“Generally, medium-size braids are a safe choice, provided they are not overly heavy. The most harmful braids are those that are excessively tight and carry significant weight.” Dr. Kikam says that, when possible, it's typically a good idea to avoid extensions altogether—or at least to use minimal additional hair.
Short answer is: yes. Some protective styles, like braids and twists, can cause mechanical damage. Think of the hair knots, tangles, and split ends you come across—that's mechanical damage. This is the wear and tear from tugging, brushing, or manipulating your strands.
1 Peter 3:3-4 ESV Do not let your adorning be external -- the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear -- (4) but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious.
Rebundle is a great braiding option using hair that is neither synthetic nor human: Braidbetter is actually made from banana plant fibers, which mimic natural hair textures and colors but are gentler on easily irritated scalps.
Braiding can protect hair from damage and breakage, which may indirectly support hair growth. By keeping the hair in place and reducing friction, braids can help retain length and minimize split ends. However, excessive tension or tight braiding can lead to hair loss, so it's essential to braid gently.
Though braids don't have a direct impact on hair growth, they have an impact on hair health. They can help growing hair stay healthy and strong, keeping it moisturized while it continues to grow. For more information on hair braiding and health, visit a hair Pro in your neighborhood and discuss your style options.
Instead of creating a knot at the root like with traditional box braids, knotless braids are created using a feed-in braid technique. As a result, there's less tension on the scalp, which can help minimize the risk of hair breakage (and is especially great for those with thin or fine hair).
Scalp Health: Some types of braids, such as cornrows or box braids, can improve scalp health by providing better access for cleansing and moisturizing. A healthy scalp is essential for optimal hair growth.
Braiding was and still is an important cultural tradition among many Indigenous American tribes. While each tribe has its own relationship to braids, many see braiding as a spiritual act, with the three strands representing the body, mind and spirit.
[14] Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? [15] But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.
Braids are a great protective hairdo as you don't have to style your hair every day, but it won't be healthy unless you nourish it. “Once your braids are installed, it's important to keep your natural hair moisturised and lubricated. Synthetic hair often dehydrates natural hair.
Yes, braids and weaves—even tight buns and ponytails—when worn over long periods of time can cause irreversible hair loss, called traction alopecia (baldness).
The longer your braids stay in, the harder it might be to maneuver around the build up. Some people end up having to cut their hair after leaving braids on for too long. So how long is safe? I'd recommend 6 to 8 weeks and if you want to go longer, you have to really take good care of it to avoid a lot of breakage.
Tension and Scalp Issues
If the braids are done too tightly, they may exert excessive tension on the scalp, leading to discomfort and, in some cases, potential scalp issues. Tension can be particularly problematic during the first few days after installation.
To be crystal clear: Braids themselves don't directly stimulate hair growth. It's not like your hair sees the braid and thinks, “Oh, it's time to grow faster!” The reality is a tad more intricate. What braids do provide is a protective environment.
Braids require tension which means they're held tightly at the roots to help them stay secure and last for weeks. Again, if you have a sensitive scalp or fragile hair, you may want to do twists instead which do not require as much tension for a firm hold at the roots.
"For thinning hair, choose a low tension braid that avoids any weak areas, like a knotless box braid," recommends Harris-Dupart. "Regular box braids start with a knot at the scalp that tends to pull the scalp as the extension hair is attached," Emmanuel adds.
Casting on windy days definitely doesn't help. Braided lines have very little abrasion resistance when compared to mono so a 'leader' of mono or fluorocarbon is needed to protect it from making contact with structure or hard surfaces.
According to Michele Green, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in NYC, choosing products with clinically proven ingredients is key to finding an effective hair growth serum. Currently, the only FDA-approved topical treatment for hair loss is minoxidil.
Typically, loose messy styles will allow you to achieve a youthful aesthetic. They can help soften your features and create a cool, effortless look. You may want to avoid super tight, pulled-back styles since they can appear severe.
Low ponytail or bun
For a classic and elegant look, you can't go wrong with a low ponytail or bun. Unlike their tight counterparts, low ponytails and buns are gentler on your hair as they reduce the tension and pulling.