The reality is that your hair still requires a lot of care, even in a protective style. This means that you should still be regularly shampooing, conditioning, and deep conditioning your hair. You should also moisturize your hair regularly and massage your scalp to promote healthy hair growth.
Here are some tips on how to properly care for your scalp when your hair is in a braids or twists:
1. Prep Your Hair and Scalp Before Braiding
Before you get your protective style installed, it's important to prep your hair and scalp with a scalp detox. This will create a healthy foundation for the hairstyle and help prevent itching and irritation later.
Another way to prevent problems is to wash the synthetic hair before installation to remove allergens that may be present.
2. Maintain a Cleansing and Conditioning Regimen
Even if you're rocking a protective style, it's important to maintain a regular cleaning regimen. We recommend shampooing your braids every two to three weeks and using a clarifying shampoo on the roots to remove any dirt or build-up. Just like our bodies need regular cleaning, so does our scalp. If your scalp is particularly oily or has a lot of product build-up, you can wash it once a week. When shampooing your braids, be gentle on the scalp and try not to disrupt the braids. Wash from the scalp to the ends, using a vertical movement to prevent frizziness at the roots.
If your stylist used extra hair or material in your braids or other protective styles, it's important to use a deep conditioner after washing. The extra hair or material can soak up moisture from your real hair, so keeping your hair moisturized is key. You can also spray the style with a refresher spray to keep your hair hydrated.
3. Limit Protective Styling
It's important to take a break from wearing braids every few months to avoid the build-up of shed hair. When you take your braids out, you may be surprised at how much hair has come out. This extra hair can stress your strands, so it's best to avoid it by taking a break from braids every few months.
To avoid damaging your hair, you should detangle it in small sections after you remove your braids or twists. Wet your hair and add some conditioner to help detangle your hair. Be careful not to pull too hard on the tangles. You can also use a wide-toothed comb to help detangle your hair. Follow up with washing, conditioning, and moisturizing your hair.
4. Don't Scratch Your Scalp
If you're experiencing itchiness, you should avoid scratching your scalp with combs or fingernails. This can cause hair loss or inflammation of the scalp. Oils can help tend to the dryness or irritation you're experiencing, but it's suggested that you avoid applying heavy oils like castor oil directly to your scalp.
Conclusion
Proper scalp care is essential when wearing braids and twists. The scalp should be cleansed and moisturized regularly to prevent dryness, itchiness, and dandruff. Avoid tight hairstyles that can pull on the scalp and cause tension headaches when styling. Instead, opt for loose styles that protect your scalp and keep it healthy.
Envy Us Beauty Supply is a beauty supply based in Alexandria, VA, offering wigs, braiding and crochet hair, natural hair care, general hair care, nail care, cosmetics, and accessories. Our goal is to bring you the widest selection of beauty products to meet your everyday needs. We accomplish this by stocking the most relevant selection of products, including the latest trends and recent styles.