@@augustacookeygam5579 That's great! I was relaxed most of my life, but I guess my particular hair type liked natural better because my hair stayed thin and it was always dry and breaking off, but I think part of the reason is that is was over processed as my sister usually gave me my relaxers and covered my entire head with the creamy crack each time she did it. My hair never grew too much past my shoulders. I'm about due for a length check now to see how much it's has grown since my last check.
I noticed that is so true. “Protective styles” promotes neglect for me. 😔 I asked God to forgive me for not cherishing and taking care of my hair. The past few months I have been doing my hair myself and it’s THRIVING 🙌🏽
Love the way you put it 'Protective styles promotes neglect' Same for me too. I wore a wig once for 2 months and got so comfy I was sleeping in it. When I took the thing off my hair was dry and brittle like a dead plant 😢 Same with braids, I don't moisturise my hair as much. It's too easy to neglect cause the hair is styled.
@@keeshab1173 Oh no.... Nope I do not sleep in wigs. Never have done and never will. No matter how tired I am that thing has to come off or I will never sleep. Might be because I'm neurodivergent and the sensory feeling of a wig is too much when I'm trying to relax enough to go to sleep.
Facts! I had braids back to back last summer thinking I was protecting my hair when actually I was doing more damage. By summer's end, my hair was paper thin. 😞
@@beverleemahone5182, Yes I thought about that. The synthetic hair can cut through your natural hair. No thank you to braiding hair. Not to rock them . And these braiding only shops care less about healthy hair.
Yup… I went to a braid shop yesterday to get two loose stitch jumbo braids that come down on each side of my neck ( pig tails) that’s my protective style/signature style. They said to each other my hair oily…and it makes it hard for the gel to stay put. They only care how the hair looks not the health of the clients hair. I could care less…. I get my hair braided the same style every five weeks … but before I go there DAY 1 wash day… I use a clarifying shampoo .. rinse with warm water then I shampoo and condition and rinse with warm water. After I’m done I heat up Moreanga tea bag and use the warm tea to mix my Indian herbs in a bowel. (Hanna, Indigo, Fenugreek, hibiscus, Alma, Aloe Vera powder, etc) mix it till it’s the consistency of pudding. Then put it on my head …coating every piece of strand and cover it with two shower caps and leave it on over night. Day 2 of wash day: get up in the morning wash all the herbs out of my hair with warm water. Stay in the shower and add my deep conditioner and put on a shower cap. Get out the shower and sit under hood dryer for 45 minutes. Get back in shower and rinse out the deep conditioner . Stay in the shower with hair soaking wet put in my leave in while detangling the hair. Put on shower cap… then step Out shower. I dress as normal. Let hair air dry a little bit then add my cream and last my oil (Fenugreek oil and Alma oil . I do the LCO method. Then I let my hair completely air dry now that I’ve sealed the hair with moisture and hydration…. Then I go and get it braided…. Takes them 1 hour to braid it. It comes out very nice. When I tell you my hair is extremely soft and STRONG!!! Even when the African braid shops use those small tooth combs to comb my hair (I give them a big tooth comb they don’t wanna use it) but even when they use their small rat tail combs my hair is so soft it glides through the comb and when they comb my hair nothing gets into their comb no matter how rough they are with my hair. You Don’t see clumps and clumps of my hair on the floor or in their combs even when they rough with it. Braid shops you HAVE to prep your hair before going to braid your hair. To walk into a braid shop it’s like your hair is going to war. My hair was breaking off for two years due too stress but I’ve been doing this process for three months now and my new growth is crazy and the shedding is a very small amount. My hair has STOP breaking. Even when I take my braids out 5 weeks later it’s still moisturized. For those 5 weeks it’s in braids I only mist the braids with warm water and then add fenugreek oil to the scalp like once or twice a week.
Great points about wearing braids! I wore braids with extensions from May 2023 to October 2023 back to back. I noticed my hair was thinner after the braids were moved. I decided not to get any braids this year and just keep my hair in a bun. My hair is thicker.
I chopped all my hair off and I am determined to grow my hair back naturally without putting any extensions. I want to learn to love my hair through every season.
I pray this message finds you well. I did the same. I cut my locs off in January after having them for 5 years. I’m determined to wear my hair with no extensions (braids, sew-ins, wigs) . Peace and blessings on this journey
❤❤You can do it!! I did without wearing any extensions in my hair. I twist at night and wear it out during the day. We must love our hair. I am kinky kinky. Loving it!!
You can do it!!!! I'm on the same journey I cut my locs off almost a year ago and my hair is thriving. God convicted me about my locs and weave so no more locs or weave for me.
Finding out that the PET and PVC in synthetic hair can cause cancer and reproductive issues made me wanna stay away from extensions forever! It might be fun to have butt-length hair that you can whip around lookin' all cute and stuff, but who wants to risk getting endometriosis or ovarian cancer for some long fake hair?
I think your work life impacts your choices. For people who work 9 to 5 jobs, it’s easier to wear hair in a natural state. But if you’re on call 24/7 for 7 days, and you could easily be out of the house for 24-28 hrs, there’s far less time to manage your hair. I agree that your hair is often more dry with braids, but my hair retention is far greater with braids. Secondly, people need to ensure the hair stylist is not braiding too tightly. My hair flourishes in braids.
@@obsidyenneg4333 dry/dehydrated hair will always lead to very see-through/weathered ends overtime. I’ve seen many clients retain length from braids from previous stylists; unfortunately this length is always see-through, and eventually has to be cut. The cuticle weathering comes with excessive synthetic braid wearing.
@BritanyMichelle I must be doing something different than others. My hair strands are fine but my hair volume is very dense. I have not flat ironed my hair in 9 years. I don’t wear wigs. I trim my ends. I don’t have see through ends. I also eat well - protein, vegetables, fruits and very few snacks. I don’t drink alcohol and I’m not overweight. My iron levels are good and I take Vitamin D supplements. I rarely eat out. The health of our hair extends beyond mechanical manipulation.
@@obsidyenneg4333 yes, there are many other factors outside of what is done to and put on our hair, that will contribute to healthy + unhealthy hair. This of course will include taking care of the body internally (detailed in my ebook: The Ultimate Guidebook for Textured Hair). What you’re describing for yourself sounds great, if you do this! It may be worth considering that perhaps your strands aren’t fine. Medium/Coarse strands are far more resilient in terms of how quickly the cuticle layer can become weathered and show signs of visible damage. (This of course doesn’t negate the fact that synthetic hair weathers the hair cuticle in general, and causes damage overtime.) I’d be able to tell immediately in person. In my professional experience, most clients who say similar things to what you mentioned above regarding their lifestyle; and keep synthetic hair protective styles in primarily/back-to-back, are often shocked in the salon chair to find see-through ends in the mirror once the hair is stretched/blown dry. You mentioned knowing the hair is “often more dry” in braids. Yes, synthetic hair weathers the hair cuticle layer. Healthy hair with a gorgeously maintained, full/solid cuticle layer from root to tip is always the goal and is achieved often in the salon! Good care in-between salon visits/at home, help greatly! Thanks for sharing your experience!
My job might be 9-5 but I have training 3 of those 5 working days and I work out on weekends or work privately on a Saturday morning. I have a very active job, Braids are the most convenient for me but I make sure I moisturize twice a week.
I think its because some people wear the braids in first far too long. You have people wearing braids for three months or more worse when they are installed tightly. They also arent moisturizing or oiling their hair while the braids are in. Braids should be like a month or a month and a half not several months. Same for sew ins.
Exactly! Many people don't care for their braids properly. My hair is always super thick and strong when I remove my braids. I moisturize with a cream based oil moisturizer, Shea butter or other moisturizing product. My hair really thrives when I wear braids.
I started wearing my natural hair more during the summer but when it comes to vacation I need mini twists or braids. The last time I went to the Bahamas for 6 days and wore my natural hair out, my hair was a dry frizzy mess since I stayed outside and went swimming everyday. I also had to spend an hour washing and detangling my hair everyday. So yes for vacation it’s either mini twists or braids. Fortunately my sister in law does twists and braids so I don’t have to go to the salon. Also my hair is mid back length and I grew it this long with braids. I feel like people neglect their hair when they get braids which is why their hair breaks off. When I use to get braids often, I cleansed my scalp once a week and moisturized my scalp using water and oil. I also only kept my braids in for two months at most.
