Braids are a popular hairstyle for their low-maintenance and versatility. However, a question that frequently comes up when considering braids is, “how long do they last?” In this article, we will explore the factors that determine how long braids last and what you can do to make them last longer.
Factors That Affect How Long Braids Last
Several factors can influence the duration that braids last. The following are the most important:
- Hair Type: The type of hair you have can affect how long your braids last. Natural hair is stronger and more resilient than chemically treated hair, which means braids made with natural hair tend to last longer. Additionally, braids made with synthetic hair tend to last longer than braids made with natural hair.
- Braid Size: The size of the braids can also affect how long they last. Smaller braids tend to create less tension on the hair and are less likely to unravel. Therefore, smaller braids can last longer than larger braids.
- Maintenance Level: The level of maintenance you give your braids can significantly impact how long they last. Taking care of your braids involves keeping your scalp clean and moisturized, sleeping with a satin bonnet or pillowcase, and avoiding activities that could cause your braids to become frizzy or unravel.
Duration of Braids
Braids can last anywhere from two weeks to eight weeks, or even longer, depending on the factors mentioned above. It’s essential to understand that how long your braids last will depend on your hair type, the size of the braids, and the level of maintenance you give your braids.
Tips to Make Your Braids Last Longer
If you want your braids to last longer, consider the following tips:
- Choose smaller braids
- Use synthetic hair
- Keep your scalp clean and moisturized
- Sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase
- Avoid activities that could cause your braids to become frizzy or unravel
Visit Our Salon for Professional Hair Braiding
If you’re looking to get braids, our salon is the place to go. Our professional hair braiders are experienced in creating different styles of braids and can advise you on how to maintain your braids for longer-lasting results. We use quality products and take our time to ensure that our clients are satisfied with their braids. Contact us today to book an appointment and transform your hair with braids.
FAQs
The longer your braids stay in, the harder it might be to maneuver around the build up. Some people end up having to cut their hair after leaving braids on for too long. So how long is safe? I'd recommend 6 to 8 weeks and if you want to go longer, you have to really take good care of it to avoid a lot of breakage.
What type of braids last the longest? ›
Box braids, characterized by their distinctive square-shaped sections, are known for their longevity. With proper care and maintenance, box braids can last anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks.
How often do you wash African braids? ›
Wash your braids every two to three weeks.
How long do synthetic braids last? ›
With synthetic hair, you don't have to worry about too much tangling, dryness, or color-fading. However, it doesn't last as long. If you're wearing it daily, for example, if it's sewn in, or if you have synthetic hair braids, then expect to get a solid three to six months out of it.
Do African braids damage your hair? ›
One of the biggest factors that can contribute to hair damage when braiding is improper braiding techniques. If the braids are too tight, for example, this can cause traction alopecia, which is a type of hair loss that results from pulling on the hair.
How often should braids be redone? ›
How long should you keep your braids on? According to hair care specialist Tatiana Dudley, braids with added extensions have a lifespan of four to six weeks, while those without tend to last approximately one to four weeks. "Anything beyond six weeks runs the risk of breakage," she says.
Can you get African braids wet? ›
When box braids come into contact with water, they absorb moisture and become pretty heavy, causing tension on the scalp and potential frizzing or loosening. To reduce these effects, lightly cover your braids with a water-resistant oil such as coconut or a specific braid spray before swimming, showering, or shampooing.
How often should I oil hair with braids? ›
Be sure to pick an oil that your scalp loves and moisturize along your part lines every day or at the very least, every other day. Also, remember to pick up a proper braid spray to make things easier and use the oil to seal in the moisture.
Can I wash my hair if it's braided? ›
Wash your braids every two weeks.
This will help you keep your hair clean without exposing it to too many hair products. If you have an oily scalp or are experiencing any product build-up, you may need to wash your braids more often than this.
Can you wash synthetic hair braids? ›
Add warm water (hot water can melt the hair so you don't want to use water that is too hot) with a cup of apple cider vinegar, then add the braiding hair to the water. “When adding the hair to the water, make sure you keep the rubber bands on the hair to ensure it does not get tangled during the bath,” says Styles.
Award-winning hairstylist, Jennifer Cherilus, explains that you need to take down your protective style (box braids) at eight weeks at most so you can properly cleanse your scalp and let it breathe.
Can knotless braids last 3 months? ›
For coarser textures with tighter curls, knotless braids have the potential to last longer, potentially staying intact for two to three months. For silkier and finer textures with looser curl patterns, however, they may not last as long.
How long can a braided hair design last? ›
As the old saying goes, “too much of a good thing can be bad.” Although braids are an incredibly stylish and protective hairstyle, leaving them in for too long can lead to hair breakage or even hair loss. Our salon's expert braiders suggest that the ideal time frame for keeping in your braids is between 6 to 8 weeks.
How long do tribal braids last? ›
Originating from West African cultures, tribal braids are a form of protective hairstyle deeply embedded in both African and African American traditions. These braids, typically crafted by integrating extensions into your natural hair, can maintain their allure for a span of four to six weeks.
