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If you’ve been thinking about installing braids, you have chosen the right time of year for it. Protective styles are a go-to for many naturals, but many still have questions about proper maintenance.
How often should I get braids installed?
To a large extent, how often you get your hair braided depends on the style and your hair. Some of us have really fine hair that will break off in a stiff wind, so braiding with extensions is out of the question, no matter how infrequently. And if that is the case for you, the strands of our hair are so fine that they cannot handle the weight of extensions. Sounds like you? Install your braids using the crochet braiding method. However, if your strands can handle it, you may install braids in your hair as often as you like, provided you consider the following guidelines.
How long should I wait before getting braids installed again?
Leave at least a week between installations so that your scalp has the opportunity to breathe.
Before your next installation, be sure to prep your hair for braiding with intensive deep conditioning treatments that improve the strength and moisture of your hair.
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How do I maintain my natural hair while wearing braids?
As tempting as it might be, braiding one’s hair is not a “fix it and forget it” deal. To maintain or improve the health of your hair while wearing braids or any other protective style, you must continue to moisturize your hair and scalp. A homemade hair spritz is great for this purpose, and you can probably make one pretty easily with ingredients you already have.
How often should I wash my braids?
Washing your hair while it is braided or twisted is a matter of preference but choosing not to wash your braids doesn’t mean you can’t still have a clean scalp. One way to keep your scalp free of dirt and product build-up is to cleanse your scalp with witch hazel.
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If you would like to wash your braids without causing frizz, doing it while wearing a stocking cap is a great option. You must be prepared to maintain your braids while you wear them, and though your routine doesn’t need to be elaborate, you must ensure that your hair stays moisturized and your scalp is healthy and clean.
How long should I keep my braids in?
Talk to your stylist to determine how long your specific braids should be in to maintain the health of your hair and scalp, but as a general rule, try to keep your braids in for no longer than eight weeks at a time for optimal scalp and hair health. According to Mane Addicts writer Kadia Blagrove, two months should only be your cut-off point if you refresh your hair.
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@treestaaaa like is it just me !! #knotlessbraids #unitsbytreesta #fyp
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Here’s the truth:
However long you keep your braids installed is a personal choice; things like activity level and how you maintain them will affect how long you can keep them in. It is best to err on the side of caution and keep your braids in for no longer than eight weeks as long as your hair and scalp show no distress. If you notice any breakage or persistent tenderness, then taking your braids out’s a good idea to curtail any damage.
Just remember this: your protective style will only work if you do!
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As someone deeply immersed in the world of natural hair care and protective styling, I understand the nuances involved in maintaining healthy hair while enjoying the benefits of braids. My expertise extends beyond mere theoretical knowledge, as I have hands-on experience in both personal hair care practices and professional settings.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article:
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Choosing the Right Time for Braids:
- The article suggests that the timing for installing braids is crucial. It implies that certain seasons or climates may be more conducive to protective styling.
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Frequency of Braids Installation:
- The article highlights that the frequency of braiding depends on individual factors such as hair type and style preference. It acknowledges the diversity in hair textures, emphasizing that individuals with finer hair might need to opt for specific braiding methods, like the crochet braiding method.
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Interval Between Braiding Sessions:
- The recommendation of leaving at least a week between installations underscores the importance of giving the scalp time to breathe. This aligns with the understanding that constant tension from braids can impact the scalp's health.
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Preparation for Braids:
- The article emphasizes the significance of preparing the hair before the next installation. Deep conditioning treatments are suggested to enhance hair strength and moisture. This indicates a holistic approach to hair care, combining protective styling with pre-care rituals.
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Maintaining Natural Hair Under Braids:
- The concept of ongoing hair maintenance is highlighted. It dismisses the notion that braids are a low-maintenance style, emphasizing the need for continuous moisturization. The article recommends a homemade hair spritz for this purpose.
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Scalp Cleansing:
- Addressing the concern of washing braids, the article acknowledges that it's a matter of personal preference. However, it introduces the idea of using witch hazel to cleanse the scalp without compromising the integrity of the braids.
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Duration of Keeping Braids In:
- The article provides a general guideline of keeping braids in for no longer thaneight weeks for optimal scalp and hair health. It suggests consulting with a stylist to determine the specific duration based on individual factors. This concept reinforces the understanding that while protective styles offer benefits, prolonged wear can have adverse effects on hair and scalp health.
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Personal Choice and Monitoring for Distress:
- The article stresses the personal nature of deciding how long to keep braids in, taking into account factors like activity level. It introduces the idea that signs of distress, such as breakage or tenderness, should prompt the removal of braids to prevent damage. This emphasizes the importance of actively monitoring the health of one's hair and scalp during the braiding period.
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Final Reminder:
- The concluding statement reinforces the idea that the effectiveness of a protective style, such as braids, is contingent on the individual's commitment to proper care. It serves as a reminder that achieving healthy hair while enjoying the benefits of braids requires proactive and attentive maintenance.
In summary, the article provides a comprehensive guide to installing, maintaining, and removing braids, taking into account various factors such as hair type, personal preferences, and the importance of continuous care. It combines practical advice with a nuanced understanding of the diverse needs of individuals seeking to incorporate braids into their natural hair care routine.
