Tension on the scalp is never a good thing, and even though there’s evidence that proves this – many still suffer in silence.
Hairstylists tighten braids for various reasons - to help them last longer and to ensure they stay neat. This is all wrong – braids are not meant to last forever; how braids are installed is what determines how long they will last. Secondly, braided hair can still look neat without being tight. Products like foam wrap and gel can also be used to make the hair appear neat.
Some women prefer tight braids because the taut skin around the hairline gives them a temporary ‘face lift’. Traction alopecia, which is a condition of hair loss that is caused by constant pulling, is a common sight amongst people that repeatedly wear tight hairstyles. Besides braids, always pulling your hair into a bun also causes thinning and balding around the edges.
Since braids tuck away all your hair, there’s bound to be a change in how your scalp feels – especially if it’s sensitive. However, there’s a difference between slight discomfort and pain.
Never tolerate the below:
Do not try and cope with intolerable pain because this will be to the detriment of your scalp’s health, and ultimately, your hair growth. If the pain is unbearable, remove braids and soothe your scalp to recovery.
Related Article: Hair Colour Trends to Transform Your wig Collection
Slight tension can normally be relieved, here's what you can do to soothe freshly installed braids:
Alternatively, if you have a sensitive scalp and want to avoid discomfort try:
1. Knotless braids
The benefits of these braids have made them widely popular. They are light, gentle on the scalp and long-lasting. Although they may cost more than normal braids, they are worth every penny for healthy and happy hair.
2. Lace wig
Most people wear braided lace wigs instead of having their own hair braided. Although more expensive, you get to keep the wig for years and style it in many other ways.
Some women prefer tight braids because the taut skin around the hairline gives them a temporary ‘face lift’. Traction alopecia, which is a condition of hair loss that is caused by constant pulling, is a common sight amongst people that repeatedly wear tight hairstyles. Besides braids, always pulling your hair into a bun also causes thinning and balding around the edges.
Since braids tuck away all your hair, there’s bound to be a change in how your scalp feels – especially if it’s sensitive. However, there’s a difference between slight discomfort and pain.
Never tolerate the below:
- Unbearable pain that causes headaches
- Lifting of skin at the roots
- White bumps appearing at the roots, especially around the edges
- An inability to sleep or to move your head freely
Do not try and cope with intolerable pain because this will be to the detriment of your scalp’s health, and ultimately, your hair growth. If the pain is unbearable, remove braids and soothe your scalp to recovery.
Related Article: Hair Colour Trends to Transform Your wig Collection
Slight tension can normally be relieved, here's what you can do to soothe freshly installed braids:
- Apply a scalp soothing serum that is specially formulated to relieve discomfort and massage it in
- Apply leave-in conditioner
- Dab your scalp with a warm, damp cloth
- Apply a water-based moisturiser and massage your scalp
- Do not tie your hair up
- Wear a loose-fitting bonnet or scarf to bed
Alternatively, if you have a sensitive scalp and want to avoid discomfort try:
1. Knotless braids
The benefits of these braids have made them widely popular. They are light, gentle on the scalp and long-lasting. Although they may cost more than normal braids, they are worth every penny for healthy and happy hair.
2. Lace wig
Most people wear braided lace wigs instead of having their own hair braided. Although more expensive, you get to keep the wig for years and style it in many other ways.
3. Twists
Twists, especially with your natural hair, can be less tight than braids. The trick is to twist the hair from the bottom instead of braiding it.
4. Crochet braids
With this method, hair is plaited into cornrows first and braids are attached to these cornrows. It’s a quick and easy way to install braids, and there’s less tension than normal braids.
Related Article: 18 Celeb Short Hair Styles to Inspired You to Make the Chop
Extra Sources: healthline.com, allthingshair.com, essence.com
TIGHT BRAIDS: DO’S AND DON’TS, AND HOW TO GET RELIEF
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
February 16, 2022
Rating:
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
February 16, 2022
Rating:
