Care tips for long-lasting braids

Braids are a protective style, but they need care to last long and look fresh. The most important things are keeping your scalp clean, moisturizing the lengths and protecting the braids from friction – especially at night. Here we go through how to care for box braids, cornrows and crochet braids, so both the braids and your own hair stay healthy all the way until it is time to take them out.

How often to wash braids
Cleanse your scalp about once a week. Washing more often wears on the braids and makes them look frizzy sooner. Do not wash the lengths the way you would normal hair – it is the scalp that needs cleansing. A diluted shampoo in a spray bottle makes it easy to reach between the braids.

Washing box braids and cornrows the right way
Spray the diluted shampoo between the braids and massage your scalp gently with your fingertips. Rinse well so no residue is left, since shampoo residue causes itching and flakes. Squeeze the water out with a microfiber towel instead of wringing the braids. Then let the braids dry completely – braids that are put up damp can start to smell. Cornrows are washed the same way but dry faster because they lie close to the head.

Moisture and oil
Braided hair dries out easily, both your own hair inside the braid and the scalp between the braids. Use a leave-in on the lengths and a light oil or moisturizing serum on the scalp a couple of times a week. Use a little at a time so it does not build up at the roots. Some itching is normal during the first days and when the scalp is dry – if it hurts or your scalp becomes irritated, feel free to get in touch with us.

Protect your braids at night
Friction against the pillowcase is the most common cause of frizz. Sleep in a satin bonnet or scarf, or on a silk pillowcase. Cotton draws out moisture and roughens the braids, while satin and silk let them glide. Gather the braids before you go to bed so they do not tangle overnight.

Workouts, swimming and everyday life
You can work out as usual with braids, but let your scalp dry properly afterward. After swimming in a pool or the sea, rinse the braids with clean water so chlorine and salt do not dry out the hair. Touch the braids as little as possible day to day – the less you pull and twist them, the longer they look fresh.

Caring for crochet braids
Crochet braids are ready-made strands attached to a braided base, and they are cared for much like other braids. Cleanse the scalp between the base braids with diluted shampoo, rinse thoroughly and let everything dry completely. The strands are synthetic fiber, so wash them in cold or lukewarm water and never style them above 120°C – higher heat permanently damages the fibers. Avoid brushing the strands unnecessarily; separate them gently with your fingers instead and use a light spray for shine and less frizz. Sleep in a satin bonnet or scarf and the locs will keep their shape longer.

How long do braids last?
How long braids last depends on the style. Box braids and crochet braids last up to 2–3 months, while cornrows last a few weeks. Take them out sooner if the roots start to mat, if there is a lot of new growth or if your scalp feels tight or irritated.

Taking braids out without damaging your hair
Take your time when you remove the braids. Loosen them from the ends upward, use conditioner at the roots to work out tangles and never pull on the hair. Wash and moisturize your hair thoroughly afterward so it can recover before your next style.

Braiding hair and crochet
If you want to braid at home or prepare your next style, you will find braiding hair and crochet hair in our online store, including X-Pression Ultra Braid and a range of crochet locs. See the full range in our Vegan Braiding Hair & Crochet collection.

New braids in Stockholm or Uppsala
When it is time for new braids, we do box braids, cornrows, crochet braids and men’s braids at our salons near Odenplan in Stockholm and in Uppsala. The same techniques are available at both salons, for adults, children and men. Book directly among our braids in Stockholm and Uppsala or call us on +46 76-415 90 00.