Braids are a fun, expressive way to wear your hair, but they can be pretty low-maintenance. They're also a great option for people who have trouble with their natural hair, or who just want something different. But braids can be tricky! Even if you're careful about how you sleep, your braids could still twist and snag while you're asleep—and that can lead to frizz, breakage, and all kinds of other problems.
That's why it's so important to protect your braids at night, so you'll wake up looking fabulous! We've got the easiest ways to do that below!
Here are some tips for caring for your box braids or cornrows.
-Wrap them in a silk or satin scarf to prevent frizz and breakage.
-Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent friction and keep your braids secure all night.
-Use grapeseed, castor, or tea tree oil to moisturize your scalp and prevent itching.
Method 1: Protect Your Braids With Special Fabric
- To keep your braids from unraveling, wrap a silk or satin scarf around the braids. You can use a large piece of fabric—a folded scarf will work—to cover the edges of your braids and prevent frizziness overnight. Simply make a triangle out of a silk or satin head scarf that's large enough to completely cover your hair, then drape it over your head with the larger point against the back of your hair. Tie each end of the scarf back around your head to crisscross in the back. Bring each end up to the top of your head and tie a knot to secure the scarf in place.
- A “sock-style” scarf is a good alternative to the traditional style of wrapping your braids. If you choose this style, tie your braids up with an elastic before sliding the scarf into place.
- When you are tying your braids in a bun or knot before wrapping them with a scarf to help them stay in place, aim for a looser updo that doesn’t strain the edges of your braids.
- For short braids, try a silk bonnet. Just put the bonnet on your head like a hat and tuck your braids inside.
- A special bandana wrap works well for thick and long braids. If you have long, coiled braids, it may hurt and put a strain on your scalp to tie them up in a traditional silk scarf. Instead, use a large square silk scarf with 2 long ties. Place the large square of silk along the back of your neck on top of your braids then secure the 2 ties on top of your head.
- To find out the best way to cover your hair, ask your hairstylist for advice.
- A satin pillowcase will help you sleep more comfortably, reduce frizz and keep your hair from breaking. Want to keep your braids looking fresh and beautiful each morning? Visit your local home goods store or search online for a satin pillowcase. Your braids will look great!
- Silk pillowcases are almost as effective as satin at preventing frizz, but they’re usually more expensive.
Method 2; Choosing Beneficial Hair Products
- Before you go to bed, apply a few drops of nourishing oil to your braid line. To keep your scalp extra nourished, mix 2 to 3 drops of grapeseed oil, Jamaican black castor oil, and tea tree oil in a small cup. Rub a little along your hairline where your scalp is exposed and between your braids. Apply it to any visible sections of your scalp beneath your braids daily.
- Grapeseed oil helps to seal in moisture.
- Castor oil can help improve hair's strength and shine while helping prevent dryness.
- Tea tree oil can nourish roots and remove buildup in your hair.
- Ask your hairstylist for suggestions on the best product for your hair type.
- To help your hair grow, try putting a cleanser on your scalp for five minutes before you go to bed. You can use a cotton ball to apply a grape-sized amount of scalp or shampoo cleanser to your scalp. Let the cleanser sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then wipe it away with a clean cotton ball soaked in warm water. Do this every 3 days to keep your braids as strong and healthy as possible.
- If you aren't sure what product to use on your hair, ask your hairstylist for advice.
- Apply some anti-itch oil to your scalp every 2 days. Clean the surface of a cotton ball with anti-itch scalp oil and apply it to your scalp. This will help soothe your scalp and reduce itching before bed. Repeat every 2 days to keep your scalp feeling soft and soothed.
- 4.Spray a soothing, anti-itch conditioner on the surface of your braids. This product will help you keep from itching or picking at them to reduce frizz and possible damage. It'll also protect your scalp from dryness. To use, spritz on damp hair before braiding or even after if you want extra protection.