leave in conditioner for braids

12 BEST PRODUCTS FOR BRAIDS

Braids are basically the ideal protective hairdo to use on a daily basis. Because they are constantly in style, simple to maintain, and they provide you with a nice respite from everyday hair styling, they minimize the risk of damage. If you’re new to braiding, it’s important to know that there are a few essential hair products and techniques that will maintain the health of your scalp and keep your braids looking great until it’s time to take off your preferred style. These 12 best products for braids can help you maintain the best-looking braids possible all the time.

BED HEAD BY TIGI HAIR WAX STICK

The TIGI Bed Head Wax Stick is the best for frizzy edges, curly hair, and braids. It is enhanced with beeswax and highly nourishing castor oil, which provide your hair definition and moisture retention. This stick repairs flyaways at the edges and securely secures the braids. The formula’s natural oils shield the braids from heat, perspiration, and humidity without causing cakey or sticky layers to build up on the scalp. With a no-mess application that works on all hair kinds and lengths, this semi-matte finish stick guarantees a touchable, silky texture that draws attention. Online reviews for the product have been overwhelmingly favorable, attesting to its effectiveness in keeping hair in place.

PANTENE GOLD SERIES TRIPLE CARE BRAID CREAM

Pantene’s Gold Series Triple Care Braid Cream is a moisture-locking, texture-enhancing braid styling product. Its pure argan oil infusion relieves the tension that braiding causes to build up on the scalp and hair. Provitamin B5 and vitamin E nourish the braids and shield them from drying out and breaking. In addition, this cream gives braids and locs a delicate sheen and manages frizz. While the recipe is thick enough to distribute easily over afro or textured hair, it doesn’t leave a greasy residue behind or accumulate in the cuticles. This is an unbiased assessment and the tester’s firsthand account of the use of the product.

CAROL’S DAUGHTER CURL DEFINING BUTTER

With hydrating and nourishing ingredients including agave, avocado oil, honey, shea butter, and other rich oils, the Carol’s Daughter Curl Defining Butter helps to keep your curls defined for a whole day. The recipe imparts a natural shine to your curly or kinky hair without leaving greasy residue and is free of silicone and parabens. This hair butter is perfect for neat braids since it smooths out knots and gives your hair a silky quality. It also has a clean scent that makes you feel happy all day long. If you are looking for a really good shea butter for hair, we highly recommend this.

BEARD GAINS LION LOCS ROSEWATER SPRAY

The Beard Gains Lion Locs Rosewater Spray is a great hair care product for braiding and healthy hair since it is lightweight, doesn’t flake or leave any residue behind, and doesn’t leave heavy oil stains. In addition to rosewater, this spray is enhanced with glycerin, aloe, vitamins, and essential oils to provide your with dreadlocks restorative treatment and prevent them from drying out. It enters the scalp and promotes the growth of healthy hair in dry and damaged hair. Hair types that are naturally straight or wavy can both benefit from this product. Made from natural components, this gently scented spray will keep your hair smelling good and looking healthy. However, the rose scent can be overpowering for some.

THE MANE CHOICE TROPICAL MORINGA PEARLY BRAID OUT GLAZE

Flyaways, twists, and braids are defined and supplely held in place by the Tropical Moringa Pearly Braid Out Glaze. It locks in all the excess moisture and gives the hair back its luster and smoothness. Botanical ingredients, moringa seed oil, and vitamins A, D, and E are added to this braid glaze, which thoroughly penetrates the hair shafts to replace and restore nutrient balance. Strength, elasticity, and shine are all increased, and style is made to last longer. This glaze offers comprehensive restorative treatment by swiftly penetrating into your scalp and hair strands and notably reducing breakage and shedding. It is among the greatest wash-and-go choices because it is simple to rinse off.

SULFUR8 LOC TWIST AND BRAID OIL

This unique mix of sunflower seed, olive, sweet almond, tea tree, and wheat germ oils is used to make this braid oil, which works like a magic bullet for hair that is braided. The braids, twists, and locs are nourished and moisturized by this rich and nutritious oil combination. It encourages healthy development and gives hair shafts their original gloss and smoothness again. The special combination of oils releases built-up tension and leaves the scalp and cuticles feeling cool and comforting. It spreads and seeps easily due to its weightless nature, leaving the scalp free of residue.

SHEAMOISTURE TRACK TENSION & ITCH RELIEF SERUM

What your braids need is Shea Moisture’s Jojoba Oil and Ucuuba Butter Track Tension and Itch Relief Serum. The jojoba seed, ucuuba nut, carrot seed, and peppermint oils in this shea butter-based serum rapidly ease scalp tension and irritation brought on by tightly braided styles and sewn-in weaves. In order to lessen breakage and hair loss, it deeply hydrates the hair shafts.  Regular use of the oil combination gives textured hair its original strength, gloss, and smoothness back. If you have been wondering “Is shea butter good for hair”, this product will give you the answer.

