Hair braiding has a deep root in history. Both men and women have been braiding their hair for centuries. Many link the cultural heritage of braiding to Africa. Tribes in Africa used the hairstyle as an indicator of wealth, power, and tribal allegiance. Today, the popularity of braided hairstyles has spread around the world. If you decide to leap into the world of braids, here’s how to care for them properly and keep them looking great for longer.
There are so many elegant hair braiding styles that can upgrade your look. Braided hairstyles like box braids, knotless braids, cornrows, and French braids are popular choices for protecting natural hair. Many of these styles will perfectly match your hair styling needs. However, maintaining your braids is crucial to keep them looking fabulous and long-lasting. This article will discuss how to take care of your braids. Here are some essential tips to ensure your braid gets the care it deserves.
Prep Your Hair
Before getting your hair braided, it is essential to ensure that you have healthy hair that can handle this style. Your hair also needs to be clean and well-conditioned. Use a clarifying shampoo to eliminate dirt and any product buildup. This step is crucial for creating a strong foundation for the braids.
Moisturize the Scalp
Moisturizing your scalp is crucial for taking care of your braids. It helps control flakiness and dryness, keeping your head and scalp healthy. Some of the reasons that cause scalp dryness are dehydration, daily hair washing, weather changes, and harsh hair products.
You can prevent scalp dryness by regularly moisturizing your scalp while caring for your braids. Use a lightweight oil or moisturizing shampoo to provide adequate moisture to your scalp and roots for maximum health.
Wash Your Braids Every Other Week
Washing your braids every other week ensures they do not pick up dirt, dust, sweat, and odors. You can clean your braids the same way you wash your hair. Mix your shampoo with water before applying it to your scalp. Then, massage your scalp gently and rinse with lukewarm water.
Do Not Overstyle
By saying no to over-styling, you can ensure your braids last longer while keeping your hair healthy and protected. Avoid constantly pulling and styling that puts strain on the roots and edges. This will help prevent stress on your hair and reduce the risk of breakage.
Further, opt for gentle hairstyles that do not pull on your roots excessively. Loose styles, such as loose braids, can help minimize tension. If you want to accessorize, choose lightweight options and avoid anything that pulls or weighs your braids down.
Silk or Satin Pillowcases
Cotton pillowcases can cause friction, hair breakage, and frizz. Choose silk or satin pillowcases, which reduce friction and keep your braids looking fresh. You can also wrap your hair at night using a silk bonnet or scarf. This protects your hair from breakage and prevents the roots from drying out.
Avoid Excessive Moisture
While it’s essential to keep your scalp and braids moisturized, excessive moisture can lead to issues such as mildew, mold growth, and even hair breakage. Avoid excessive moisture and be mindful of how often you wet your braids. Instead of frequent washing, use a lightweight moisturizing spray or oil to hydrate your scalp and braids as needed.
Don’t Use Unnatural Products
Avoid using products that contain harsh chemicals or ingredients that could potentially damage your hair or scalp. You should choose natural or organic hair care products whenever possible. Natural products such as coconut oil, almond oil, or aloe vera gel can effectively moisturize and nourish your scalp and braids.
Conclusion
Braided hairstyles are popular choices for protecting natural hair. However, like any hairstyle, braids require special care to keep them in great shape. While braids need less maintenance than other styles, proper care is crucial to maintain healthy braids and prevent breakage or permanent damage.
Caring for your braids involves several important steps to keep them looking great. A proper braid care routine helps you maintain the health and longevity of your braid. Avoid over-styling to prevent hair breakage and scalp tension. Opt for natural hair care products to support scalp health without harsh chemicals. Instead of cotton, use silk or satin pillowcases to keep the edges fresh and well-maintained. By following these steps, you can ensure that your braids remain beautiful, neat, and healthy.