Many people enjoy braided hairstyles for their versatility and longevity, making them a beloved choice among naturals. However, the annoying itchiness some experience while wearing braids can be a concern. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind the itchiness associated with braids and explore common causes that lead to this discomfort. Understanding the structure of tight braiding, dry scalp, product residue, and allergic reactions will provide insights to prevent this itchiness.
When braids are done too tightly, it can cause a tingling or even a dreaded itching sensation on the scalp and neck. Many have wondered why this happens and might be surprised to learn that tight braiding limits scalp airflow, leading to a dry scalp and irritation. Moisturizing regularly helps ease dryness.
Sometimes, the product residue left from styling products can contribute to an itchy feeling. Many braid wearers are unaware that these residues can stay trapped within the braid structure. Washing with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo can help reduce this buildup. Also, allergic reactions to synthetic braiding hair may cause itching. Look for hypoallergenic hair to avoid this problem.
To make braiding more comfortable and enjoyable, it’s helpful to consult hairstylists or even a board-certified dermatologist if itching persists. By treating itchiness with proper scalp care and selecting protective styles that reduce daily manipulation, you can ensure a healthy scalp while giving your curls and coils a break
What Is Braiding Hair?
Braiding hair is hair used to extend length and fullness in braided or twisted hairstyles. According to Stevens, it includes human hair and synthetic hair. Synthetic hair, made from artificial fibers to mimic natural hair, is cheaper and comes in many colors and styles but can tangle and appear shiny. In contrast, real human hair offers a natural look and feel, can be styled and treated like your own hair, and blends seamlessly. Although expensive, it lasts longer with proper care. When choosing braiding hair, consider factors like budget, desired look, and maintenance needs.
Understanding the Braids Structure
To fully grasp why braids can sometimes lead to itching and discomfort, it’s important to understand their structure.
How Braids are Created and Maintained
Braids are hairstyles made by weaving and intertwining sections of hair into a woven pattern. This can be simple or intricate, with different types like French braids, Dutch braids, box braids, and cornrows for a unique look. The process involves dividing and crossing hair sections in a specific pattern. Tension and tightness vary by personal preference and styling technique. These can create a pulling force on the scalp, causing positive or negative effects on scalp health.
The Impact of Braids on the Scalp
Braids can have both positive and negative effects on the scalp. They protect hair by reducing friction, preventing tangles, and avoiding breakage—a convenient choice for busy lifestyles or those wanting a low-maintenance hairstyle. However, tightness and tension from tightly braided styles may lead to discomfort and irritation. This pulling force can cause traction alopecia by stressing hair follicles and leading to hair loss in affected areas. Finding a balance with desired tightness helps avoid excessive tension and scalp harm.
Braiding Hair and Scalp Health
Braids offer benefits like promoting hair growth and minimizing manipulation, but there are downsides. Braiding hair can lead to hair loss and breakage from tension and weight. Keep natural hair moisturized with oil, cream, or serum to promote scalp health. If you’re wondering, “does conditioner cause dandruff?”—not usually, but buildup from products can sometimes lead to scalp issues like dermatitis and folliculitis with heavy use.
Why do my braids itch?
Have you ever had to discreetly pat your head in a public setting to get rid of an itch? OML, itchy braids and weaves can be so embarrassing! While protective styles like braiding hair offer ease and beauty, they can cause itching and discomfort. Instead of spending time pre-washing extensions or taking out the style prematurely, try solutions that don’t require pre-washing. This saves time and money while helping to maintain your hairstyle comfortably.
Preservatives
To preserve braiding hair and prevent mold during storage, companies often add a chemical solution like alkaline lye. Once installed, this chemical coating can react with the scalp, leading to itch and tenderness. However, modern braiding hair with anti-itch technology helps reduce discomfort. Just like celebrities with hair transplants, who carefully maintain their hair, choosing extensions marked “anti-itch” can help avoid intense itching.
