African American are already known for having dry brittle hair.I have a friend that is a hair stylist and she said to use olive oil.The key is to keep your hair moisurized.You need ingredients that say Panthenol.This you will find in Pantene and Tresemme products.I know that African Americans love to do alot of braiding their hair.As I braid my hair constantly.But, if you must use something to moisturize before braiding.As for split ends.You can trim them yourself.Just above where it is splittingTo peel it off will just make it split more