If you have really bad frizz, you might need a primer cut because your cuticles are damaged. Your cuticles are damaged and staying open, so your losing excessive moisture.
My clients who go back and forth to box braids have had major thinning since the “goddess braid” explosion. They let the convenience overrule logic lol
I put my hair in braids for three months, December 2023 to March 2024 , never again, my hair was so thin mid shaft down to my ends, I had to cut it off, I was so disappointed, after I cut it, I put it back in my regular mini twist from April, to July, my hair grew back thicker, I just took it down today, my hair is back to normal, am so happy now😂, everything you mentioned is on point, I knew better, I just wanted to use up some hair that I have, I should have just thrown it out
yes never 3 months lol I have been there. The chemicals in the hair braiding has serious health issues it thins the hair. I would like to tray crochet light minimal braiding under but never braids for 3months. It took a while to recover.
@@jackier301 aww man. What a journey, but you made it back lol! I’ve seen some major hair/scalp issues on first-time clients wanting to come off wearing braids. Crown balding, hairline loss, see-through ends… Glad you made it back to healthier hair!
@@bitokay147 saw that you mentioned crochet, and had to chime in. Crochet dries textured hair out terribly, overtime. I wouldn’t opt for it. If you want the look, try using virgin hair or a u-part. Natural Twists though, (tutorial in a previous video), are by far the healthiest/most effective protective style for length retention and moisture retention.
Alot of great info! I experienced thinning edges wearing braids and realized no point in damaging whats natural for fake..turns out my natural hair likes freedom😊
@beautyofgrace3915 use feathered / pre stretched braiding hair for a lighter feel I have the same issues head full of hair if I use regular braiding hair it's heavy make my neck hurt lol
I braid every 2 months and do not go beyond waist. I neglect my hair when it is out and my hair knots easily so braids are more convenient. Since I started braids 2021 my hair has thrived and stayed healthier. I moisturize twice per week. The first time I did braids years ago my hair was down to my waist when I took them out but it was all damaged. That was before I knew how to take care of my braids and my hair in braids
Facts Facts Facts They don’t protect nor grow anything! Straight up damage. Now that I know better, I’ve had to cut over 6 inches of my hair. My cuticles are just damaged!
Love this type of content! Thank you for saying this. I stopped getting box braids and extensions in February and surprise surprise, my edges started to return 😅
You are so right its a bit of laziness. We have to put the work in. Its burning here in nyc and I debated but decided no to braids. I got braids in college and lost alot of hair when in Brooklyn. They just pulled too tight. I grew a lot of more hair under a loose wig half wig in the pandemic just didn't touch it massaged and one year 4 inches longer. You
I’ve never been a big braids person or “vacation braids” I like styling my own hair frequently and also don’t like sitting for braids, taking them down…needless to say wearing my own hair this Summer. My daughter is into braids but I monitor the frequency (very infrequently) and not for too long. Also mindful the braider doesn’t braid too tight.
This is just continuing the narrative that natural hair is so fragile nothing can be done to it. This is simply not true. I have mid back 4B hair and I regularly get silk presses, braids, etc. Every style can be done in moderation and with care.
That's your hair. I am someone with FRAGILE HAIR and no amount of care and moderation is going to change that. I 'm aware that some people have resilient hair and scalp that they can do anything to but what I don't understand is why people with hair that can do anything are not aware of people whose hair is actually fragile. We both deserve space in the hair care and hair styling world. Hair care, hair products and hair styling are not one size fits all.
@scorpiothesaint My mom has thin eyebrows and overplucked them in the 60s and 70s.....in the 90s and 2000s that was the signal for my sister and I to never touch our eyebrows. Lol! I have thicker wilder brows and my sister has thinner ones but I'm over 40 and my sister is over 30 and we both still have eyebrows...if we want to change them we can use makeup that washes off and isn't permanent!!
Exactly. I wear braids and faux locs a lot and I've always had healthy hair. Maybe because I do it myself idk. I don't do them long all the way to my kneecaps lol and I don't make them tight. Plus I don't keep them in over a month. If I do, I wash them and redo the front.
Check to so if you have some deficiencies, your body may not be absorbing vitamin and minerals properly. If not it may be be hereditary, but most of the time people simply have bad habits they are unwilling to break. Hair is always growing , you’re not retaining length possibly bc it’s breaking off at the same rate of growth.
What’s why I went back to crochets! Braids used to work fine but these stylist want your hair dry asf to make their jobs “easier” but our hair pays the price.
@@nneenaa6343 funny because I used to do crochets In 2019 then stopped because it wasn’t popular anymore. Had tons of growth then switched to braids which thinned out my hair. I decided to do what worked in the past and went back to crochet.
You can. It’s called healthy thick long and gorgeous hair. ❤ learn to take care of your natural hair, you won’t even believe how beautifully your hair can flourish.
Lmao the sadness in this comment. Girl, we HAVE PLENTY! God has blessed us with natural hair, but we try to do everything to fit in and look “ExoTiC”, when in reality our natural hair is what makes us so unique. But we can’t enjoy our natural hair cuz we are beating it up with wigs, weaves, box braids and extensions. That’s what’s truly sad 😅
I get braids often and my stylist sometimes ask if I’ve had someone cut or do something to my hair because it’s in the same healthy condition I left her with. I honestly think it’s about how you take care of your hair
@@denisejeffrey5853before I go get my hair braided . Day 1 of wash day) I use clarifying shampoo rinse with warm water then shampoo and condition and rinse with warm water. I boil moringa tea then get a bowel and add my Indian herbs ( Henna, Indigo, Shikakai, Amal, Brahmi, aloe Vera Neem, Hibiscus, curry leaf, Kapoor, fenugreek) with the warm moringa tea water i add to the bowel of powders then make a paste. I add the herbs to my hair and put on a shower cap and sleep with it over night. Day 2 of wash day i wake up and rinse out the herbs with warm water in the shower…deep condition with heat for 45 minutes and rinse out the deep conditioner with warm water. I then do the LCO method. Leave in…then cream…then Oil…(I use Alma oil and fenugreek oil) then I go get the hair braided. BY that point the hair is so extremely soft and strong that even when the braid shop pulling at it with rat tail comb no hair breaks off . It glides through the comb. 🪮 even when they use a small tooth comb. I get simple two big braids pigtails done that are not tight. Takes the braid shop an hour to braid. My new growth has been insane. While the hair is in braids for the five weeks… I spray it with warm water like once or twice a week…then I add Fenugreek oil to the scalp. When I take out the braids the hair still moisturized. New growth is a lot then I repeat the process.
I can wear braided/twisted styles. However, they have to be done with extra care and I still need to shampoo and condition weekly and apply braid spray and scalp spray daily. One month is probably the maximum I can go now with my perimenopausal hair and scalp. When I was a teenager and in my 20s, my hair and scalp were more resilient, so I would wear the braids/kinky twists for 12 weeks and shampoo and condition once a month. I still needed daily braid spray though. I tend to wear braids/kinky twists in the autumn to get a rest from constantly having my hair out and weekly detangling but still being able to go swimming weekly.
I’ve committed to only getting braids once a year, in the summer. Just got back from Greece with them in but I refuse to keep them in for longer than 6 weeks and pray I don’t have damage 😅
Seems like most of the things that are labeled "protective styles" over time tend to be the most damaging. Even wearing hats or scarves all the time cause damage to hair as well. Hair is just meant to be out and free.
This is so true. I stop doing braids with extensions. Im currently with my almost 4 weeks mini braids on natural hair without extensions. I recently made a braided ponytail that i attach it to my hair to change my look depending on the event and immediately I come back home, i will remove it. My routine is, i moisturise once or twice a week, at 4 weeks, i will shampoo, deep conditioned , leave in conditioner and take down and renew each braids while maintaining it's original parting. At 2 months, i will follow thesam procedure but switch to mini twist and keep for 2 month. At the end of 4 months, i will take down the twist, wash and blow dry and check if there is split end or my hair needs trimming. This has help with my weekly moisture routine, my scalp is clean, not itchy . Im also 9 weeks postpartum and i plan to keep this routine through out till the end of this year. My hair feels very moisturized very nourished and is thicker than before 7:57
My routine is very similar! I keep my hair in mini braids (just my hair) and wash, condition, and style them as if they’re locs. Every two months I have them completely redone. In the beginning I had to trim often (every quarter) because I didn’t want to cut all that needed to be cut. But now that the damage is gone, I trim just 2x a year. On my way to TBL.
