How To Wash Your Braids

Protective styles are a great way to maintain your hair in the winter time.  Braids allow you to wake up and go, leave the gym with your hair in tact and also rocking braids allows you the ability to switch up your style at an instant. Some believe that you don't have to necessarily wash your hair while rocking braids, but we think it is best practice to schedule at least one shampoo if you are wearing your braids anywhere between 4-6 weeks.

It may sound like a daunting task, but it certainly doesn’t have to be! See the HairOnPurpose approved way to wash your braids!

Follow this simple step-by-step guide and don’t forget to gather the following supplies:

• Two applicator bottles

• Clarifying shampoo 

• Hydrating conditioner

• Moisturizing hair sheen or oil

• Hooded dryer (optional).

Bring On The Suds

Step 1: Begin by selecting a clarifying shampoo to help remove excess product build-up from the scalp. We've listed some of our favorites below

Klorane Vinegar Shine Rinse With Chamomile 

Kiehl's Tea Tree Shampoo

Carol's Daughter Lisa's Hair Elixir Clarifying Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Step 2: Mix Your Shampoo and Water

Mix equal parts shampoo and water into an applicator bottle. This is done to thin out the consistency of the shampoo and ease the rinsing process. Use the tip of the application bottle and apply the shampoo mix directly to the scalp, making sure to thoroughly cover the entire scalp.

Step 3: With your fingertips, gently shampoo your scalp in small circular motions. Gentle pressure will prevent frizz and help keep your braids neat. Repeat the shampoo process one more time, paying close attention to your soft circular motions!

Step 4: Once this is complete, rinse thoroughly! And when you think you got it all out...rinse again! 

It's All About The Conditioner

Conditioning is a very important and sometimes skipped step in the braid maintenance process! Some of our favorites include: 

Pantene 3 Minute Miracle Moisture Renewal Deep Conditioner

Taliah Waajid Enhancing Herbal Conditioner

As I Am Hydration Elation Conditioner

Mix Your Conditioner With Water

Step 5: Grab the second applicator bottle and fill it with equal parts conditioner and water. Using the tip of the applicator bottle, apply the mix to your scalp and braids generously and evenly.

Step 6: Use your hands to gently smooth the conditioner in a vertical motion moving from the hairline to the nape of the head. Let this sit for about 3-5 minutes and then rinse thoroughly!

Dry Me A River

Step 7: Your head and hair will feel super heavy after cleansing. This is normal; just be sure to towel dry the excess water until it is no longer dripping continuously. This may take a while, but will drastically cut down on the time it take your braids to dry.

Consider using a hooded dryer until your hair is about 75% dry, but if one isn’t available, you can certainly air dry. Just be sure to keep the braids down and avoiding putting it up in any style until the hair is completely dry.

Rise and Shine

Step 8: So, you’ve completed all the steps and your hair is completely dry! What’s next? Use of a hair sheen or oil to keep your braids looking healthy and shiny! Try one of these top-rated options:

Uncle Funky’s Daughter Shining Star Hair & Scalp Elixir