effective way to contend with split ends is paying a visit to your hairdresser.