Braids are almost like a default option when it comes to protective styling. For many, having braids is an easier way to maintain natural hair, and may seem like the perfect excuse to ignore it all together.
Neglecting your hair while it’s in braids can cause a number of issues that can damage your hair in the long run. Here’s why you shouldn’t ignore your hair when it’s in braids, plus tips on how to maintain healthy hair when it’s in braids.
Firstly, ignoring your hair when it’s in braids can lead to breakage. Braids can be quite tight, especially at the root, and leaving them in for too long can cause damage to your hair follicles. This can lead to hair breakage, which is never a good thing.
In addition, neglecting your hair when it’s in braids can cause your hair to become tangled and matted, which can be a nightmare to detangle when it’s time to take your braids out.
So, how do you maintain healthy hair when it’s in braids? Firstly, make sure you’re moisturizing your scalp regularly. Just because your hair is in braids doesn’t mean your scalp doesn’t need to be nourished.
Opt for a water-based hair moisturizer like the Tsavorite Spritz Moisturizer Hair Spray and spray it onto your scalp regularly.
Follow it up with a natural oil like our Tanzanite Hair Oil or Emerald Hair Food and massage into your scalp every few days. This will help to prevent your scalp from becoming dry and itchy.
Secondly, don’t forget to cleanse your scalp. It’s easy to think that because your hair is in braids, you don’t need to wash it. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
A clean scalp is a healthy scalp, so make sure you’re cleansing your scalp every couple of weeks. Cleanse with our sulfate-free Sapphire Hair Shampoo and apply some leave-in conditioner and hair food afterwards to replenish your hair.
Lastly, protect your hair while you sleep. Cotton pillowcases can cause friction and lead to breakage, so opt for a satin or silk pillowcase instead. You can also wear a silk scarf or satin bonnet to protect your hair while you sleep.
In conclusion, don’t neglect your hair when it’s in braids – keep it moisturized, cleanse your scalp regularly, and protect your hair while you sleep. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your hair remains healthy and strong even while it’s in braids.