Heyyyy I believe also depends on how the braids are installed and maintained. I wash my extensions and moisturize them in conditioner before i install them. I also braid my own hair, I do not braid them tight at all. I also shampoo and moisturize my hair in braids. Even before I start to install the braids, i make sure to moisturize my hair. Also i do small to medium braids. It's really about way the braids are installed, the size of the braids, the maintenance, how long the are kept in andhow they are taken down. Most women are in a hurry to take them down and get right to washing their hair. They can be too rough sometimes. I only install extensions twice a year though. I still prefer doing mini twists on my natural hair.
I actually think that the way most salons/braiders do braids (requiring heat to blow out, not moisturizing prior, combs that break hair, not being gentle with hair, sometimes tight, heavy, too much gel), leads to breakage. If you do it at home yourself without these things can be be healthy, but as the poster said, you dont NEED it. My hair flourished most, when i was doing it myself and too lazy to braid. Once i eased up on my prior standards and went to salons, only a handful of times and let them braid my hair about 3 times, my hair started thinbing and breaking. Completely mishandled. Working to repair now.
Depending on how the braids are done, my hair thrives in braids. I retain so much length but it's too hard to find someone who can do my braids the way I'd like so I don't get them anymore. Most women with type 4 hair are too scared to wear their natural hair out so I feel like this message will only be heard by the few people who are wearing braids because they're truly convinced that it's helping them somehow.
Two of the reasons I stopped getting braids was the time it took for installation and take down. 😢 I started using my natural hair to do twists. I also paid attention to dryness in my scalp and hair. Sometimes I would moisturize my scalp and hair every two days. My hair is growing. I recently started using Twelve12 scalp spatula, hair mist and other products. I sometimes have an itchy scalp after wash day. I haven’t had that problem since then.
I stopped wearing synthetic braids a few years back, I was always putting my delicate edges at risk and finally decided to stop the madness. Best decision I ever made. I do still enjoy mini braids and twist with my natural hair ❤.
I paid an African Braider to install crochet twists that wanted to be twist outs. I had her remove it on day three. No refund but at least she didn’t charge to remove it. Two hours of work gone in ten minutes. She said that she didn’t know the hair would unravel.
I enjoyed your video! I've never tried braids for the summer. Instead I've worn a crochet style. But this summer, I'm wearing my hair natural, which I thought I couldn't do, and I love it!
maybe I'm mis-remembering, but I thought people put petroleum on their neck/ears before they get a relaxer as a barrier to keep those chemicals from burninating their skin. If petroleum is used as a barrier, then wouldn't it clog hair follicles and inhibit growth if it's applied to the scalp?
i stopped wearing braids a few months ago. I noticed, not matter how loosely and delicately I braided my edges they kept thinning. The rest of my hair was fine though but i was getting a small bald area right below each temple and i think i gave myself permanent thinning in my front middle center part area. it was the weight of the braids. No matter how loose you braid them they still carry weight on the follicles. Not only that....they are just darn uncomfortable!!! They are bulky, heavy, they feel terrible against the skin because they are basically plastic. Just a heavy, sweaty, cumbersome feeling. My edges are now filling in, i feel the breeze on my scalp, i don't have these heavy sweaty tbh yucky feeling things on my head and I dont think i would ever go back. I just wear my natural hair now which i was resistant to for so long but i LOVE feeling like my head can BREATHE
What about braids without extensions? This summer I wear my hair in 9 thick cornrows, and so far, my hair is fine. I take them out every week to 10 days, comb the hair out, and redo them. Sometimes, I make them into flat twists instead of braids. I can wash and condition my hair with the braids/twists in or take them out, wash and redo them. As my hair gets longer, I find it difficult to wear it out during the summer. It shrinks and gets matted and tangled. That doesn't happen during the cool/cold months.
Got my braids done 2 weeks ago took them down this week. They were way too tight! my scalp was itching and burning. I feel so bad for torturing my scalp. 😢
This is wild. I just had crochet boho braids in and took the out today because my scalp was so dry. It has never happened to me before and I moisturize my hair very well. I was missing my natural hair being out.
I spent 2 years without braids and it’s been all good, my hair has grown a lot and I love it! BUT I’m tired and need a break so I’m getting some soon 😩
no wigs, no relaxers, no perms and now you guys are trying to say braiding ur hair is bad? pls rest if you’re keeping your braids in for too long, not installing them correctly and not moisturizing them properly then obviously you will damage your hair in the process. pls use wisdom when installing your braids. they’re one of the easiest protective styles you can do and people STILL find a reason to complain sigh
She’s telling the truth. Her only mistake was not showing video evidence to make a stronger case! It’s not a joke. If black women care about having stunning hair, they must stay away from braids.
Thank u for sharing these great tips, but girl... where were u when I was wesaring my braids consecutively back-to-back! All the damage 💔 u describe is accurately what I experience. Luckily, I found an excellent stylist who isball about healthy hair who gave me the best bob haircut after the treamtents that she guarantees will knock my hair back into shape. Im learning to appreciate my natural curls and do my own twist-outs & wash & go's. Hard to believe that I wont wearing braids for a long time bc that was my go-to & scape goat. Im excited about my new hair journey & I hope to see more hair care videos from you. 😊
I’m actually rocking my natural hair are well as a straight hair natural, it’s been very hot and humid. Current hairstyle: high ponytail with curl wavy side bangs. Easy care and go for me that last through my whole day.
I spend the rest of the year bouncing back from summer Braids. I agree with this message! I’ve been very successful with mini twisting my own natural hair and doing small flex rods on my natural hair each style last week or two maybe three weeks and that’s been my protective style as of late because Braids tear my hair up! What are your thoughts on boho braids?
I wore goddess braids all summer '23 (and paid $$$$) expecting to see hella growth and instead they thinned my hair out so badly I had to chop off 4 inches! I love the look but not worth it for me especially with braiders in my area charging $5-600
Yes natural hair can be a pain but I love it I embrace that it cant be bone straight all the time trying simple buns keep it simple it feels good to have my natural hair out - oil massages every 2 -3 days has stopped me losing hair during hair washes I thought it was so weird. Literally a small little hair ball thats it. Love the video.
Thank You for such an informative vid. Been doing wash n go’s in the Anthony Dickey method all year and my hair is thriving, along with Ayurvedic challenges. I will likely put my hair in braids for a conference in August
@@ramahh979 glad to hear your hair is thriving! Clients in the salon who primarily wear Wash + Go’s, and do well maintaining it; do tend to have pretty hydrated hair overall! Hoping you continue your great routine, after your braids! 💛
I put olive oil on my deep conditioned hair before braiding. I don't let them put any of that slicking gel on my hair either. I spray my braids with a mixture of water and oil when wearing braids. I also wash my scalp WHILE I'm wearing the braids after 5 weeks. I don't wear braids 8 weeks.
I stopped doing braids of april of this year and started doing mini braids and twists without extension after my big chop..and one thing I regret was getting box braids last month and my edges have seen better days..I removed them ...thank God
I got braids for the first time a couple years ago and only kept them in for a week because of how heavy they were and how itchy it made my scalp. I also just recently got braids last summer and kept them in for a month. I think keeping braids in only for about a week or 2 weeks is best. Because when I took off my braids my hair was so much more fine and broke off so much. I already have extremely loose curls and very fine hair and braids are just too harsh for me. Maybe i didnt detangle well enough during the process of taking them out but all in all im definitely only getting braids about once a year. Getting braids back to back is never a good idea unless you want your hair to have more breakage on the ends. I had so much breakage that i had to cut my hair to basically a bob i was so disappointed.
My coworker just shared with me how she would put her hair in protective styles, like braids..grow her hair a few inches, only to lose most of it due to having to trim split ends. As tempted as I am to get braids, I am against have that tension along my hairline just so the style can “last”…once a week wash & conditioner with deep conditioner and a leave-in, along with weekly roller sets have been my go to thus far, with trims every 6 weeks or so..
Mine is a special case, but back in college some 20 years ago, I wore my hair in braids for three years straight (just kept getting them re-installed when I went back home bc I was in this small white town for college). Underneath those braids, I had relaxed hair (!!!) As you can imagine, that turned out to be the absolute worst period of my life, hair wise. Just those few years produced thin edges that, to this day with all kinds of treatment and having worn my hair naturally since that debacle, have not regrown. I pray that kind of behavior is a relic of the early 2000s.
