Braids are a timeless and versatile hairstyle, but did you know that improper braiding techniques can damage your hair? To keep your strands healthy and strong, it’s essential to avoid common hair braiding mistakes. Whether you’re a pro at protective styles or just starting to explore the world of braids, knowing what to avoid will help you choose the best braid for healthy hair. Let’s dive into the top hair braiding mistakes that could be harming your hair, and how to fix them.
1. Braiding Too Tight
One of the most common mistakes people make is braiding their hair too tightly. While a snug braid can look neat and polished, it can also put excessive tension on your scalp and hair follicles. Over time, this can lead to breakage, thinning, and even hair loss. To avoid this, make sure your braids are secure but not uncomfortably tight. Looser braids, such as knotless braids, are a great option for those looking to maintain healthy hair while still enjoying a stylish look.
2. Skipping Moisturization Before Braiding
Healthy braids start with healthy hair, and the key to that is moisture. Skipping the step of moisturizing your hair before braiding is a big mistake. Dry hair is more prone to breakage, especially when it’s under tension from braids. Before starting any braiding style, make sure to hydrate your hair with a good leave-in conditioner, oil, or hydrating cream. This will lock in moisture and provide a protective layer to reduce damage while your hair is in the braids.
3. Not Prepping Your Hair Properly
Prepping your hair before braiding is crucial. Neglecting to cleanse, condition, and detangle your hair properly can lead to tangling and breakage once the braids are removed. Always wash and deep-condition your hair before braiding. Additionally, detangle thoroughly with a wide-tooth comb to ensure smooth, snag-free braiding.
4. Keeping Braids in Too Long
Protective styles like braids are designed to protect your hair, but leaving them in for too long can do the opposite. If you keep your braids in for extended periods, your hair can start to mat and tangle, making it difficult to detangle without causing breakage. For the best braid for healthy hair, try not to leave your braids in for longer than 6-8 weeks. Regular maintenance, such as redoing edges or refreshing the braids, can also help preserve your style without compromising your hair’s health.
5. Neglecting Your Scalp
Healthy hair starts at the scalp, and many people forget to take care of it while wearing braids. Ignoring your scalp can lead to dryness, flakiness, and even infection. To avoid this, make sure to cleanse your scalp regularly with a light, hydrating shampoo or a spray designed for braided styles. You can also apply scalp oil or a moisturizing spray to keep your scalp hydrated and promote hair growth.
6. Using the Wrong Type of Hair Extensions
If you’re opting for braids that require extensions, it’s essential to choose the right kind of hair. Some synthetic hair extensions can be too rough on natural hair, causing friction and breakage. Opt for softer, high-quality extensions that are gentle on your hair and scalp. Human hair extensions or high-grade synthetic options are often the best braids for healthy hair.
7. Not Protecting Braids at Night
Another common mistake is failing to protect your braids while sleeping. Friction between your braids and your pillow can lead to frizz, dryness, and even breakage. Always cover your braids with a satin or silk scarf or sleep on a satin pillowcase to reduce friction and maintain moisture.
8. Using Too Much Product
It’s tempting to apply tons of products to your braids to keep them shiny and smooth, but too much product can cause buildup. Product buildup can clog your scalp’s pores and suffocate your hair, leading to dryness and scalp issues. Instead, use lightweight products sparingly, and cleanse your scalp regularly to avoid buildup.
Conclusion
Braids are one of the best protective styles, but they require care and attention to keep your hair healthy. By avoiding these common braiding mistakes, you can ensure that your hair stays strong and beautiful while enjoying your favorite braided styles. Whether you’re going for knotless braids, box braids, or cornrows, keeping your hair healthy should always be the top priority.
Ready to braid the healthy way? Explore more tips and book your next braid appointment with Zealous Braids to slay your look while maintaining the health of your hair!