PREVENTING BREAKAGE AND MAINTAINING GROWTH WHILE IN BRAIDS.

Hi Guys!
I am almost constantly in braids and people always ask me how I prevent breakage. I started braiding my hair by myself with fake hair (kanekalon, synthetic mixes, etc) when I first moved to the States and realized popsi wasn't going to deal with the exorbitant prices involved. However, it was around 2010 that I started caring for my hair. After several experiments with several clients and myself, this is the routine I use to prevent breakage equaling consistent growth.

• Hair treatments and deep conditioning before braiding.
• Install braids on damp hair (no blow drying).
• Depending on hair length, adjust the heat of water used for dipping: After braiding with extensions, the extension is dipped in hot water to seal the ends and to make extensions look neater. If you have very long hair that will be dipped along with the extensions, do not use boiling water or avoid dipping your own hair if possible.
• Be careful with your edges: If your edges are hanging on for dear life, leave them ALONE and gel them down.
• Every week or as you feel your hair is dry, use a spritz bottle with oils and/or leave in conditioner to dampen your hair to retain moisture.
• Never ever manipulate your hair when it is dry EVER.
• Be careful with all the new fashionable ways people wear braids these days. Some will break your hair certainly (especially the ones that pull the edges too tightly).
• How much parted hair is your extension attached to? I know this is hard if you are not a hair dresser. Just make sure large and really long extensions are not attached to little parts of hair. Be mindful of this with Marley, Havana braids and most especially loc extensions.

I got my hair braided in Nigeria and was in love with my braids (I did not want to take them out). I got them done on Jan 12th and took them out on March 13th (My record time for leaving braids on in my LIFE!) I followed the steps aforementioned.

Naija Braids in its Prime

Prep for Braid Takedown

Length Check

Current Hair State

Braids are an awesome way to protect our own hair from the elements. When done right, it can grow hair quite efficiently. In contrast, when done in the wrong manner, it can accelerate hair loss. Communicate with your hairstylist to make sure they are not pulling on too tight and be careful with your edges.

Take care,

T.A.V.