Yes, you can get braids with relaxed hair, but there are important factors to consider to ensure the health and integrity of your hair. Braided hairstyles can be a great choice for individuals with relaxed hair who want to enjoy the versatility and protective benefits of braids.
However, there are certain considerations to keep in mind before getting braids with relaxed hair:
- Hair Health and Strength:
- The health and strength of your relaxed hair are crucial. Before getting braids, assess the condition of your hair. If your hair is damaged, weak, or showing signs of breakage, it’s advisable to focus on restoring its health before considering braided styles.
- Consult a Professional Stylist:
- It’s highly recommended to consult a professional stylist experienced in braiding and working with relaxed hair. A skilled stylist can assess your hair’s condition and recommend suitable braiding techniques and styles.
- Braid Size and Tension:
- Choose an appropriate braid size and tension that won’t put excessive stress on your relaxed hair. Overly tight braids can lead to breakage, hair loss, and even damage to the scalp.
- Preparation and Maintenance:
- Properly prepare your hair for braiding by moisturizing, conditioning, and trimming split ends. Additionally, ensure you maintain your braided style by keeping your scalp clean and moisturized.
- Avoid Chemical Treatments:
- Refrain from applying chemical treatments like relaxers or colorants shortly before or after getting braids. Chemical treatments can weaken the hair strands and make them more susceptible to damage during braiding.
- Professional Installation:
- Choose a professional stylist who is knowledgeable about relaxed hair and can create braids that complement your hair type and condition.
- Alternatives for Damaged Hair:
- If your hair is severely damaged, you might consider alternative protective styles that are less stressful on your hair, such as twists, bantu knots, or loose updos.
Remember that every individual’s hair is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Prioritize the health and well-being of your hair, and always consult with a professional stylist before making any decisions about getting braids with relaxed hair.
How To Prep Relaxed Hair For Braiding?
Preparing relaxed hair for braiding is a crucial step to ensure that your braided style not only looks fabulous but also maintains the health of your hair. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly prep your relaxed hair for braiding:
- Assess Hair Health:
- Before getting braids, assess the current health of your relaxed hair. Look for any signs of damage, thinning, or breakage.
- Moisturize and Hydrate:
- Begin a moisturizing routine leading up to braiding. Use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair moisturized and supple.
- Deep Conditioning Treatment:
- Treat your hair to a deep conditioning treatment a week or two before braiding. This helps improve the overall health and strength of your hair.
- Trim Split Ends:
- Schedule a trim to get rid of any split ends. Trimming helps prevent further splitting and ensures that your hair is in the best condition before braiding.
- Avoid Chemical Treatments:
- Refrain from applying any chemical treatments, relaxers, or colorants close to the braiding date. Chemical treatments can weaken hair strands and make them more susceptible to damage during braiding.
- Detangle Gently:
- Ensure your hair is tangle-free by gently detangling with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. This minimizes the risk of knots forming during braiding.
- Pre-Braiding Conditioning:
- Apply a leave-in conditioner or a lightweight hair oil to provide an additional layer of protection and moisture to your hair.
- Let Hair Rest:
- Give your hair a few days to rest between the last wash and the braiding appointment. This allows your scalp’s natural oils to distribute and creates a healthier environment for braiding.
- Scalp Health:
- Pay attention to your scalp’s health. If you have any scalp issues, consult a dermatologist or trichologist before braiding.
- Consult a Professional Stylist:
- Book a consultation with a professional stylist experienced in braiding relaxed hair. They can assess your hair’s condition and provide personalized recommendations.
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How To Braid With Relaxed Hair
Braiding relaxed hair requires careful attention to technique and the health of your hair. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to braid with relaxed hair:
Materials Needed:
- Rat-tail comb
- Hair clips
- Moisturizing leave-in conditioner or hair oil
- Hair ties or elastics (optional)
- Styling gel (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Preparation:
- Start with clean and moisturized hair. Use a moisturizing leave-in conditioner or hair oil to ensure your hair is hydrated and manageable.
- Detangle Hair:
- Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair. This will help create a smoother braiding process.
- Divide Sections:
- Use a rat-tail comb to divide your hair into sections. The size of the sections will depend on the braid style you’re aiming for.