Tight braids
One reason for itchy braids is they’re installed too tight, causing bumps, irritation, and inflammation on the scalp. In worse case scenarios, tight braids can pull out hair from the roots, possibly leading to traction alopecia. The misconception that tight braiding makes the style last longer is not true and can have a damaging effect on overall hair and scalp health.
Weight
Traditional braiding hair adds extra weight to your head, leading to strain on hair strands, neck, and back. This heaviness may limit hairstyles you can tolerate, like a high ponytail or bun. Similar to how headbands can cause hair loss from constant tugging, heavy braids lead to itching, bumps, and irritation on the scalp. For Beyonce long lemonade braids, choosing lightweight hair is vital.
Allergies to the dyes
Allergies to dyes in lower-grade braiding hair can be a source of itching. These dyes may irritate the skin and run in water. Investing a few more pennies in high-quality hair helps ensure a better product.
Coarse braiding hair strands
The texture of coarse braiding hair can cause itching because fly-away hairs from coarser braiding strands may poke out and irritate the scalp. Opting for soft textured braiding hair is a good alternative as it reduces irritation and maintains grip. Also, check if your hair oil expires to avoid scalp issues. Afrelle hair provides softness and definition for modern knotless and fine braids.
Product build-up
Product can build up on your scalp and cause itching. Don’t hesitate to wash your braids—using modern braiding hair ensures your braid won’t get ruined during washing.
Dry scalp
An itchy, flaky scalp often signals a dry scalp. To stop this, regularly moisturize your scalp everyday with oils or moisturizers to hydrate. A clean, moisturised scalp can assist hair growth and make your hairstyle more comfortable.
Common Causes of Itchiness in Braids
Let’s explore the primary reasons behind braid itch.
Dry Scalp and Lack of Moisture
One of the significant culprits behind the itchiness often experienced with braids is a dry scalp. When braids are installed, hair strands are tightly woven together, making it challenging for the scalp’s natural oils to distribute evenly. This lack of moisture can leave the scalp dry and dehydrated, leading to itchiness and discomfort.
Tight Braiding Alopecia
A common cause of braid itch is when hair is pulled too tight. This can lead to traction alopecia, a condition that results in inflammation of hair follicles, leading to itching, redness, and even hair loss. If you notice your braids causing scalp irritation or discomfort, try loosening them or wearing them loose for some time.
Preservatives
Many people are surprised to learn that preservatives are one of the main causes of braid itch. Chemicals added to prolong shelf life in some types of braiding hair can cause scalp irritation and allergic reactions. If you’re prone to irritation, avoiding hair with preservatives is best.
Build-up of Product Residue and Sweat
A common cause of itchiness with braids is the build-up of product residue and sweat on the scalp. Braiding hair often involves various styling products like gels, creams, and sprays that accumulate over time, creating a layer that can trap dirt and bacteria.
Weight
Believe it or not, the weight of your braids can contribute to braid itch. If braids are too heavy, they pull on your scalp and irritate it. To avoid this problem, choose lightweight braid hair for your next style.
Allergic Reactions to Products or Extensions
Itchiness in braids can often be attributed to allergic reactions from hair products or extensions used during the braiding process. Some individuals have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients like fragrances, preservatives, and dyes. When these products contact the scalp, they can trigger an allergic response, leading to redness and irritation.
Coarse Braiding Hair Strands
Some people find that coarse braiding hair is more likely to cause itchiness than other types. If you’re concerned about this issue, try using a different type of braid hair or investing in a good quality detangling spray.
Addressing Irritation Caused by Braiding Hair
The best way to prevent irritation caused by braiding hair is through maintaining braids regularly. Diaz-Santin recommends loosening tight braids, avoiding scratching, and taking breaks between styles. For synthetic braids, Cheung suggests plant-based fibers as earth-friendly and gentler on skin than plastic polymers.
Tips to Reduce Braid Itch
With the causes of braid itch covered, let’s explore ways to ease it.
Maintaining Proper Hygiene and Cleanliness
Regular Scalp Cleansing:
Wash your scalp regularly to remove dirt, sweat, and product residue that can accumulate. Use a gentle clarifying shampoo or a formulated braid cleanser while massaging your scalp without disturbing the braids. Rinse thoroughly to ensure all shampoo is removed.