Hi. Michelle Jacqueline here. This is my first video. I tried box braids with hair for the first and the last time last Summer. I took them out after 2 days. Horrible experience. I like box braids but never again I will add hair. This Summer I've been wearing corn braids for almost 3 weeks now.
Wow! I used to braid my own hair when overseas. I would slather my hair in grease as I braided my hair. It was super healthy and long. I then did the Keretin Tx, my hair was never the same followed by 5 years of more braids done overseas. My hair really thinned out…I thought it was just due to age!
I wear wigs in the winter. So i believe shes correct. I usually put conditioner and glycerin to keep ut moist. When i take my braida out i wash my hair and put lots of oil then they slide right out. The sides though dont grow because of braids so yes i will give it a break.
You’re too late! I’ve already paid my deposit 😢 I have only ever wore braids though at least 4 times in my life and I’m 26. I plan on getting the French Curl braids and I’m so excited!!! I’m only getting this because I will be on a long vacation and don’t feel like dealing with my natural hair. Before the braids I was planning on micro-links but I think that would’ve been 10x the maintenance
I went to Trichologist after wearing braids my hair got thin and starting getting receding hair line...im now getting treatments to fix my issues i was told i cant use thick oils cause i had scalp irritation and its to heavy for my hair....I was doing hair mask and see if that will help
Hi Britany! Are you accepting new clients? Would like to have my hair done by a professional stylist such as yourself. Your work with natural hair is unmatched! Please let me know if I can book a future appointment with you. Thanks so much for responding 😊
Everything you said was true . I wore braids for about 4 weeks . When I took my hair down the braids did leave my hair dry and I had split ends which lead me to getting a hair cut 😒 don’t think I ever want braids again
I haven't wore braids in decades. I recently installed some myself just because of this hot & humid weather that continues to turn my twistout into an afro. LOL!!! On a better note, I usually wear my hair in it's natural state.
I don’t use protective styles I find that they set my hair back so I haven’t done it in years and my hair is waist length natural so thanks for this video
I’m taking mine down right now. I’m back in school as a full time student. Trying to balance everything as an adult learner. I’ve noticed thinning. My hair never feels dry though. I keep my braids in for 2-3 months. I’m going to do mini twist instead
I've been natural for almost 2 years. I went to a beauty school for French braids so my hair could be put up during the summer as I vaycayed and swam. My plan was to get extensions, but the student who did my hair didn't know how to feed hair yet, so I settled for just having my natural hair braided. I try not to neglect my hair. I wash, condition, and moisturize regularly. I add water, butter, creams, and oils, regularly to keep the hair soft and conditioned and I massage the scalp. I also sometimes wear turbans and wigs as they style ages and looks old. I'm about ready to take them down. I don't know what I am going to do next.
My hair grows better without braids. I’ve noticed it and decided to stop doing them. However, I’m struggling with my 11-year old’s hair. Braids are a problem even when we do not use haor. I’m also concerned that the blow drying before the braids are installed is a problem.
This is the first summer I'm wearing my natural hair out without braids. I'm rocking an afro, and it feels so freeing to wear it out. I spray some water on it and pick it out, then I shape it, and it takes me no more than 5 minutes. And the bald spots I had from wearing braids are growing back in. 😢
Darling, it depends on the texture of the hair. If coarse like mine, cannot comb through no matter how much and what you use to moisturerise it. No way i can live it out coz i get depressed every time i think of combing it. It hurts like hell.
Let's just talk about how a lot of you are not tapping into head rap Engineering. And daily scalp and braid Maintenance! That's why your hair is breaking. Giving your braids daily maintenance, which your hair is woven into and scalp care is key. I am 3 inches from BUTT length and My hair thrives in protective styles.
Not to mention the edge control makes the hair hard/stiff that the braiders use like grease and the technique of yanking out those knots they create while feeding in the synthetic hair…that will easily explain thinning ESP of the ends it’s horrible
I did a big chopped I can't use human hair or synthetic hair because it makes my hair and scalp itch. I whether do my wash and go. I have a head full of hair.
I do my own braids and i never leave them in past three days. I do large knotless and i can definitely feel the weight of the braids on my hair strands and i know thats not normal. Plus i dont do knotless all the time for that reason and when i do i moisturize my hair before doing it
The synthetic hair of braids exfoliates hair! I knew this was happening when all my eyebrows were rubbed off from the synthetic hair constantly falling into my face. At that point I knew that my hair was also suffering the same fate. Up until then I didn't understand why my hair never grew in braids. I was also beginning to suffer permanent hair loss because of the tension braids put on my hair. Just not worth it.
Now I have had braids and I love braids I would get them done again but for one their pricey he just having a baby I just don't fit into my budget anymore I would say the middle of my head it was fine but the sides of my hair when it's a little thin at and it's not as thick as the middle it did come out
i cant braid my hair anymore. It starts to itch the moment i braid it. I have tried buying itch free braids but it doesnt help. I am sticking to natural twists now
Do you wash the hair? Anything that goes on my scalp gets washed thoroughly and I've never had my hair itch before. Plus sometimes itching can be caused by braiding too tight.
Great video, very helpful! What if you have 4c hair that's really difficult to handle in the summer? What styles would you recommend sans wearing an afro? I have CCCA in my crown so that makes it even more challenging.
Have you tried just twisting or braiding with your own natural hair? Twists and braids with your own hair tends to be low tension, and you have access to moisturize.
Dont mention some braiders are cutting your edges for baby hair. 😢Also that hairline is going further and further back. Where the ears are, so people hairline is back there because of the breakage and damage edges.
I stopped doing braids a lot and my hair thrived. Braids actually breaks my hair a lot more than just leaving it alone.
Well hair isn’t meant to be manipulated. It’s meant to keep our heads warm.
I would legit lose edges no matter how loose or little tension I put my braids. I don’t think my edges can handle braids with added hair.
What do you do to it? Do you just wear an afro out? I'm still learning the natural life! lol
@@angelictigerette I'm not natural. I'm relaxed but I take good care of it like natural hair and it's long and healthy.
@@augustacookeygam5579 That's great! I was relaxed most of my life, but I guess my particular hair type liked natural better because my hair stayed thin and it was always dry and breaking off, but I think part of the reason is that is was over processed as my sister usually gave me my relaxers and covered my entire head with the creamy crack each time she did it. My hair never grew too much past my shoulders. I'm about due for a length check now to see how much it's has grown since my last check.
I noticed that is so true. “Protective styles” promotes neglect for me. 😔 I asked God to forgive me for not cherishing and taking care of my hair. The past few months I have been doing my hair myself and it’s THRIVING 🙌🏽
Love the way you put it 'Protective styles promotes neglect'
Same for me too. I wore a wig once for 2 months and got so comfy I was sleeping in it. When I took the thing off my hair was dry and brittle like a dead plant 😢 Same with braids, I don't moisturise my hair as much. It's too easy to neglect cause the hair is styled.
@@keeshab1173 Oh no.... Nope I do not sleep in wigs. Never have done and never will. No matter how tired I am that thing has to come off or I will never sleep. Might be because I'm neurodivergent and the sensory feeling of a wig is too much when I'm trying to relax enough to go to sleep.
truth!
3:04 the problem is that the hair Braiders don’t like any product on the hair before they braid. They want the hair completely dry.
Facts! I had braids back to back last summer thinking I was protecting my hair when actually I was doing more damage. By summer's end, my hair was paper thin. 😞
@@beverleemahone5182,
Yes I thought about that. The synthetic hair can cut through your natural hair. No thank you to braiding hair. Not to rock them . And these braiding only shops care less about healthy hair.
Yup… I went to a braid shop yesterday to get two loose stitch jumbo braids that come down on each side of my neck ( pig tails) that’s my protective style/signature style. They said to each other my hair oily…and it makes it hard for the gel to stay put. They only care how the hair looks not the health of the clients hair.
I could care less…. I get my hair braided the same style every five weeks … but before I go there
DAY 1 wash day… I use a clarifying shampoo .. rinse with warm water then I shampoo and condition and rinse with warm water. After I’m done I heat up Moreanga tea bag and use the warm tea to mix my Indian herbs in a bowel. (Hanna, Indigo, Fenugreek, hibiscus, Alma, Aloe Vera powder, etc) mix it till it’s the consistency of pudding. Then put it on my head …coating every piece of strand and cover it with two shower caps and leave it on over night.
