How to Wash Braids: 11 Steps (with Pictures) - wikiHow (2024)

FAQs

What is the best way to wash braids? ›

Don't rub or shift your braids. Instead, gently press down on your braids, pushing the conditioner into them. Then, cover your braids with a shower cap. Let the conditioner sit for about 15 minutes before removing the shower cap and rinsing thoroughly.

Wrap your braids up every night.

Dudley suggests wearing a silk scarf or bonnet to keep frizz at bay. She also suggests using a silk pillowcase if wrapping your head at night is uncomfortable. Use a light oil. "This can be applied a few times per week for the duration of the style.

As with any wash day routine, conditioning is paramount. Not only does it keep your scalp nice and hydrated, but it also leaves your braids smelling good. Just as you applied your shampoo, you want to massage the conditioner directly onto the braids, from top to bottom and rinse to finish. Step 5: Wrap your hair.

How Often Should You Wash Your Braids? You can keep your braids installed for four to six weeks, depending on the style. Still, Sims says he wouldn't recommend going for four weeks without washing your scalp or hair. "I'd recommend washing once every two weeks or so to keep your scalp healthy," he explains.

RUWA® is a Kanekalon® fiber braiding hair that has been coated with Aquatex® for a sleek smooth and water resistant finish. The hydro-phobic properties cut drying time in half. This means you can swim and wash your hair with the “heavy-neck” feeling assoicated with tradtional braiding hair.

Maintain a cleansing and conditioning regimen

Brown recommends shampooing your braids every two to three weeks, “use clarifying shampoo focusing on the roots to remove the dirt build-up from your scalp.” Just like our bodies need regular cleaning, it is the same for our scalp.

According to Branda, sleeping with wet braided hair is an absolute “no.” “You're giving bacteria a place to grow hiding in the weave of the wet braid,” she explains. Plus, she points out that wet hair is more elastic when wet than when it's dry, so all the pulling while braiding can result in breakage.

So, how long can you enjoy the majesty of your box braids? With proper care, box braids typically last between 6 to 8 weeks. Yes, you read that right – almost two months of waking up to effortless style and grace!

It is recommended to use oils to soften and hydrate the scalp. Oils offer a gentle way to remove buildup and excessive flakes without causing irritation to sensitive skin. For those with scalp issues, regular use of a tail comb to remove weight is crucial.

Can I put mousse on my braids every day? ›

Hair mousse is versatile and works wonders on box braids, cornrows, crochet braids – you name it! Q: How often should I apply mousse to my braids? A: A couple of times a week should do the trick or whenever your braids need a touch-up of hold and shine.

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.

#Myth : Dirty Hair for Better Braids Contrary to popular belief, clean hair is more manageable for braiding. Dirty hair with excess oils can be slippery, making it challenging to create tight and neat braids. Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair for optimal results.

A warm shower isn't just good for the body—it can also help loosen tight braids. "If the braids are too tight, one can try to run their hair under cool or warm water in the shower," says Bailey. To loosen the braids, you may need to rub your scalp (gently).