Braids and feed-in cornrows are popular hairstyles that are loved because they can be styled in several ways and they keep the hair healthy and protected. But, one common concern among those who wear these styles is the potential damage to their edges.
Don't worry, though! This guide will show you how to rock those amazing braids and cornrows without sacrificing your healthy edges.
5 Tips for Maintaining Your Edges
Before we jump into rocking those braids, let's understand why keeping your edges healthy is important. Your hair, especially the hair around the hair around your hairline, called your edges, is super delicate. Tight braids, styling tools, and even just not taking care of your hair the right way can make your edges thin and break.
1. Preparing Your Hair and Scalp
Healthy styling starts with a clean scalp and hair. Shampoo your hair thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup that can clog your hair follicles and hinder growth. After cleansing, follow up with a deep conditioner to make your hair soft and easier to manage. This reduces breakage when you style your edges later.
Your edges need extra moisture to stay healthy and prevent breakage. After washing and conditioning, apply a moisturizer like a leave in conditioner, and hair cream to your edges. This will keep them hydrated and supple for styling.
Before styling, take a moment to examine your edges. Are they dry, brittle, or showing signs of damage? If so, address these concerns with targeted treatments. You can use edge control products specifically formulated to hold your edges in place while providing some nourishment. You can also use hair growth oils to promote healthy growth and add shine.
2. Choosing the Right Braiding Technique
There are some braiding techniques that should be extinct, like Ghana weaving and what we call the traditional box braids.
For Ghana weaving, normally they start by braiding the extension hair right at the beginning. This can pull on your edges. A nicer way to do it is with feed-in cornrows. They braid your natural hair for a bit first, then slowly add in the extensions as you go. This way, the braiding isn't so tight on your edges.
Traditional box braids can feel heavy because all the braiding hair is attached right at the root. This heaviness can cause breakage and edges loss. A better way is the knotless method. This braids your own hair close to your scalp first, then adds in the extension. Because the weight is spread out along the braid, it doesn't pull as much on your scalp or edges, which is better for your hair.
3. Mind the Salon You Patronize
A good braider will braid your hair without pulling on it. Super tight braids and cornrows put a lot of stress on your edges. When you notice your braider is applying too much tension on your hair, don’t be afraid to speak up or walk away if they seem unyielding.
Avoiding those extra-tight styles can help keep your edges healthy. Also consider giving your edges a break. Try to take breaks between braiding sessions and wear your hair loose sometimes to allow your edges to recover.
4. Maintaining Your Braids and Cornrows
Wash your braids regularly with a lightweight sulfate free shampoo to remove dirt and sweat. This keeps your scalp healthy and prevents irritation, which can affect your edges. After washing, use a lightweight hydrating mist to keep them moisturized and a soothing hair growth oil to lock in moisture and keep them protected.
While you sleep, your braids can rub against your pillow, causing friction and frizz. To prevent this, wrap your braids in a silk scarf or bonnet at night. This keeps your style looking fresh and protects your edges from breakage.
5. Removing Braids and Cornrows Safely
Take your time and be careful when taking out your braids or cornrows. Rushing or yanking can pull on your edges and cause breakage.
Before taking out the braids, use a detangling spray or conditioner to loosen any knots or tangles. This will make the process smoother and less likely to pull on your edges.
After wearing braids for a while, your hair might be feeling dry. Give it some extra love with a deep conditioner. This will help restore moisture and make your hair more elastic, which means it's less likely to break.
Conclusion
Maintaining healthy edges while rocking braids and feed-in cornrows is achievable with the right techniques and care. By understanding the needs of your hair and scalp, choosing the appropriate styling methods, and prioritizing maintenance, you can enjoy the beauty of these hairstyles without compromising the health of your edges.
We appreciate your time taken to read this blog to the end. We hope you found it helpful.
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