- Secure Sections:
- Use hair clips to secure the sections you’re not working on. This prevents tangling and makes the braiding process easier.
- Start Braiding:
- Begin braiding one section by dividing it into three smaller strands. Hold one strand in each hand and cross the right strand over the middle strand, then cross the left strand over the new middle strand.
- Add Hair to Each Strand:
- As you continue braiding, gradually add a small amount of hair from the section to each strand before crossing them over each other. This is known as the “feeding” technique and helps create a neat and even braid.
- Maintain Tension:
- Keep a consistent tension on the strands as you braid to ensure the braid is neat and secure. However, avoid pulling too tightly to prevent stressing your relaxed hair.
- Continue Braiding:
- Repeat the crossing and feeding technique, gradually incorporating more hair as you move down the section.
- Secure the End:
- Once you’ve reached the desired length, secure the end of the braid with a hair tie or elastic, if needed.
- Repeat on Other Sections:
- Repeat the braiding process on the other sections of your hair, working methodically to create even and consistent braids.
- Optional Styling Gel:
- If desired, you can apply a small amount of styling gel to the edges of your hair before braiding to help control flyaways and create a sleek look.
- Post-Braiding Care:
- After braiding, apply a light hair oil or moisturizer to your scalp and braids to keep your hair hydrated and promote a healthy scalp.
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How Long Can I Keep Braids In My Relaxed Hair?
The duration you can keep braids in your relaxed hair depends on various factors, including the type of braids, your hair’s health, and your maintenance routine. Here’s a general guideline for how long you can keep braids in your relaxed hair:
- Temporary Braids (Cornrows, Box Braids, Twists):
- Temporary braids like cornrows, box braids, and twists can typically be kept in your hair for 2 to 6 weeks. However, it’s essential to pay attention to your hair’s health and the condition of your scalp during this time.
- Longer-Term Protective Styles (Crochet Braids, Senegalese Twists):
- Longer-term protective styles, such as crochet braids or Senegalese twists, can be kept in for 6 to 8 weeks or even longer. The key is to ensure that your hair remains healthy and undamaged.
- Braid Maintenance:
- During the time you have braids, it’s crucial to maintain your hair and scalp. This includes keeping your scalp clean, moisturized, and avoiding excessive tension on the braids.
- Scalp Health:
- Pay close attention to your scalp’s health. If you experience itching, discomfort, or any signs of irritation, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent potential damage.
- Avoid Overextension:
- Keeping braids in for too long can lead to tangling, matting, and even hair breakage. Avoid exceeding the recommended duration to maintain the health of your hair.
- Professional Advice:
- If you’re unsure about how long to keep your braids in, consult a professional stylist. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your hair’s condition and the specific style you’ve chosen.
Remember that while braided styles are protective and low-maintenance, they don’t eliminate the need for proper hair care.
Regularly moisturize your scalp and hair, and ensure that you’re not putting undue stress on your hair or scalp. When removing the braids, do so gently to prevent unnecessary hair breakage.
What Kind Of Braids Should I Avoid With Relaxed Hair?
When you have relaxed hair, it’s important to choose braided styles that are gentle and won’t cause excessive stress or damage to your hair.
Here are some types of braids that you may want to avoid or approach with caution when you have relaxed hair:
- Micro Braids:
- Micro braids involve very tiny sections of hair, which are braided tightly. The weight and tension of micro braids can put significant stress on relaxed hair and lead to breakage.
- Tight and Heavy Braids:
- Braids that are too tight or heavy can cause strain on your hair and scalp. Heavy braids can pull at the roots and weaken your hair, while tight braids can lead to discomfort and damage.
- Jumbo Braids:
- Jumbo braids are larger-sized braids that can exert a lot of weight on your hair. The weight of jumbo braids combined with the tension can lead to hair breakage, especially in relaxed hair.
- Feed-In Braids (With Excessive Tension):
- Feed-in braids involve adding hair as you braid, creating a natural and seamless look. However, if the added hair is pulled too tightly, it can strain your natural hair and scalp.
- Braids with Extensions:
- While braiding with extensions is common, it’s important to ensure that the added hair is not too heavy or tight. Improperly applied extensions can lead to hair loss and scalp issues.