Day 2 of wash day: get up in the morning wash all the herbs out of my hair with warm water. Stay in the shower and add my deep conditioner and put on a shower cap. Get out the shower and sit under hood dryer for 45 minutes. Get back in shower and rinse out the deep conditioner . Stay in the shower with hair soaking wet put in my leave in while detangling the hair. Put on shower cap… then step
Out shower. I dress as normal. Let hair air dry a little bit then add my cream and last my oil (Fenugreek oil and Alma oil . I do the LCO method. Then I let my hair completely air dry now that I’ve sealed the hair with moisture and hydration…. Then I go and get it braided…. Takes them 1 hour to braid it. It comes out very nice.
When I tell you my hair is extremely soft and STRONG!!! Even when the African braid shops use those small tooth combs to comb my hair (I give them a big tooth comb they don’t wanna use it) but even when they use their small rat tail combs my hair is so soft it glides through the comb and when they comb my hair nothing gets into their comb no matter how rough they are with my hair. You
Don’t see clumps and clumps of my hair on the floor or in their combs even when they rough with it.
Braid shops you HAVE to prep your hair before going to braid your hair. To walk into a braid shop it’s like your hair is going to war. My hair was breaking off for two years due too stress but I’ve been doing this process for three months now and my new growth is crazy and the shedding is a very small amount. My hair has STOP breaking. Even when I take my braids out 5 weeks later it’s still moisturized.
For those 5 weeks it’s in braids I only mist the braids with warm water and then add fenugreek oil to the scalp like once or twice a week.
It's up to you have product on your hair on. But I deep condition and apply olive oil to my hair.
That’s a major problem
Great points about wearing braids! I wore braids with extensions from May 2023 to October 2023 back to back. I noticed my hair was thinner after the braids were moved. I decided not to get any braids this year and just keep my hair in a bun. My hair is thicker.
@@reneeharrell7075 so glad to know you’re seeing better results with your hair! Thank you for watching. 💛
Never wear them back to back that's a long time to wear them. Nothing wrong with braids if you know how to care for your hair.
I chopped all my hair off and I am determined to grow my hair back naturally without putting any extensions. I want to learn to love my hair through every season.
I pray this message finds you well. I did the same. I cut my locs off in January after having them for 5 years. I’m determined to wear my hair with no extensions (braids, sew-ins, wigs) . Peace and blessings on this journey
❤❤You can do it!! I did without wearing any extensions in my hair. I twist at night and wear it out during the day. We must love our hair. I am kinky kinky. Loving it!!
I got hair trim down. With a clipper. (She use a 1 blade) And I am going to a dermatologist for scalp treatments. And prescribe a hair growth.
You can do it!!!! I'm on the same journey I cut my locs off almost a year ago and my hair is thriving. God convicted me about my locs and weave so no more locs or weave for me.
@@samlewis6615 what did he convict you about regarding locs?
Finding out that the PET and PVC in synthetic hair can cause cancer and reproductive issues made me wanna stay away from extensions forever! It might be fun to have butt-length hair that you can whip around lookin' all cute and stuff, but who wants to risk getting endometriosis or ovarian cancer for some long fake hair?
This is a key point I hope would be mentioned in the video. This has also deterred my use of braids.
Everything and anything causes cancer nowadays .
Very true , Rebundle Is a brand that creates braiding hair from banana fibers it seems to be a good option for those who like to wear braids
I think your work life impacts your choices. For people who work 9 to 5 jobs, it’s easier to wear hair in a natural state. But if you’re on call 24/7 for 7 days, and you could easily be out of the house for 24-28 hrs, there’s far less time to manage your hair.
I agree that your hair is often more dry with braids, but my hair retention is far greater with braids. Secondly, people need to ensure the hair stylist is not braiding too tightly.
My hair flourishes in braids.
@@obsidyenneg4333 dry/dehydrated hair will always lead to very see-through/weathered ends overtime. I’ve seen many clients retain length from braids from previous stylists; unfortunately this length is always see-through, and eventually has to be cut. The cuticle weathering comes with excessive synthetic braid wearing.
@BritanyMichelle I must be doing something different than others. My hair strands are fine but my hair volume is very dense.
I have not flat ironed my hair in 9 years. I don’t wear wigs. I trim my ends. I don’t have see through ends.
I also eat well - protein, vegetables, fruits and very few snacks. I don’t drink alcohol and I’m not overweight. My iron levels are good and I take Vitamin D supplements. I rarely eat out.
The health of our hair extends beyond mechanical manipulation.
@@obsidyenneg4333 yes, there are many other factors outside of what is done to and put on our hair, that will contribute to healthy + unhealthy hair. This of course will include taking care of the body internally (detailed in my ebook: The Ultimate Guidebook for Textured Hair).
What you’re describing for yourself sounds great, if you do this!
It may be worth considering that perhaps your strands aren’t fine. Medium/Coarse strands are far more resilient in terms of how quickly the cuticle layer can become weathered and show signs of visible damage. (This of course doesn’t negate the fact that synthetic hair weathers the hair cuticle in general, and causes damage overtime.) I’d be able to tell immediately in person.
In my professional experience, most clients who say similar things to what you mentioned above regarding their lifestyle; and keep synthetic hair protective styles in primarily/back-to-back, are often shocked in the salon chair to find see-through ends in the mirror once the hair is stretched/blown dry.
You mentioned knowing the hair is “often more dry” in braids. Yes, synthetic hair weathers the hair cuticle layer.
Healthy hair with a gorgeously maintained, full/solid cuticle layer from root to tip is always the goal and is achieved often in the salon! Good care in-between salon visits/at home, help greatly!
Thanks for sharing your experience!
I know someone just like you. Hair grows like a weed in braids. Hair is thick, dense, and long. You’re the exception to the rule.
My job might be 9-5 but I have training 3 of those 5 working days and I work out on weekends or work privately on a Saturday morning. I have a very active job, Braids are the most convenient for me but I make sure I moisturize twice a week.
I think its because some people wear the braids in first far too long. You have people wearing braids for three months or more worse when they are installed tightly. They also arent moisturizing or oiling their hair while the braids are in. Braids should be like a month or a month and a half not several months. Same for sew ins.
Exactly! Many people don't care for their braids properly. My hair is always super thick and strong when I remove my braids. I moisturize with a cream based oil moisturizer, Shea butter or other moisturizing product. My hair really thrives when I wear braids.
I agree with you both!! We have to learn how to talk care of our hair in all seasons and styles.
@@Stayingfocused242 same!
Exactly 3 ish week for me if I do them myself. 6 weeks if professional
Absolutely true, I can only wear braids that look good 4 weeks. My coils will dread if I wear them passed 6 wks tops😂
I’m a stylist and I tell my clients this often as well. Your natural hair is enough. Thanks for this video ❤
Not braided my hair since 2016. Not used relaxers since 2015. I’ve just been natural and let it lay how it wants to be. Total natural and happy😂😂😂.
I started wearing my natural hair more during the summer but when it comes to vacation I need mini twists or braids. The last time I went to the Bahamas for 6 days and wore my natural hair out, my hair was a dry frizzy mess since I stayed outside and went swimming everyday. I also had to spend an hour washing and detangling my hair everyday. So yes for vacation it’s either mini twists or braids. Fortunately my sister in law does twists and braids so I don’t have to go to the salon. Also my hair is mid back length and I grew it this long with braids. I feel like people neglect their hair when they get braids which is why their hair breaks off. When I use to get braids often, I cleansed my scalp once a week and moisturized my scalp using water and oil. I also only kept my braids in for two months at most.
If you have really bad frizz, you might need a primer cut because your cuticles are damaged. Your cuticles are damaged and staying open, so your losing excessive moisture.
My clients who go back and forth to box braids have had major thinning since the “goddess braid” explosion. They let the convenience overrule logic lol
I put my hair in braids for three months, December 2023 to March 2024
, never again, my hair was so thin mid shaft down to my ends, I had to cut it off, I was so disappointed, after I cut it, I put it back in my regular mini twist from April, to July, my hair grew back thicker, I just took it down today, my hair is back to normal, am so happy now😂, everything you mentioned is on point, I knew better, I just wanted to use up some hair that I have, I should have just thrown it out
yes never 3 months lol I have been there. The chemicals in the hair braiding has serious health issues it thins the hair. I would like to tray crochet light minimal braiding under but never braids for 3months. It took
a while to recover.