MURRAY SPRAY UNLOCK

Braids and weaves may be easily and safely removed using Murray’s Spray UnlockTM without causing any damage to the hair. It includes a unique combination of herbs and oils that are incorporated into a foundation of castor oil. As a result, this spray works wonders as a conditioning and preparation tool. Additionally, salicylic acid is included, which helps treat conditions including seborrheic dermatitis and dry scalp. By shielding and feeding individual hair strands, these substances stop breakage and hair loss. Both synthetic and natural hair can use this spray because of its chemical-free, weightless formula.

KUZA BEESWAX HAIR & BRAID CONDITIONER

Under braids or weaves, Kuza’s conditioner provides an amazing grip and deeply hydrates the hair and scalp. It is enhanced with paraffin and natural beeswax, which provide dry, stressed-out textured hair with  the necessary fats and emollients. This conditioner relieves the stress caused by braiding in the scalp and returns the proper balance of moisture. Additionally, it may be used as a pomade to kinky and coily hair to seal twists, locs, braids, and other styles. No doubt, this is one of the best deep conditioners for curly hair and braids.

ESHA SLICK N SLAY BRAIDING GEL

The Esha Slick N Slay Braiding Gel is an essential item for any hairstyle need including intense grip. It helps your hair stay in place all day by providing just the proper amount of control and nutrition without the frizz. The lotion is safe to use on braids and the scalp because of its non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and nutritious components. Its formula is flake-free, light, and leaves no residue behind. All hair types may use this simple-to-use gel, which encourages healthy hair development.

BEACHWAVER CO. BRAID BALM PRE-BRAID GEL

An inventive solution called Beachwaver Co. Braid Balm Pre-Braid Prep can help you create gorgeous braided hairstyles. The foam ensures that your braids look perfect and last all day thanks to its easy application and sturdy grip design. Its ionic + alpha bond multiplier formulation fortifies and nourishes the internal structure of hair up to three times, all the while giving each strand more shine. This mess-free application product offers many style options.

THE MORE CRAZY BRAIDING GEL

With The MORE Crazy Braiding Gel, you may style your hair as you choose. Without having to worry about drying alcohol, flakiness, or waxy residue, get an extra-extreme grip. Rich ingredients like argan oil and black castor oil are included in the product’s formulation to feed the scalp, encourage hair development, and give perfect hold. Because this clear gel doesn’t change the color of your hair, you may easily obtain the look you want. However, it might be challenging to wash off.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Prepare to be enthralled as we unveil a collection that combines luxury, innovation, and enticing flair. These top braid-enhancing hair products aren’t your average haircare picks; rather, they’re revolutionary items designed specifically to draw attention to your braids. These necessities provide nourishment and additional shine while preventing frizziness and flyaways, which may cause braids to become uncomfortable and frizzy after a few days.

How to Do Box Braids: A Beginner’s Tutorial

Box braids are a popular and stylish protective hairstyle that has been around for decades. They are versatile, low-maintenance, and can last for weeks with proper care. If you’re looking to try out box braids for the first time or simply want to improve your technique, this article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to do box braids.

Choosing the Right Hair Extensions

The first step in creating box braids is selecting the right type of hair extensions. You can choose between synthetic or human hair extensions, depending on your budget and preference. Here are some factors to consider when choosing:

  • Texture: Look for hair extensions that match your hair’s texture as closely as possible.
  • Length: Choose extensions that are at least three inches longer than your natural hair to allow for braiding.
  • Color: Pick a color that complements your skin tone and personal style.

You should buy 6-8 packs of synthetic hair if you’re aiming for long, thick braids. For shorter and thinner box braids, you might require fewer packs. Seek out smooth and soft synthetic hair, which is less prone to frizz, either at your local beauty supply store or through online retailers. The commonly used synthetic hair types for box braids are the soft-pressed Kanekalon Expression hair and pre-stretched Kanekalon hair. Alternatively, you can opt for human hair extensions or yarn hair. When uncertain about the quantity, it’s wise to purchase more hair than you think you’ll need. Any leftover hair can be saved for future styles or returned if the retailer permits.

Preparing Your Natural Hair

  • Wash and Condition: Start by washing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and a nourishing conditioner. Ensure that you rinse thoroughly to remove any product residue. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to hydrate and strengthen your hair. Leave the conditioner on for the recommended time to allow your hair to absorb all the moisture and nutrients it needs.
  • Detangle: Gently detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush. Start from the tips and work your way up to the roots to minimize breakage and pain. If your hair tends to tangle easily, feel free to use a rat-tail comb for those stubborn knots.
  • Stretch: If you have very curly or coily hair, you may choose to stretch it before braiding to make the process more manageable. You can do this by blow-drying your hair on a low-heat setting or using stretching techniques like banding or braiding.

How to Do Box Braids on yourself

Now that you have your hair extensions and natural hair prepped, it’s time to start braiding. Follow these steps:

Materials You’ll Need

  • Wide-tooth comb
  • Rat-tail comb (optional)
  • Hair clips or hair ties
  • Hair extensions (kanekalon or synthetic braiding hair)
  • Hair mousse or styling gel
  • Hair oil or moisturizer (optional)
  • Scissors (for trimming)

Step 1: Section Your Hair

Begin by using a wide-tooth comb to create four distinct box-shaped sections in your hair. Start by parting your hair down the middle, from your forehead to the nape of your neck, and then create another part from ear to ear. Leave the first section you plan to braid undone. Ensure that these sections are evenly partitioned, resulting in a neatly defined box shape with a straight line at the roots. Employ three large hair clips to secure the other three sections, keeping them conveniently out of your way. This initial division into four sections helps streamline the braiding process and prevents unworked hair from getting in your way as you braid. It might be helpful to use a mirror to ensure precision while creating these sections.