- Braided Styles with Tight Updos:
- Braided updos that are pulled tightly can put stress on your hairline and scalp. Avoid styles that create excessive tension and pulling.
- Braids on Damaged Hair:
- If your hair is already damaged or weakened, it’s best to avoid any braided styles that may further compromise its health.
- Styles with Excessive Manipulation:
- Braided styles that require frequent redoing, unraveling, or manipulation can weaken your hair and lead to breakage.
Are Cornrows Good For Relaxed Hair?
Yes, cornrows can be a suitable option for relaxed hair if done correctly and with proper care. Cornrows are a popular braided style that involves weaving small sections of hair close to the scalp in a pattern. They can offer several benefits for individuals with relaxed hair:
- Low Maintenance:
- Cornrows are a low-maintenance style that can last for a few weeks, providing a break from daily hairstyling.
- Protective Styling:
- Cornrows protect the ends of your hair, preventing them from rubbing against clothing and minimizing damage.
- Scalp Protection:
- Cornrows offer a protective barrier for your scalp, reducing exposure to environmental factors and potential damage.
- Styling Versatility:
- Once your hair is cornrowed, you can create various updos, ponytails, or bun styles without the need for constant manipulation.
- Hair Growth Retention:
- Cornrows can help in retaining length by minimizing breakage and tangling, which can encourage healthier hair growth.
However, there are important considerations to keep in mind:
- Braid Size and Tension: Opt for medium-sized cornrows to avoid excessive tension on the scalp and hair. Avoid very tight or small cornrows, as they can stress your hair and lead to breakage.
- Professional Stylist: To ensure that the cornrows are done properly and with the right tension, it’s advisable to visit a professional stylist experienced in cornrowing relaxed hair.
- Maintenance: Even with cornrows, it’s essential to maintain a proper hair care routine. Moisturize your scalp and hair regularly to prevent dryness and ensure hair health.
- Duration: Avoid keeping cornrows in for too long, as extended wear can lead to tangling, matting, and even hair loss. A reasonable duration is around 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your hair’s condition and the size of the cornrows.
Overall, cornrows can be a beneficial protective style for relaxed hair if done correctly and with care. Prioritize your hair’s health and comfort, and if you’re unsure, consult a professional stylist who can guide you on the best approach for your specific hair type and needs.
How Long Do Knotless Braids Last On Relaxed Hair?
Knotless braids can be a great option for relaxed hair due to their reduced tension at the scalp and natural-looking finish. The duration that knotless braids last on relaxed hair can vary depending on factors such as your hair’s health, how well you maintain them, and the skill of the stylist who installs them.
Generally, knotless braids can last anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks on relaxed hair. However, with proper care and maintenance, you might be able to extend their lifespan for a couple of additional weeks. Here are some tips to help your knotless braids last longer on your relaxed hair:
- Scalp Care: Keep your scalp clean and well-moisturized to promote a healthy environment for your hair and prevent itchiness or irritation.
- Gentle Handling: Avoid excessive tugging or pulling on your braids, as this can lead to breakage and damage to your relaxed hair.
- Nighttime Protection: Wrap your braids with a silk or satin scarf or sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and protect your braids while sleeping.
- Moisturize: Apply a lightweight hair oil or leave-in conditioner to your scalp and braids to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
- Avoid Excessive Washing: While it’s important to keep your scalp clean, avoid overwashing your braids, as this can cause frizz and unraveling.
- Avoid Heavy Styling Products: Heavy styling products can cause buildup on your braids and weigh them down, so opt for lightweight products if needed.
- Professional Installation: Ensure that your knotless braids are installed by a skilled professional who understands how to achieve the right tension and technique for relaxed hair.
- Regular Check-ins: Periodically check the condition of your braids, especially at the roots. If you notice any signs of unraveling or damage, address them promptly.
As with any braided style, it’s important to strike a balance between enjoying the protective benefits of the style and not keeping them in for too long, which can lead to tangling and breakage. If you’re unsure about the best duration for your knotless braids, consult with your stylist for personalized guidance based on your hair’s condition and the specific braiding technique used.