Braided hair extensions are versatile and come in many different colors, textures and lengths. You can use braided extensions to protect your own hair and encourage growth or as an alternative hairstyle. Braided extensions last an average of three months and are relatively low maintenance. As easy as they are to take care of, there are some things you can do to keep your hair looking good.
Washing
Wash your braids once every two weeks, using a mild, diluted shampoo. Use a shampoo without added conditioners, like baby shampoo, and mix one part water with one part shampoo. Thinning the shampoo makes it easier to rinse from your braids to prevent residue and build-up. If you have a scalp condition, you may need to wash your hair more often. Keep in mind that the more you wash your hair, the shorter the life of your braids. If you have a scalp condition, it’s better to take proper care of the condition and change your braids more frequently.
Conditioning
Condition your braids when you wash them and use a mild, diluted conditioner. Like the shampoo, dilute the conditioner with one part water and one part shampoo. Apply the conditioner to the portion of the braid that contains your natural hair. If your braids are human hair, condition to the ends. Rinse thoroughly to prevent any residue from collecting on the scalp or hair.
Deep Conditioning
Deep condition your braids, at least once a month, using a commercial conditioner, or make your own. Blend together two large egg yolks, 1/8 cup extra virgin olive oil, half an avocado and 2 tbsp. honey. Apply the conditioner to clean, damp hair, cover your hair with a plastic cap and wrap it in a towel. Let the conditioner sit for 30 minutes then rinse. If you are using a store-bought conditioner, follow the package instructions.
Drying
Dry you hair with a towel to soak up the bulk of the water, then wrap your hair in a T-shirt to soak up the rest of the water. Twist or wring the hair in the T-shirt to absorb as much water as possible. If you let your braids air dry, allow your hair to hang loose so that it will dry completely. Hair that doesn’t dry completely may develop mildew. You can also use a blow dryer, but be careful when using heat to dry synthetic hair.
Moisturizing
Moisturize your hair and at least twice a week. Massage your scalp, to express any natural oils, before applying your moisturizer. Work the natural oils to the ends of your hair. If you have synthetic braids, only moisturize the part of the braid that contains your hair. If you have natural extensions, work down to the ends. After massaging the natural oils in your scalp, apply your moisturizer. The amount of moisturizer you use depends on the condition of your hair. Dry hair usually needs more moisturizer. Use a natural oil like coconut, extra virgin olive oil or shea butter. You can use a commercial moisturizer, or sheen spray, from your local drugstore. Avoid mineral oil, as it can clog the pores.
Sleeping
When sleeping, contain your braids with a hairnet, then wrap your head with a satin scarf. This protects your braids from rubbing against your pillow or getting pulled.
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