Washing your braids 101…

Braids are the perfect #summer hairstyle and proper maintenance is key. Cleansing your hair and scalp while wearing protective styles is the first step. Here are our tips for properly maintaining clean braids. ⭐️

Why it's important

Cleansing the hair and scalp while wearing braids is crucial because dirt and product buildup can accumulate, proper cleansing promotes healthy hair growth, and cleansing the hair allows moisturizing products to penetrate the hair shaft effectively.

How often should you wash your braids?

We recommend washing once every two weeks to keep your scalp healthy. Focus the cleanser on the scalp rather than the braids themselves.

How to wash your braids

Start with a shampoo with scalp soothing ingredients, applying it directly to the scalp and gently working it through. Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo ($12.99) is an excellent option because it contains Jamaican black castor oil and rosemary oil which increases blood flow to the scalp, supplying valuable nutrients to hair follicles.
Once you've cleansed your scalp, focus on applying conditioner down the length of your braids. Dilute your conditioner with water to help it rinse out easily and avoid product buildup. Consider using moisturizing, lightweight formulas like The Mane Choice Tropical Moringa Sweet Oil + Honey Moisture Conditioner ($13.99) or Shea Moisture Manuka Honey + Mafura Oil Intensive Conditioner ($10.99).
After rinsing out your conditioner, apply a targeted scalp treatment to soothe your scalp and prevent irritation like CURLS Poppin Pineapple SO SO Fresh Vitamin C Mint Scalp Treatment ($9.99). To wrap up your wash, mist your braids with a leave-in conditioner spray like Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Growth Mist ($10.99). Use a lightweight oil on your ends for added moisture and shine like CURLS Cashmere + Caviar Hair Serum ($15).

How to dry your braids

Gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel (or cotton t-shirt). Afterwards, let your braids air dry completely before styling.