Braids are a popular hairstyle choice that can offer various benefits, such as convenience, versatility, and protection for your hair. However, when not done properly or maintained correctly, braids can potentially cause hair breakage.
It’s essential to understand the factors that contribute to breakage and take necessary precautions to keep your hair healthy.
Let’s explore this topic further to understand the relationship between braids and hair breakage.
- Tension and Pulling: Braids that are too tight or put excessive tension on the hair can lead to breakage. When the hair is tightly pulled and braided, it can cause stress on the strands, leading to weakening and breakage over time. It’s crucial to ensure that your braids are not overly tight and allow for some flexibility.
- Improper Installation: The technique used to install braids plays a significant role in hair breakage. If the braids are too small or too heavy, they can put excessive stress on individual hair strands. Additionally, using improper tools, such as rough combs or brushes, during the braiding process can cause breakage.
- Excessive Manipulation: Constant pulling, tugging, or excessive manipulation of braided hair can lead to breakage. It’s important to be gentle when styling or maintaining your braids to avoid unnecessary tension and strain on the hair.
- Neglecting Hair Care: While braids can provide some protection for your hair, it doesn’t mean you can neglect regular hair care practices. Failing to moisturize your hair and scalp adequately while wearing braids can result in dryness, brittleness, and breakage. It’s essential to keep your hair and scalp moisturized by using lightweight oils or moisturizing sprays.
- Duration of Wear: Leaving braids in for an extended period, especially beyond the recommended time frame, can contribute to hair breakage. Your hair needs time to breathe, and leaving braids in for too long can lead to weakened and damaged hair. It’s advisable to follow the recommended duration for wearing braids and give your hair regular breaks in between.
Preventive Measures to Minimize Hair Breakage
- Choose a skilled and experienced hairstylist who understands proper braiding techniques and will not put excessive tension on your hair.
- Avoid styles that pull tightly on the hairline, such as high ponytails or buns, as they can cause breakage.
- Opt for larger braids that distribute the weight more evenly and reduce stress on individual hair strands.
- Be gentle when styling and detangling your braids to minimize unnecessary pulling and manipulation.
- Moisturize your hair and scalp regularly using lightweight oils or moisturizing sprays to prevent dryness and brittleness.
- Give your hair regular breaks between braiding styles to allow it to rest and rejuvenate.
- When removing braids, take your time and be gentle to avoid excessive hair breakage during the process.
By being mindful of these factors and adopting proper hair care practices, you can minimize the risk of hair breakage while wearing braids. Remember, everyone’s hair is unique, and it’s important to listen to your hair’s needs and adjust your braiding techniques accordingly.
Samantha is a hairstylist with over 12 years of color and stylist experience. She enjoys using her knowledge to create what her clients really want when they sit down in her chair. Her passion is creating unique looks that her clients feel great in.