It's the season of protective styling and a popular go-to hair is braids. As beautiful as braids are, it doesn't come without its challenges. Asides from hair breakage if care isn't taken, build-up at the base of the braids is a major downside of wearing this hairstyle. What, then, is braid build-up?
Braid build-up is the accumulation of dirt, sweat, sebum, product residue, lint, and dead skin cells that collect at the base of braided hairstyles, particularly near the scalp. This usually occurs when the hair is kept in braids or other protective styles for an extended period without proper cleansing or maintenance.
Some causes of braid build-up include:
1. Product Overuse: Heavy use of styling products like gels, creams, and oils.
2. Lack of Cleansing: Skipping regular scalp cleansing during the braid installation.
3. Natural Shedding: Hair sheds naturally daily but it gets trapped in the braids, contributing to build-up.
4. Environmental Factors: Exposure to dust, sweat, and pollution.
Braid build-up can lead to matting or tangling at the roots, making take down more challenging.
It may cause itching, flaking, and even irritation or inflammation of the scalp.
Prolonged build-up may increase the risk of traction alopecia if the braids are too tight or heavy.
Several methods have been recommended for prevention and management of braid build-up but while experience suggests that prevention may be near impossible, management of this issue is not far-fetched. Some recommended management strategies include:
1. Cleansing: Use a diluted shampoo or scalp cleanser while the braids are installed.
2. Scalp Care: Regularly apply lightweight scalp oils or tonics that won’t cause residue.
3. Avoid Overuse of Products: Use minimal and lightweight styling products.
4. Detangling Care: Gently detangle the hair during takedown, especially near the roots where the build-up is concentrated.
While the above methods are helpful, we have created an amazing product to combat this problem, taking cue from some of the recommended strategies. This product is no other than our cleansing oil.
The cleansing oil is a multifunctional oil that gently cleanses the hair and scalp whilst also loosening the braid build-up, without the use of any tools like a comb. Only the oil and your hands are required.
How amazing is that?
At Awewa Allure, we're about recognizing pain points and working on them towards an enjoyable hair care experience.
