ELIZABETH NGIGI Lifestyle, Entertainment Journalist

24 July 2022

Protective hairstyles are great and also demand less time in styling if you are a busy person.

So, you ask, what can I use to prep my hair for braiding?

Well, before even considering braiding your hair, one is advised to perform a strong protein treatment followed by a moisturizing one at least twice. Before beginning, you should make sure your scalp and hair are clean. In order to get rid of any extra product or residue, use a clarifying shampoo.

Most people prefer small box braids because the longest duration between visits to the salon among all braid sizes is three months for thin braids, which is a gift in and of itself.

6 Tips on Maintaining Box Braids

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize! While your natural hair is in braids, you'll still want to keep it moisturized and healthy.
Wash Day.
Avoid Over-styling.
Practice Proper Night Care.
Do a Braid Touch-Up.
Know when it's time to take them out.

So, what causes hair damage? Here are some of the major reasons why you hair is falling off.

1. Flat iron and blow-drying

Heat can make hair appear dull.

If you often blow dry or iron your hair, the transient alterations could eventually result in more severe harm.

2. Ponytails and braids

Ponytails and braids can break hair, especially if they are pulled too firmly.

Wet hair is more brittle, so pulling it up in a ponytail or braiding it might lead to damage more quickly

3. Excessive shampooing

Over-washing can dry out your hair by removing the natural moisture that keeps it looking healthy. Even though a lot of study has gone into making shampoos excellent for your hair, there is such a thing as too much good.

4. Weaves and extensions

Ponytails and braids are similar to extensions and weaves. They may leave hair brittle and damaged over time. The distinction is that the damage is at the roots, where it is more difficult to remove.

Even worse, wearing tight hairstyles like extensions for an extended amount of time can result in traction alopecia, a dangerous disorder that causes hair loss.

In order to avoid looking unnaturally short, either leave it free or attempt growing it out.