Q&A for How to Loosen Tight Braids

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  • Question
    What are tight braids called?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    The tightest braids are usually cornrows, which are small, and tightened at the scalp. But any type of braid, especially french-style braids can be pulled too tight.
  • Question
    How long are you supposed to keep in box braids?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    I would recommend taking them out every 4-6 weeks. This will prevent them from becoming weighed down by loose hair or creating tension at the scalp by pulling on hair unevenly.
  • Question
    Can tight braids cause hair loss?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Continuously wearing tight braids can cause hair to pull lose or break. The good news is that this loss isn't permanent. Stop wearing the tight braids and it should grow back completely.
  • Question
    How long can you keep braids in your hair?
    Community Answer
    You can keep your hair in braids for no longer than 12 weeks. Anything longer than that, and you risk your hair breaking or weakening. In some cases, you may experience hair loss.
  • Question
    Can tight braids cause hair loss?
    Community Answer
    Yes! Wearing your hair in tight braids too often or for too long can lead to permanent hair loss or alopecia.
  • Question
    How do I sleep with box braids in?
    Community Answer
    You cover them with a silk turban. This keeps the braids neat and frizz-free.
  • Question
    When you have newly plaited your hair and it's the second day but still painful, what should be done to release the pain?
    Community Answer
    You can loosen them a bit. Or, if it still hurts, put on a bonnet or a plastic bag and massage it.
  • Question
    Why do my braids feel quite heavy?
    Community Answer
    Because they are either big or you can’t handle the weight. You can replace them if you need to lighten them.
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