Hair & Braid Care

People tend to think that the moment they put braid extensions in their hair, it will automatically grow their hair and they don't have to do anything else.  The truth is,  this is the best time to take care of your hair naturally and still wear extensions. It's pointless to wear braids for 3 months only to realize that the situation and condition of your hair are more or less the same if not worst, especially if the motive for braiding is to improve the overall well-being of your hair and to take a break/rid yourself from all forms of hair chemicals and or heat.  I suggest the following steps to healthy braids wearing and to achieve happiness/satisfaction once the braids are out.

1: Chemicals -Avoid applying individual extensions/braids in your hair at least until after 2 weeks of any chemical input.  Sometimes braiders will tell you that relaxing your hair just before braiding will make your braids neater and more presentable.  The truth is the neatness of your braids depends on how good the braider is at parting the hair and more often than not, the length of your own hair. Very short hair tends to come out of braids while longer hair stays put.

2: Before braiding - Deep condition your hair a day before applying for the extensions. Continue to deep condition your hair even when you have the braids in at least once in 2 weeks. I suggest you use a conditioner that is rich in protein. Deep condition your hair for about 1 hour. Concentrate more on the root/scalp of the braids than the body itself.  Always remember that if the foundation is weak the building will collapse.

3: Cleansing/Shampooing - Wash your braids once in 2 weeks. This is very good for your hair as it allows your hair to rest from the chemical contents in shampoos even though some shampoo products say they have little chemical contents, my advice is,  it's better to be safe than sorry. Washing your braids every two weeks will allow the braids to retain its strength and reduce the early rough appearance.

4: Oil - Coconut oil helps softens yet strengthen and promote your undergrowth. It also promotes hair growth. Coconut oil is as strong and solid as coconut itself. The result is total SUCCESS. Always oil your scalp at least 3 times a week to retain moisture and prevent flaky scalps or dandruff.

NOTE THIS INFO WAS PROVIDED FROM A THIRD PARTY: Another great ingredient to have at hand during your braiding period is unrefined Shea Butter. This is the master of moisture and a healthy groom. There are many fake shea butter out there, please beware. Never use refined shea butter, it's been chemically processed. The Original Shea butter is cream in color and as often as many beauticians try to tell people that shea butter can come in many shades. It doesn't. The color is Cream. The smell cannot be explained, it's close to being odorless, yet it's not. It's not offensive that all Shea butter is an all-purpose moisturizer. Your skin will thank you and your hair will rejoice.