I've learned here that using direct heat often can cause split ends. I'm not natural but before LHCF, I used a hot comb and curling iron on my hair (besides the blow dryer) and had split ends and thinning hair. My hair was see-through.
My hair became stronger only after I gave up all heat which was about 2 1/2 years ago. I also learned to keep my hair moisturized all the time, especially my ends. Preserving the ends is what will show the length since our hair is always growing.
Again, I'm not natural but someone who is may have tips on protecting your ends while pressing.