Your Ultimate Hair Care Routine

While braids are a low-maintenance hairstyle, that doesn’t mean you can neglect your hair care routine. To keep your braids looking fresh and your natural hair in top condition, it’s essential to follow the right hair care practices. Here are some top tips for maintaining healthy braids and ensuring your style lasts longer.

1. Keep Your Scalp Clean and Moisturized
   The key to maintaining healthy braids is regular scalp care. Just because your hair is braided doesn’t mean your scalp isn’t exposed to oil buildup, sweat, and dirt. Use a scalp spray or dry shampoo to keep your scalp fresh without disturbing your braids. If your scalp is feeling dry, apply a light moisturizing oil or serum to keep it hydrated.

   
   

2. Protect Your Braids at Night
   To avoid frizz and breakage, always protect your braids while sleeping. Use a satin or silk scarf, bonnet, or pillowcase to reduce friction, which can cause your braids to loosen or your hair to break. The smooth surface of satin and silk helps maintain the integrity of your braids and prevents them from unraveling prematurely.

3. Avoid Over-Washing
   Although it's important to keep your scalp clean, washing your braids too frequently can lead to them unraveling or becoming frizzy. Aim to wash your braids every 1-2 weeks, depending on your scalp’s needs. If you feel your braids are getting a bit greasy, you can use a dry shampoo or a gentle scalp cleanser in between washes.

4. Keep Your Hair Hydrated
   While your braids protect your hair from external elements, your natural hair underneath still needs moisture. Apply leave-in conditioners or moisturizing sprays to your braids to keep your hair nourished. Look for products that hydrate without leaving your braids feeling heavy or greasy.

5. Don’t Keep Braids in Too Long
   While braids are long-lasting, leaving them in for too long can lead to build-up and strain on your hair. For the health of your scalp and hair, it’s recommended to remove your braids every 6-8 weeks, depending on how well they’re holding up. Giving your hair a break and allowing it to breathe is crucial for maintaining its health.

By following these simple steps, you’ll not only extend the life of your braids but also ensure that your natural hair remains healthy and strong. At BOW, we prioritize your hair's well-being while creating beautiful, long-lasting braided styles.