Braids are a popular hairstyle for their low-maintenance and versatility. However, a question that frequently comes up when considering braids is, “how long do they last?” In this article, we will explore the factors that determine how long braids last and what you can do to make them last longer.
Factors That Affect How Long Braids Last
Several factors can influence the duration that braids last. The following are the most important:
- Hair Type: The type of hair you have can affect how long your braids last. Natural hair is stronger and more resilient than chemically treated hair, which means braids made with natural hair tend to last longer. Additionally, braids made with synthetic hair tend to last longer than braids made with natural hair.
- Braid Size: The size of the braids can also affect how long they last. Smaller braids tend to create less tension on the hair and are less likely to unravel. Therefore, smaller braids can last longer than larger braids.
- Maintenance Level: The level of maintenance you give your braids can significantly impact how long they last. Taking care of your braids involves keeping your scalp clean and moisturized, sleeping with a satin bonnet or pillowcase, and avoiding activities that could cause your braids to become frizzy or unravel.
Duration of Braids
Braids can last anywhere from two weeks to eight weeks, or even longer, depending on the factors mentioned above. It’s essential to understand that how long your braids last will depend on your hair type, the size of the braids, and the level of maintenance you give your braids.
Tips to Make Your Braids Last Longer
If you want your braids to last longer, consider the following tips:
- Choose smaller braids
- Use synthetic hair
- Keep your scalp clean and moisturized
- Sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase
- Avoid activities that could cause your braids to become frizzy or unravel
Visit Our Salon for Professional Hair Braiding
If you’re looking to get braids, our salon is the place to go. Our professional hair braiders are experienced in creating different styles of braids and can advise you on how to maintain your braids for longer-lasting results. We use quality products and take our time to ensure that our clients are satisfied with their braids. Contact us today to book an appointment and transform your hair with braids.
FAQs
How Long Do African Hair Braiding Styles Last? African hair braiding styles are meant to last a while. You can usually get at least four to six weeks of wear out of them, depending on how you prep your hair beforehand and how you maintain your braids after install.
What braiding hair lasts the longest? ›
Small box braids might take a lot of time, but the end result is well worth it. They last longer than most braids and look the most similar to your natural hair while having all the protective benefits of a braided hairstyle.
How long do synthetic braids last? ›
With synthetic hair, you don't have to worry about too much tangling, dryness, or color-fading. However, it doesn't last as long. If you're wearing it daily, for example, if it's sewn in, or if you have synthetic hair braids, then expect to get a solid three to six months out of it.
How often do you wash African braids? ›
Going slowly and washing your hair with care is essential to preventing your box braids from frizzing up after your wash. "Make sure you are gently massaging the scalp to reduce frizziness," says Mack. You should wash your hair every two weeks.
Do African braids damage your hair? ›
“When braids are too tight, this leads to damage of the hair follicle, as well as inflammation in the scalp, shares Atlanta-based, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Wallace Nozile. “[This is how] traction alopecia can occur.” Dr.
What makes braids last longer? ›
Keep Your Scalp Moist
This will help prevent your hair from drying out and eventually breaking. It also keeps your hair soft and shiny. Water is the best thing for your hair, so make sure to spritz your hair every morning with a water-based solution with natural oils such as coconut oil or almond oil.
Can I keep my braids in for 2 months? ›
The longer your braids stay in, the harder it might be to maneuver around the build up. Some people end up having to cut their hair after leaving braids on for too long. So how long is safe? I'd recommend 6 to 8 weeks and if you want to go longer, you have to really take good care of it to avoid a lot of breakage.
What lasts longer twist or box braids? ›
If you have coarser hair, twists may last longer than braids because the texture of the hair allows the twists to hold their shape better. On the other hand, if you have finer hair, braids may last longer because the finer strands can be woven more tightly together.
What size box braids last longer? ›
Micro Box Braids
Thin braids can last the longest of the box braid styles, which can be helpful if you want to space out your salon appointments. Why do they last so long? The smaller parting sections allow you to reach more of your scalp for washing and moisturizing better than some of the other braid styles.
What are the 4 disadvantages of synthetic hair? ›
Disadvantages of synthetic hair:
- Not heat resistant – In most cases you can't use any heated appliances or the wig may melt.
- Prone to frizz – Static builds up in the hair and causes ends to frizz – the hair can tangle and become unmanageable.
- Not flexible – You can't change the texture or style.
Give your hair a break. As much wearing braids is a great protective style, it's really important to have a break between braided styles. Personally, I normally do 6 weeks on and never re-install braids when the next month after to ensure I'm giving my hair time to breathe.
What is the best human hair for braiding? ›
There are two types of human hair – Indian Remi and yaki. It is down to preference and the desired result for which one you choose. Remi hair is considered the best grade for quality. It's sourced from a single (human) donor which means the cuticles are aligned in one direction.
How long can you wear African braids? ›
For the sake of your scalp's health and hygiene matters, don't have your braids on for more than eight weeks — six weeks is considered the ideal period. Whether they're twists, dread braid twists, crochet braids, or Bantu knots, having them for months on end can damage your hairline and result in hair breakage.
How long does it take to put in African braids? ›
“The time it takes depends on the skill and technique of the braider and the hair type of the client who is getting the braids—not so much on the braid style,” Hill says. “On average, a quality braid style can take anywhere from four to eight hours.”
How long can you keep braids in black hair? ›
How long should you keep your braids on? According to hair care specialist Tatiana Dudley, braids with added extensions have a lifespan of four to six weeks, while those without tend to last approximately one to four weeks. "Anything beyond six weeks runs the risk of breakage," she says.
Can braids last 4 months? ›
Generally speaking, braid extensions can last anywhere from four weeks to three months. However, the exact duration depends on several factors including the type of braids you have installed, the quality of the extensions used, your maintenance routine and your natural hair growth rate.
Does Afro hair grow faster in braids? ›
Styling your hair into braids doesn't directly make it grow faster. However, these styles can help nurture and protect your hair, making it stronger and less likely to break. To understand how this works, let's first look at how hair grows.