@@jackier301 aww man. What a journey, but you made it back lol! I’ve seen some major hair/scalp issues on first-time clients wanting to come off wearing braids. Crown balding, hairline loss, see-through ends… Glad you made it back to healthier hair!
@@bitokay147 saw that you mentioned crochet, and had to chime in. Crochet dries textured hair out terribly, overtime. I wouldn’t opt for it. If you want the look, try using virgin hair or a u-part. Natural Twists though, (tutorial in a previous video), are by far the healthiest/most effective protective style for length retention and moisture retention.
Alot of great info! I experienced thinning edges wearing braids and realized no point in damaging whats natural for fake..turns out my natural hair likes freedom😊
@@B_ready4671 “no point in damaging what’s natural, for fake.” Whew, yes. So good. 🤝🏽😌💛
Same!!!
I stopped wearing braids years ago, it made my scalp itch and they felt heavy and it’s just not for me.
@beautyofgrace3915 use feathered / pre stretched braiding hair for a lighter feel I have the same issues head full of hair if I use regular braiding hair it's heavy make my neck hurt lol
I braid every 2 months and do not go beyond waist. I neglect my hair when it is out and my hair knots easily so braids are more convenient. Since I started braids 2021 my hair has thrived and stayed healthier. I moisturize twice per week. The first time I did braids years ago my hair was down to my waist when I took them out but it was all damaged. That was before I knew how to take care of my braids and my hair in braids
Facts
Facts
Facts
They don’t protect nor grow anything!
Straight up damage.
Now that I know better, I’ve had to cut over 6 inches of my hair.
My cuticles are just damaged!
Love this type of content! Thank you for saying this. I stopped getting box braids and extensions in February and surprise surprise, my edges started to return 😅
You are so right its a bit of laziness. We have to put the work in. Its burning here in nyc and I debated but decided no to braids. I got braids in college and lost alot of hair when in Brooklyn. They just pulled too tight. I grew a lot of more hair under a loose wig half wig in the pandemic just didn't touch it massaged and one year 4 inches longer. You
I’ve never been a big braids person or “vacation braids” I like styling my own hair frequently and also don’t like sitting for braids, taking them down…needless to say wearing my own hair this Summer. My daughter is into braids but I monitor the frequency (very infrequently) and not for too long. Also mindful the braider doesn’t braid too tight.
This is just continuing the narrative that natural hair is so fragile nothing can be done to it. This is simply not true. I have mid back 4B hair and I regularly get silk presses, braids, etc. Every style can be done in moderation and with care.
That's your hair. I am someone with FRAGILE HAIR and no amount of care and moderation is going to change that. I 'm aware that some people have resilient hair and scalp that they can do anything to but what I don't understand is why people with hair that can do anything are not aware of people whose hair is actually fragile. We both deserve space in the hair care and hair styling world. Hair care, hair products and hair styling are not one size fits all.
Natural hair is fragile , it is what it is . The first step is acceptance 😭
@scorpiothesaint My mom has thin eyebrows and overplucked them in the 60s and 70s.....in the 90s and 2000s that was the signal for my sister and I to never touch our eyebrows. Lol! I have thicker wilder brows and my sister has thinner ones but I'm over 40 and my sister is over 30 and we both still have eyebrows...if we want to change them we can use makeup that washes off and isn't permanent!!
Exactly. I wear braids and faux locs a lot and I've always had healthy hair. Maybe because I do it myself idk. I don't do them long all the way to my kneecaps lol and I don't make them tight. Plus I don't keep them in over a month. If I do, I wash them and redo the front.
Check to so if you have some deficiencies, your body may not be absorbing vitamin and minerals properly. If not it may be be hereditary, but most of the time people simply have bad habits they are unwilling to break. Hair is always growing , you’re not retaining length possibly bc it’s breaking off at the same rate of growth.
What’s why I went back to crochets! Braids used to work fine but these stylist want your hair dry asf to make their jobs “easier” but our hair pays the price.
Crochet is even worse! You’re braiding your hair then crocheting hair with a needle through braids… even more tension.
@@nneenaa6343 funny because I used to do crochets In 2019 then stopped because it wasn’t popular anymore. Had tons of growth then switched to braids which thinned out my hair. I decided to do what worked in the past and went back to crochet.
We can’t have shit.
@@Austinflwrz we have our Natural Hair!! 📢
@@BritanyMichelle not the bullhorn😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
You can. It’s called healthy thick long and gorgeous hair. ❤ learn to take care of your natural hair, you won’t even believe how beautifully your hair can flourish.
This made me lol.
Lmao the sadness in this comment. Girl, we HAVE PLENTY! God has blessed us with natural hair, but we try to do everything to fit in and look “ExoTiC”, when in reality our natural hair is what makes us so unique. But we can’t enjoy our natural hair cuz we are beating it up with wigs, weaves, box braids and extensions. That’s what’s truly sad 😅
I get braids often and my stylist sometimes ask if I’ve had someone cut or do something to my hair because it’s in the same healthy condition I left her with. I honestly think it’s about how you take care of your hair
How do you care for it?
@@denisejeffrey5853before I go get my hair braided . Day 1 of wash day) I use clarifying shampoo rinse with warm water then shampoo and condition and rinse with warm water. I boil moringa tea then get a bowel and add my Indian herbs ( Henna, Indigo, Shikakai, Amal, Brahmi, aloe Vera Neem, Hibiscus, curry leaf, Kapoor, fenugreek) with the warm moringa tea water i add to the bowel of powders then make a paste. I add the herbs to my hair and put on a shower cap and sleep with it over night. Day 2 of wash day i wake up and rinse out the herbs with warm water in the shower…deep condition with heat for 45 minutes and rinse out the deep conditioner with warm water. I then do the LCO method. Leave in…then cream…then Oil…(I use Alma oil and fenugreek oil) then I go get the hair braided. BY that point the hair is so extremely soft and strong that even when the braid shop pulling at it with rat tail comb no hair breaks off . It glides through the comb. 🪮 even when they use a small tooth comb. I get simple two big braids pigtails done that are not tight. Takes the braid shop an hour to braid. My new growth has been insane.
While the hair is in braids for the five weeks… I spray it with warm water like once or twice a week…then I add Fenugreek oil to the scalp. When I take out the braids the hair still moisturized. New growth is a lot then I repeat the process.
Synthetic braiding hair tears my hair up so much no matter what I do
same!
That's what human hair is for.
I can wear braided/twisted styles. However, they have to be done with extra care and I still need to shampoo and condition weekly and apply braid spray and scalp spray daily. One month is probably the maximum I can go now with my perimenopausal hair and scalp. When I was a teenager and in my 20s, my hair and scalp were more resilient, so I would wear the braids/kinky twists for 12 weeks and shampoo and condition once a month. I still needed daily braid spray though. I tend to wear braids/kinky twists in the autumn to get a rest from constantly having my hair out and weekly detangling but still being able to go swimming weekly.
I’ve committed to only getting braids once a year, in the summer. Just got back from Greece with them in but I refuse to keep them in for longer than 6 weeks and pray I don’t have damage 😅
Seems like most of the things that are labeled "protective styles" over time tend to be the most damaging. Even wearing hats or scarves all the time cause damage to hair as well. Hair is just meant to be out and free.
This is so true. I stop doing braids with extensions. Im currently with my almost 4 weeks mini braids on natural hair without extensions. I recently made a braided ponytail that i attach it to my hair to change my look depending on the event and immediately I come back home, i will remove it. My routine is, i moisturise once or twice a week, at 4 weeks, i will shampoo, deep conditioned , leave in conditioner and take down and renew each braids while maintaining it's original parting. At 2 months, i will follow thesam procedure but switch to mini twist and keep for 2 month. At the end of 4 months, i will take down the twist, wash and blow dry and check if there is split end or my hair needs trimming. This has help with my weekly moisture routine, my scalp is clean, not itchy . Im also 9 weeks postpartum and i plan to keep this routine through out till the end of this year. My hair feels very moisturized very nourished and is thicker than before 7:57
My routine is very similar! I keep my hair in mini braids (just my hair) and wash, condition, and style them as if they’re locs. Every two months I have them completely redone. In the beginning I had to trim often (every quarter) because I didn’t want to cut all that needed to be cut. But now that the damage is gone, I trim just 2x a year. On my way to TBL.
Heyyyy
I believe also depends on how the braids are installed and maintained.
