It’s only been a week since you got your child’s hair braided and already their braids are starting to look frizzy!
All that hard-earned money you spent at the salon just went down the drain! How in the world do you make their braids last longer?
Below, we will share five easy tips that are sure to keep your child’s braids looking neat and fresh! That way, you can focus on being the best parent you can be.
Scroll on down!
It All Starts With The Stylist.
If you are wanting your child’s braids to last then you need to find a reputable stylist.
The more secure and neat braids are upon installation, the more likely they are to last.
The braids need to be tight enough at the roots to prevent slippage.
Just make sure the braids aren’t too tight. We want to avoid scalp irritation or worse–hair breakage! *shudders*
Tip #1: Wrap It Up
Make sure to wrap their head in a satin bonnet each night before bed.
You can also buy them a satin pillowcase, if you prefer it.
Too much friction can lead to hair breakage and can also lessen the life span of your child’s protective style.
Sleeping on a regular cotton pillowcase is the worst thing for your child. Especially if they are a rough sleeper.
Satin is non-absorbent so it isn’t going to soak up all the natural oils and moisturizers that are in your child’s braids.
The satin material also prevents friction so when the sun rises, those braids will still look brand new!
Read this article to learn more about the benefits of using a satin bonnet.
Tip #2: Where is the Oil?
It is important to moisturize and then oil the scalp on a regular basis.
The oil is able to seal in any moisture and keep the scalp healthy.
It can also provide nutrients that can help to strengthen your baby’s hair.
There are many great oils you can use for your child’s hair. Castor oils in general are top contenders.
We recommend Jamaican Black Castor Oil. There are so many benefits to using this product and best of all, you can also use it for your skin or as a lip balm.
Read this article to learn more about Jamaican black castor oil.
Tip #3: Don’t Wash their Hair
Okay. Don’t freak out. We understand why this might cause some concern. But hear us out.
Braid styles typically last 2-3 weeks.
During this time, the protective style is helping to lock in the moisture in your child’s hair alongside the oil.
The style also prevents things like dirt and grime from getting into their hair.
Unnecessarily washing their hair is going to rinse out all the moisture and oils that are helping to keep the style intact in the first place.
And hopefully their hair was properly washed prior to getting their hair braided so there is no need to wash over your child’s braids.
Keeping up with their braid appointments and having their hair properly prepped will go a long way in determining the longevity of their style.
Tip #4: Avoid Heavy Products
Putting too much product or heavy product on your child’s braids can ultimately lead to product buildup.
This can cause the style to start looking dull and unkept over time.
Because of all the extra residue, it can be hard for serums and moisturizers to do their job.
This will only make it harder to maintain your kid’s style.
So try not to go overboard with the styling gel or mousse. Use in small amounts if you can and try to use it towards the last few weeks.
If there is buildup, use a clarifying shampoo and follow-up with moisturizer and some oil as a sealant.
Tip #5: No Pulling!
Avoid any extra tension.
Your child’s hair is already styled.
Over-manipulating the hair can potentially lead to scalp irritation or hair breakage.
Pulling their hair up into ponytails or tight updos may look cute but it can cause a lot of tension.
If your child ever goes to a hair braider that braids too tight, make sure to communicate this to them. If they aren’t willing to listen, then it’s time to find another stylist.
Taking these measures will ensure that your child’s braids are not only maintained but that their natural hair is protected as well.
Conclusion
Braids can be a great protective style for your child. But knowing what to do after you leave the salon is just as important as getting it done in the first place. If you are looking for a local kids braider in the Greensboro NC area, book an appointment with Bows and Braids Salon. Wash, bows and beads are included with every style! Book an appointment with Miss Kita today!.