Preparing your hair properly before installing small box braids is key to protecting your scalp, preventing breakage, and ensuring your braids last longer.
Begin by rinsing your hair thoroughly with a sulfate-free shampoo to remove buildup, followed by a deep conditioning remedy to restore moisture and strengthen your strands. Detangle your hair gently using a wide-tooth brush or your fingers while it's still damp to avoid unnecessary breakage.
Next, stretch your hair using heatless methods like braiding, banding, or blow-drying on low heat. This helps reduce tension during the braiding process and creates a smoother base for cleaner parts.
It’s also important to moisturize your scalp and hair using a leave-in conditioner or a light oil like jojoba or argan oil. If your ends are damaged or split, trim them beforehand.
Finally, make sure your scalp is healthy and free of irritation. If you're doing the braids yourself or going to a stylist, communicate about the desired size and tension—too tight can lead to breakage or traction alopecia.
Proper prep not only protects your natural hair but also ensures your small box braids look neat, last longer, and are more comfortable to wear.
Begin by rinsing your hair thoroughly with a sulfate-free shampoo to remove buildup, followed by a deep conditioning remedy to restore moisture and strengthen your strands. Detangle your hair gently using a wide-tooth brush or your fingers while it's still damp to avoid unnecessary breakage.
Next, stretch your hair using heatless methods like braiding, banding, or blow-drying on low heat. This helps reduce tension during the braiding process and creates a smoother base for cleaner parts.
It’s also important to moisturize your scalp and hair using a leave-in conditioner or a light oil like jojoba or argan oil. If your ends are damaged or split, trim them beforehand.
Finally, make sure your scalp is healthy and free of irritation. If you're doing the braids yourself or going to a stylist, communicate about the desired size and tension—too tight can lead to breakage or traction alopecia.
Proper prep not only protects your natural hair but also ensures your small box braids look neat, last longer, and are more comfortable to wear.