I wash my extensions and moisturize them in conditioner before i install them. I also braid my own hair, I do not braid them tight at all. I also shampoo and moisturize my hair in braids. Even before I start to install the braids, i make sure to moisturize my hair. Also i do small to medium braids.
It's really about way the braids are installed, the size of the braids, the maintenance, how long the are kept in andhow they are taken down. Most women are in a hurry to take them down and get right to washing their hair. They can be too rough sometimes.
I only install extensions twice a year though. I still prefer doing mini twists on my natural hair.
I actually think that the way most salons/braiders do braids (requiring heat to blow out, not moisturizing prior, combs that break hair, not being gentle with hair, sometimes tight, heavy, too much gel), leads to breakage. If you do it at home yourself without these things can be be healthy, but as the poster said, you dont NEED it. My hair flourished most, when i was doing it myself and too lazy to braid. Once i eased up on my prior standards and went to salons, only a handful of times and let them braid my hair about 3 times, my hair started thinbing and breaking. Completely mishandled. Working to repair now.
That's why I wanna learn how to french braid, so I can do my own hair. The salon blew my hair out and used a tiny comb. I'm still learning.
Just got my hair braided yesterday.
You're so beautiful! I love how your hair is styled here :D Great advice. I left braids 4 years ago and never looked back lol
So glad you enjoyed, and thanks so much! 💛
Depending on how the braids are done, my hair thrives in braids. I retain so much length but it's too hard to find someone who can do my braids the way I'd like so I don't get them anymore. Most women with type 4 hair are too scared to wear their natural hair out so I feel like this message will only be heard by the few people who are wearing braids because they're truly convinced that it's helping them somehow.
Definitely love my braids
Two of the reasons I stopped getting braids was the time it took for installation and take down. 😢 I started using my natural hair to do twists. I also paid attention to dryness in my scalp and hair. Sometimes I would moisturize my scalp and hair every two days. My hair is growing. I recently started using Twelve12 scalp spatula, hair mist and other products. I sometimes have an itchy scalp after wash day. I haven’t had that problem since then.
I stopped wearing synthetic braids a few years back, I was always putting my delicate edges at risk and finally decided to stop the madness. Best decision I ever made. I do still enjoy mini braids and twist with my natural hair ❤.
I paid an African Braider to install crochet twists that wanted to be twist outs. I had her remove it on day three. No refund but at least she didn’t charge to remove it. Two hours of work gone in ten minutes. She said that she didn’t know the hair would unravel.
@brendarewan7441 no them Africans braid to hard .
Pre-braided crotchet hair looks nice.
I enjoyed your video! I've never tried braids for the summer. Instead I've worn a crochet style. But this summer, I'm wearing my hair natural, which I thought I couldn't do, and I love it!
Yes,yes, please educate us about hair grease I heard it’s not good for the scalp
maybe I'm mis-remembering, but I thought people put petroleum on their neck/ears before they get a relaxer as a barrier to keep those chemicals from burninating their skin. If petroleum is used as a barrier, then wouldn't it clog hair follicles and inhibit growth if it's applied to the scalp?
i stopped wearing braids a few months ago. I noticed, not matter how loosely and delicately I braided my edges they kept thinning. The rest of my hair was fine though but i was getting a small bald area right below each temple and i think i gave myself permanent thinning in my front middle center part area. it was the weight of the braids. No matter how loose you braid them they still carry weight on the follicles. Not only that....they are just darn uncomfortable!!! They are bulky, heavy, they feel terrible against the skin because they are basically plastic. Just a heavy, sweaty, cumbersome feeling. My edges are now filling in, i feel the breeze on my scalp, i don't have these heavy sweaty tbh yucky feeling things on my head and I dont think i would ever go back. I just wear my natural hair now which i was resistant to for so long but i LOVE feeling like my head can BREATHE
What about braids without extensions? This summer I wear my hair in 9 thick cornrows, and so far, my hair is fine. I take them out every week to 10 days, comb the hair out, and redo them. Sometimes, I make them into flat twists instead of braids. I can wash and condition my hair with the braids/twists in or take them out, wash and redo them. As my hair gets longer, I find it difficult to wear it out during the summer. It shrinks and gets matted and tangled. That doesn't happen during the cool/cold months.
Got my braids done 2 weeks ago took them down this week. They were way too tight! my scalp was itching and burning. I feel so bad for torturing my scalp. 😢
This is wild. I just had crochet boho braids in and took the out today because my scalp was so dry. It has never happened to me before and I moisturize my hair very well. I was missing my natural hair being out.
I spent 2 years without braids and it’s been all good, my hair has grown a lot and I love it! BUT I’m tired and need a break so I’m getting some soon 😩
no wigs, no relaxers, no perms and now you guys are trying to say braiding ur hair is bad? pls rest
if you’re keeping your braids in for too long, not installing them correctly and not moisturizing them properly then obviously you will damage your hair in the process. pls use wisdom when installing your braids.
they’re one of the easiest protective styles you can do and people STILL find a reason to complain sigh
@@nodrvgs please watch the full video for clarity on my stance. 💛
She’s telling the truth. Her only mistake was not showing video evidence to make a stronger case!
It’s not a joke.
If black women care about having stunning hair, they must stay away from braids.
Thank u for sharing these great tips, but girl... where were u when I was wesaring my braids consecutively back-to-back! All the damage 💔 u describe is accurately what I experience. Luckily, I found an excellent stylist who isball about healthy hair who gave me the best bob haircut after the treamtents that she guarantees will knock my hair back into shape. Im learning to appreciate my natural curls and do my own twist-outs & wash & go's. Hard to believe that I wont wearing braids for a long time bc that was my go-to & scape goat. Im excited about my new hair journey & I hope to see more hair care videos from you. 😊
I’m actually rocking my natural hair are well as a straight hair natural, it’s been very hot and humid. Current hairstyle: high ponytail with curl wavy side bangs. Easy care and go for me that last through my whole day.
I spend the rest of the year bouncing back from summer Braids. I agree with this message!
I’ve been very successful with mini twisting my own natural hair and doing small flex rods on my natural hair each style last week or two maybe three weeks and that’s been my protective style as of late because Braids tear my hair up!
What are your thoughts on boho braids?
I wore goddess braids all summer '23 (and paid $$$$) expecting to see hella growth and instead they thinned my hair out so badly I had to chop off 4 inches! I love the look but not worth it for me especially with braiders in my area charging $5-600
Yes natural hair can be a pain but I love it I embrace that it cant be bone straight all the time trying simple buns keep it simple it feels good to have my natural hair out - oil massages every 2 -3 days has stopped me losing hair during hair washes I thought it was so weird. Literally a small little hair ball thats it. Love the video.
Thank You for such an informative vid. Been doing wash n go’s in the Anthony Dickey method all year and my hair is thriving, along with Ayurvedic challenges. I will likely put my hair in braids for a conference in August
@@ramahh979 glad to hear your hair is thriving! Clients in the salon who primarily wear Wash + Go’s, and do well maintaining it; do tend to have pretty hydrated hair overall! Hoping you continue your great routine, after your braids! 💛
@@BritanyMichellethank you! I can’t leave them in long without it compromising my hair. Appreciate you sharing this with us
Finally someone said it! Every time I get braids my ends start poking out within the first week
Lol I need braids because ima swim ... lol
I had my natural hair without extensions french braided so I could swim. lol
@@angelictigerette see the braids are necessary lol 😆
@@Plain-it4in Without them, when my head hits that water, it'd be a tangled mess! 4C girl here!
@angelictigerette my daughter Is a 4c baby 🥰🥰the braids are necessary... cause without them we'd be doomed
LOVE your hair! Can we get a how-to/hair routine??? Thanks, sis!
I put olive oil on my deep conditioned hair before braiding. I don't let them put any of that slicking gel on my hair either.
I spray my braids with a mixture of water and oil when wearing braids. I also wash my scalp WHILE I'm wearing the braids after 5 weeks. I don't wear braids 8 weeks.
I stopped doing braids of april of this year and started doing mini braids and twists without extension after my big chop..and one thing I regret was getting box braids last month and my edges have seen better days..I removed them ...thank God
I got braids for the first time a couple years ago and only kept them in for a week because of how heavy they were and how itchy it made my scalp. I also just recently got braids last summer and kept them in for a month. I think keeping braids in only for about a week or 2 weeks is best. Because when I took off my braids my hair was so much more fine and broke off so much. I already have extremely loose curls and very fine hair and braids are just too harsh for me. Maybe i didnt detangle well enough during the process of taking them out but all in all im definitely only getting braids about once a year. Getting braids back to back is never a good idea unless you want your hair to have more breakage on the ends. I had so much breakage that i had to cut my hair to basically a bob i was so disappointed.
