Re: Braid Challengers...READY, SET...LET\'S BEGIN!!!
I would have loved to be part of this challenge, but since I've had my hair in braids since last July, I don't think it would be fair to join. However, I just wanted to wish all you ladies luck. I don't know if this is some of your first time having braids, but if so, let me give you a few "heads up" with wearing them:
One thing I had to watch for, after having my braids for a few months, was my edges thinning. You may want to get some "temple cream" or something to make sure they are not undergoing too much stress. I also make sure to spray Surge on them. I've even mixed a little of my Surge into my ProV temple cream to make sure they don't thin. Also, when you or someone else braids your hair, make sure they don't pull the hair around your edges too much. These braids may have to be a tad bit looser than the others, because you don't want the hair to come out. I have found that by using a conditioning/moisturizing gel when braiding those braids, you can still get the neat look without the stress and tension to the area.
Also, at night, to avoid added stress to the braided hair, I tend to put it up in a bun (and I have beads on mine and it works) so that they braids don't catch under you while you toss and turn in bed. Each time they catch, you could be breaking strands (FYI). You also want to not forget to moisturize the hair that is in the extended part of your braids. Many people neglect this hair and give all their focuse to the hair next to their scalp. You want all of your hair to be in great shape when you decide to finally take your braids out. So, don't neglect this hair. One thing I have found to be helpful when taking my braids out. I wash my hair right before I'm going to take them out (this removes anything that might be built up) and while the braids are still slightly damp (natural hair isn't gripping), I take the hair out. DON'T USE HOT OR TOO WARM WATER!!!!!! I find that my braids come straight out and then when I go to condition, this lessens the time because it's already clean.
When the braids are out, this is an excellent time to really pamper your hair. I do a really deep, sit under the dryer, conditioning. I take my time and add coconut oil to my scalp, and I gently massage my entire head. I use a spray bottle with nothing but distilled water in it to slightly dampen my sections as I comb them (for some people damp hair is harder to deal with..do what works for you).
Lastly, enjoy the free time will now have since you don't have to get up in the mornings and wash, condition, dry, and style your hair. Alls I do in the mornings now is spray the braids for sheen, put my cream around my edges, tie my hair up while I dress (so it won't frizz) then dress, and take the rag off my head and go
You are going to love it!
Good luck ladies!
