Summary. Protective hairstyles like flat twists, cornrows, and box braids can help promote hair growth and prevent breakage.
After you've installed your braids, be sure to smooth down any loose hairs around your hairline with edge control. If you've ever wondered which protective style lasts longest, the sheer nature of how box braids are created makes this one of the longest-lasting natural hairstyles.
Braids can be a great option when trying to avoid hair loss. This is mainly because they are low to the head and don't pull on the hair too much. They also often sit on the shoulders, which means they put less weight on the hair follicles. Out of all the hair loss-friendly hairstyles, they are also the most versatile.
Mythbusting: Braids & Hair Growth
But unfortunately, braiding hair does not speed up growth rate. Your hair grows at a rate determined by genetics, while lifestyle factors like your diet and stress levels can cause thinning and breakage. But the way you wear your hair is not a factor in your hair growth rate.
You may wonder, “How long can I keep the protective style in?” The answer will change depending on which stylist you ask. Some will say 4 weeks while others will say 12. The standard is typically 6 to 8. Keep in mind that the longer you leave your protective style in for, the more build-up you'll have.
“Other than age, hair can grow slower due to health conditions, vitamin or nutrient deficiencies caused by a poor diet, stress, hormonal imbalances, certain medications and even excessive heat damage from everyday styling,” explains Pierre.
This hair growth myth is related to the very real observation that certain braiding styles, weaves, or extensions that put significant tension on the scalp can lead to hair loss. Braids and ponytails on their own won't damage your hair or slow down the growth, especially if you don't pull them tight at the scalp.
Yet, there are some styles that have been approved by hair specialists more than others. Box braids seems to be the winning hairstyle as it was the recommended style against twist. It was also reported to stretch the hair more and in turn accelerate hair growth more than the others.
What we have noticed with cornrows and plaits is that they can help your hair grow. However, there are a wide range of reasons why hairstyles with braids can help your hair grow. In fact, we would like to add that there are a few key things that you need to do to help your hair grow while it's braided.
Protective braids, like cornrows and Ghana braids, can be kept for as long as three months with the right amount of care. While these braids are tight, creams and oils are used when weaving them to prevent them from pulling on your scalp too much.
"The easiest solution is to choose a style that's going to keep hair over the spot that's balding. Try a side braid, low ponytail, or a top knot, whichever would best cover your thinning area."
According to Gemma, gradually adding hair to the braid means “knotless braids are an overall safer option, because the method creates less tension and pulling on the roots, so there's less chance of traction alopecia and follicle damage.” Jhaniel Smith swears by knotless braids.
A great way to retain length is to wear a protective style. Protective styles like braids, twists, wigs, and buns help to lessen manipulation and keep your hair protected from the elements.
Braids have become particularly popular in the natural hair community due to claims that they can grow your hair. In reality, braids don't make your hair grow, they assist with length retention. Each time you style, detangle or manipulate your hair in any way, there's a risk of breakage.
Bobs, pixies, layers, and bangs — these haircuts are strategically designed to help fine hair full-fill its potential. The look of thin hair can change dramatically with the power of the humble scissor — and the right cutting hand.
One of the benefits of having a protective style is being able to take it down and seeing how much longer and thicker your hair is.