My coworker just shared with me how she would put her hair in protective styles, like braids..grow her hair a few inches, only to lose most of it due to having to trim split ends.
As tempted as I am to get braids, I am against have that tension along my hairline just so the style can “last”…once a week wash & conditioner with deep conditioner and a leave-in, along with weekly roller sets have been my go to thus far, with trims every 6 weeks or so..
Mine is a special case, but back in college some 20 years ago, I wore my hair in braids for three years straight (just kept getting them re-installed when I went back home bc I was in this small white town for college). Underneath those braids, I had relaxed hair (!!!) As you can imagine, that turned out to be the absolute worst period of my life, hair wise. Just those few years produced thin edges that, to this day with all kinds of treatment and having worn my hair naturally since that debacle, have not regrown. I pray that kind of behavior is a relic of the early 2000s.
Great info! Thanks for sharing! I’m also a hair care specialist and I resonate with everything that you said, I tell my clients the same!
@@byashleerene love this, thank you for watching and leading your clients to healthier hair! 🤝🏽💛
Hi. Michelle Jacqueline here. This is my first video. I tried box braids with hair for the first and the last time last Summer. I took them out after 2 days. Horrible experience. I like box braids but never again I will add hair. This Summer I've been wearing corn braids for almost 3 weeks now.
Wow! I used to braid my own hair when overseas. I would slather my hair in grease as I braided my hair. It was super healthy and long. I then did the Keretin Tx, my hair was never the same followed by 5 years of more braids done overseas. My hair really thinned out…I thought it was just due to age!
I have to admit my hair is flourishing without braids. The braids were damaging my hair as i constantly did them
I find braids to be protective but I only get them 2 or 3 times per year and I get large braids. I appreciate your points though. Thank you.
I wear wigs in the winter. So i believe shes correct. I usually put conditioner and glycerin to keep ut moist. When i take my braida out i wash my hair and put lots of oil then they slide right out. The sides though dont grow because of braids so yes i will give it a break.
You’re too late! I’ve already paid my deposit 😢
I have only ever wore braids though at least 4 times in my life and I’m 26. I plan on getting the French Curl braids and I’m so excited!!! I’m only getting this because I will be on a long vacation and don’t feel like dealing with my natural hair. Before the braids I was planning on micro-links but I think that would’ve been 10x the maintenance
I went to Trichologist after wearing braids my hair got thin and starting getting receding hair line...im now getting treatments to fix my issues i was told i cant use thick oils cause i had scalp irritation and its to heavy for my hair....I was doing hair mask and see if that will help
Hi Britany! Are you accepting new clients? Would like to have my hair done by a professional stylist such as yourself. Your work with natural hair is unmatched! Please let me know if I can book a future appointment with you. Thanks so much for responding 😊
@@tiamariadiaz9834 Hi! Available salon dates can be found online at britanymichelle.co. Thank you for your inquiry, we look forward to your visit! 💛
Everything you said was true . I wore braids for about 4 weeks . When I took my hair down the braids did leave my hair dry and I had split ends which lead me to getting a hair cut 😒 don’t think I ever want braids again
I haven't wore braids in decades. I recently installed some myself just because of this hot & humid weather that continues to turn my twistout into an afro. LOL!!! On a better note, I usually wear my hair in it's natural state.
I don’t use protective styles I find that they set my hair back so I haven’t done it in years and my hair is waist length natural so thanks for this video
if y’all can’t part with braids just mask sure to cleanse the hair with acv, and mist your braids with rose water & seal with oils 3x a week.
I’m taking mine down right now. I’m back in school as a full time student. Trying to balance everything as an adult learner. I’ve noticed thinning. My hair never feels dry though. I keep my braids in for 2-3 months. I’m going to do mini twist instead
I've been natural for almost 2 years. I went to a beauty school for French braids so my hair could be put up during the summer as I vaycayed and swam. My plan was to get extensions, but the student who did my hair didn't know how to feed hair yet, so I settled for just having my natural hair braided. I try not to neglect my hair. I wash, condition, and moisturize regularly. I add water, butter, creams, and oils, regularly to keep the hair soft and conditioned and I massage the scalp. I also sometimes wear turbans and wigs as they style ages and looks old. I'm about ready to take them down. I don't know what I am going to do next.
My hair grows better without braids. I’ve noticed it and decided to stop doing them. However, I’m struggling with my 11-year old’s hair. Braids are a problem even when we do not use haor. I’m also concerned that the blow drying before the braids are installed is a problem.
Plz touch on correct use of grease on hair.
Very insightful . I wonder how relevant this info is to market or afro springy twists -- passion twists , faux locs.
@@deleskacrockett9711 same applies to the synthetic hair you mentioned.
This is the first summer I'm wearing my natural hair out without braids. I'm rocking an afro, and it feels so freeing to wear it out. I spray some water on it and pick it out, then I shape it, and it takes me no more than 5 minutes. And the bald spots I had from wearing braids are growing back in. 😢
You still need some moisturizer
Yeah I only get braids twice a year and I don't leave in over 3 weeks and not back to back.
Darling, it depends on the texture of the hair. If coarse like mine, cannot comb through no matter how much and what you use to moisturerise it. No way i can live it out coz i get depressed every time i think of combing it. It hurts like hell.
Let's just talk about how a lot of you are not tapping into head rap Engineering. And daily scalp and braid Maintenance! That's why your hair is breaking. Giving your braids daily maintenance, which your hair is woven into and scalp care is key. I am 3 inches from BUTT length and My hair thrives in protective styles.
braiding my hair grew my hair out a lot, but i stop wearing braids due to braiding hair being extremely toxic.
Not to mention the edge control makes the hair hard/stiff that the braiders use like grease and the technique of yanking out those knots they create while feeding in the synthetic hair…that will easily explain thinning ESP of the ends it’s horrible
This explains alot!!
my front scalp a patch of it is gone i'm not doing it anymore
I did a big chopped I can't use human hair or synthetic hair because it makes my hair and scalp itch. I whether do my wash and go. I have a head full of hair.
I do my own braids and i never leave them in past three days. I do large knotless and i can definitely feel the weight of the braids on my hair strands and i know thats not normal. Plus i dont do knotless all the time for that reason and when i do i moisturize my hair before doing it
I do my own braids. I have trichollatamia so i Pick my hair. When i have braids i dont pick at my hair.
The synthetic hair of braids exfoliates hair! I knew this was happening when all my eyebrows were rubbed off from the synthetic hair constantly falling into my face. At that point I knew that my hair was also suffering the same fate. Up until then I didn't understand why my hair never grew in braids. I was also beginning to suffer permanent hair loss because of the tension braids put on my hair. Just not worth it.
Now I have had braids and I love braids I would get them done again but for one their pricey he just having a baby I just don't fit into my budget anymore I would say the middle of my head it was fine but the sides of my hair when it's a little thin at and it's not as thick as the middle it did come out
i cant braid my hair anymore. It starts to itch the moment i braid it. I have tried buying itch free braids but it doesnt help. I am sticking to natural twists now
Do you wash the hair? Anything that goes on my scalp gets washed thoroughly and I've never had my hair itch before. Plus sometimes itching can be caused by braiding too tight.
My hairline can’t handle it. I’ve had braids and braided styles maybe 4 or 5 times my entire life.
Great video, very helpful! What if you have 4c hair that's really difficult to handle in the summer? What styles would you recommend sans wearing an afro? I have CCCA in my crown so that makes it even more challenging.
Have you tried just twisting or braiding with your own natural hair? Twists and braids with your own hair tends to be low tension, and you have access to moisturize.
@@michaellawilson3491 I haven't but I'll try that. Thanks!
Braids grow my hair.
@@MsVandera your hair can also grow without them. 💛
Yes, to everything
Dont mention some braiders are cutting your edges for baby hair. 😢Also that hairline is going further and further back. Where the ears are, so people hairline is back there because of the breakage and damage edges.
That's not the stylist fault though. Blame the client. They ask for it.
Did she address cornrolls with crochet braids?
What about sister locs?