Use a Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner:
Choose a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner that helps retain moisture to prevent scalp drying and reduce itching.
Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse:
A diluted apple cider vinegar rinse can balance the scalp’s pH level and remove build-up. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water. Apply the mixture to the scalp after shampooing, gently massage, leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Moisturizing the Scalp and Hair Regularly
Use a Leave-In Conditioner:
Apply a leave-in conditioner specifically formulated for braided hairstyles to moisturize your scalp and hair without a greasy residue. Look for hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, or coconut oil.
Use a Moisturizing Spray:
A moisturizing spray can give instant hydration and relief. Spritz it on scalp and braids. Choose sprays with water, natural oils, and humectants to attract moisture.
Oil Your Scalp:
Use a lightweight oil like jojoba or tea tree oil to soothe dryness and alleviate itchiness. Massage gently, applying oil sparingly to avoid build-up.
Steam Treatments:
Occasional steam treatments allow moisture to penetrate by opening cuticles. A steamy shower or a steamer designed for hair can help keep your scalp and hair hydrated.
Protective Styling:
Opt for protective styles that give easy access to your scalp for applying moisturizing products.
Stay Hydrated:
Drink an adequate amount of water to maintain hydration from within.
Treating Scalp Inflammation and Allergic Reactions
Cool Compress:
Apply a cool compress or ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth on affected areas of the scalp to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. This can provide temporary relief from itchiness.
Anti-Inflammatory Creams or Lotions:
Consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional who can recommend anti-inflammatory creams or lotions. Over-the-counter or prescription options can alleviate scalp inflammation and provide relief from itchiness caused by allergic reactions or irritation.
Choosing the Right Braiding Technique and Stylist
Looser Tension:
Opt for braiding techniques that allow looser tension to avoid excessive pressure on your scalp and hair follicles, which often leads to discomfort and itchiness. Discuss with your stylist the desired level of tightness to ensure a comfortable style.
Scalp-Friendly Braiding Patterns:
Choose scalp-friendly patterns that distribute weight evenly across your scalp and avoid pulling on specific areas. A skilled stylist can recommend appropriate patterns to prioritize scalp health and minimize itchiness.
Hygienic Practices:
Make sure your chosen stylist follows hygienic practices like washing hands, using clean tools and equipment, and maintaining a clean environment to reduce the risk of bacteria and minimize scalp issues.
Experience and Reputation:
Choose a stylist with good reputation and ample experience in braiding. Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and schedule a consultation to assess their expertise in comfortable and itch-free braiding techniques.
Conclusion
Braided hairstyles are beloved for their versatility and longevity, but they can sometimes cause discomfort, particularly itching. This article explores the reasons behind braid itchiness, including dryness, tightness, and allergic reactions. Maintaining proper scalp hygiene, moisturizing, and choosing scalp-friendly braiding techniques can significantly reduce discomfort. For severe itchiness or dandruff, medicated shampoos and expert consultation are recommended. Finding the right balance in styling and care is key to keeping your braids comfortable.
FAQ’s
How can I stop my braids from itching?
Using a medicated shampoo with coal tar as an active ingredient can be suitable for excessive itching. Prevent scalp dryness by following up with a conditioner after shampooing. For extremely dry hair, applying jojoba or coconut oil is an ideal option to keep it moisturized.
Does itchy braids mean growth?
An itchy scalp doesn’t necessarily mean hair growth. It’s commonly linked to hair loss or scalp problems. Understanding this myth and its misconceptions is essential for proper hair care and maintaining healthy braids.
How long should you keep braids in?
I recommend 6 to 8 weeks for braids. If you go longer, take good care to avoid breakage. Rehydrating daily or every other day with more than just water will help keep hair healthy.
How Do I Make My Head Stop Itching?
For treatment of dandruff and itching scalp, try medicated shampoos with zinc parathion, selenium sulphide, or antifungal agents. Tar-containing shampoos are often used for severe scalp conditions and have been effective for years.
