Buzz
Box braids, cornrows, and other braided hairstyles offer a stunning and expressive look. While these styles are generally low-maintenance, they can still become twisted or tangled during sleep, leading to potential frizz and breakage. Dedicate a few minutes each night to caring for your braids to maintain a smooth and beautiful style.
Essential Tips
- Protect box braids and cornrows by wrapping them in a silk or satin scarf to prevent frizz and breakage.
- Opt for a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction and keep your braids secure while you sleep.
- Keep your scalp moisturized and itch-free with grapeseed, castor, or tea tree oil.
Step-by-Step Guide
Enhancing Braids Protection with Special Fabric
Wrap your braids with a silk or satin scarf to keep them secure overnight. Utilize a generous piece of fabric measuring 40 by 40 inches (1.0 by 1.0 meters) to fully envelop your braids, preventing unwanted friction and frizz during sleep. Simply fold a silk or satin head scarf into a triangle and drape it over your head, ensuring the larger point rests at the back of your hair. Ensure the scarf covers the edges of your braids. Cross each end of the scarf around your head to the opposite side, forming a criss-cross at the back. Then, bring the ends to the top of your head and tie a knot to secure the scarf.
Consider a specialized bandana wrap for thick, lengthy braids. Traditional silk scarf tying might cause discomfort and strain, particularly with 5 to 6 long, coiled braids. Instead, opt for a large, square silk scarf featuring 2 long ties. Place the silk square along your neck, covering your braids, then secure the ties atop your head. This method ensures the edges of your braids remain smooth and neat overnight.
- If unsure about the best approach, consult your hairstylist for advice.
Opt for a satin pillowcase to minimize frizz and hair breakage. Explore local home goods stores or online retailers for a satin pillowcase as an alternative to cotton. Braids rubbing against cotton pillowcases can result in frizziness by morning. Transitioning to satin helps maintain the freshness and beauty of your braids each day.
- Silk pillowcases offer similar anti-frizz benefits to satin, albeit often at a higher cost.
Selecting Hair Products for Optimal Care
Apply nourishing oils along your braided hairline before bedtime. Combine 2 to 3 drops of grapeseed oil, Jamaican black castor oil, and tea tree oil in a small container. Mix well and gently apply along your hairline and between your braids. Also, ensure to massage the oils onto your scalp beneath the braids. Incorporate this into your nightly routine for a nourished and protected scalp!
- Grapeseed oil helps retain moisture.
- Castor oil strengthens hair and fights dryness.
- Tea tree oil nourishes roots and clears hair follicles.
- If unsure about products, consult your hairstylist for recommendations based on your hair type.
Massage a cleanser onto your scalp for at least 5 minutes before bedtime. Apply a small amount of scalp or shampoo cleanser onto a cotton ball, then gently blot onto your scalp. Leave it for 5 to 10 minutes before wiping it off with a clean, damp cotton ball. Repeat every 3 days to maintain strong and healthy braids.
- If uncertain about the appropriate product, consult your hairstylist for the best shampoo for your hair type.
Apply anti-itch oil to your scalp every 2 days. Dampen a clean cotton ball with anti-itch scalp oil and dab it onto any exposed or irritated areas of your scalp. Repeat every 2 days to maintain a soft and soothed scalp before bedtime.
- This also helps prevent scratching or picking at your braids, which can cause damage.
- Avoid saturating your braids with oil; aim to coat the scalp without soaking the braids.
Spritz your braids with a soothing, anti-itch conditioner. This product helps reduce the urge to scratch or disturb your braids while minimizing frizz. For added protection, apply this spray to your scalp as well. Use as needed whenever your braids feel dry.
Guidelines
Your hair requires personalized care. Determine the frequency of conditioning and using nourishing products based on your hair's unique needs.
When getting braids, prioritize gentleness around your hairline.
Use special fabric to safeguard your braids.
- Essential items include a head scarf or bonnet and a satin pillowcase.
Select hair products that benefit your hair.
- Essential items include grapeseed oil, Jamaican black castor oil, tea tree oil, a small cup, scalp or shampoo cleanser, anti-itch scalp oil, clean cotton balls, and anti-itch conditioning spray.