Step 2: Prepare the Braiding Hair

Take a portion of your sectioned hair, roughly measuring 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5.1 cm), and divide it further into thirds. Next, select a section of synthetic hair that’s slightly thicker than your natural hair section. Within the synthetic hair section, remove approximately one-third of it, leaving you with two strands—one thicker and one thinner. Alternatively, you can split the entire synthetic extension into three equally sized strands and then combine two of them to create the thicker and thinner sections.

Cross the 2 sections of hair at their centers, and fold the thinner strand backward upon itself. This action results in three hair strands of approximately equal thicknesses since the thin strand has been folded to create a single, thicker strand. To maintain a secure grip on the extension, use your thumb and forefinger to hold it firmly at the base of the loop.

Step 3: Start Braiding

Place the synthetic hair atop your natural hair, right at the roots. While keeping the three distinct synthetic hair strands, select one strand to act as your central or anchor strand, which you’ll merge with your natural hair. Align the loop of your partitioned hair directly over your natural hair’s roots, gently pinching your anchor strand together with your natural hair.

Step 4: Add More Braiding Hair

With the anchor strand of synthetic hair and your natural hair strand held together, initiate the braiding process with the synthetic hair. Guide the right-hand strand beneath the anchor strand, shifting the right-hand strand to the middle position. Subsequently, pull the left-hand strand under the center strand (which was previously the right-hand strand), positioning it now in the center. To keep things looking seamless, make sure to blend the braiding hair with your natural locks.

Step 5: Braid to the End

Continue braiding until you’ve reached your desired braid length. You can choose to leave a small portion of your natural hair unbraided at the ends for a more natural look or braid all the way to the ends.

Step 6: Secure the End

Continue this sequence throughout the entire length of your hair, and once you’ve reached the end, secure it in place using a hair elastic. If the braid holds its shape without an elastic, you can skip this step. Maintain consistent tension to achieve a tight, orderly braid, making sure it’s secure but not uncomfortably tight. Applying even, gentle pressure as you braid ensures a uniform and smooth appearance for your braid.

Step 7: Repeat

Braid your hair section by section, allowing yourself breaks whenever necessary. Begin with one section and progress from the lower part of your scalp towards the crown for easier management. As doing an entire head of box braids can be a time-consuming task, taking breaks between sections or when needed is essential. Ensure you braid each section swiftly and consistently to prevent frizziness. Maintain uniform pressure throughout the braiding process to achieve braids of the same thickness and shape.

Step 8: Trim and Style (Optional)

If desired, you can trim any uneven ends and style your box braids. Common styles include leaving them loose, pulling them into a ponytail, or creating updos and buns

Care and Maintenance

Once you’ve completed your box braids, it’s essential to take care of them properly to ensure they last for as long as possible. Here are some tips:

  • Keep Your Scalp Clean: Use a diluted sulfate-free shampoo to clean your scalp. Dilute the shampoo with water to prevent residue buildup between braids. Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips and rinse thoroughly. Focus on cleansing your scalp every 2-4 weeks or as needed.
  • Moisturize Your Braids: Use a water-based moisturizer or leave-in conditioner to hydrate your braids and natural hair. Apply it directly to your scalp and braids, concentrating on the ends. Be cautious not to oversaturate, as excessive moisture can lead to frizz.
  • Protect Your Braids at Night: Invest in a satin or silk bonnet or scarf to protect your braids while you sleep. Cotton pillowcases can create friction, which may cause frizz and damage.
  • Avoid Overstyling: Constantly pulling your braids into different styles or over-manipulating them can weaken your natural hair and cause breakage. Stick to simple styles to minimize stress on your hair.

FAQs

  1. What type of hair extensions are best for box braids? Human hair extensions are best for a natural look and feel, but they can be expensive. Synthetic hair extensions are more affordable and come in a wide range of colors and textures.
  2. How often should I wash my box braids? You should wash your box braids every two weeks to keep them clean and fresh.
  3. Can I swim with box braids? Yes, you can swim with box braids, but it’s essential to wear a swim cap and rinse your hair thoroughly afterward.
  4. How long do box braids last? Box braids can last four to eight weeks, depending on how well you care for them.
  5. Can I do box braids on short hair? Yes, you can do box braids on short hair, but the length of the extensions you choose will depend on how short your natural hair is.

Final Takeaway

Box braids are a beautiful and protective hairstyle that can be done at home with the right tools and techniques. By following this guide, you can create perfect box braids that will last for weeks and keep your hair healthy and protected. Remember to take care of your braids by moisturizing, cleansing, and protecting them from tight hairstyles. Happy braiding!