african braids

If you would like to learn how to take care of your braids. The book "No Lye" by Tulani Kinard has a lot info on the care of braids. I wash my braids in the shower under gentle water. Do not scrub your hair vigorously. I put the shampoo on my hands and create a small lather and use my fingertips to line my whole scalp and braids with lather. Tilt your head back and let the water gently rinse the lather. I use a herbal shampoo or a clarifying shampoo because some thick cream like shampoos can leave a residue. It depends on your hair type on how yor hair reacts to washing braids. Ask you stylist if she offers the service of hairwashing. Again the book No lye has a lot good information. Is your hair braided with regular synthetic or brand name Kanekalon hair. I think the kanekalon reacts better with washings.

I have synthetic extensions in my hair and I love them. However I am looking for the best way to take care of them, i.e. washing. The last time I had braids washing my hair seemed to cause them to loosen tremendously. My stylist says that I have to be careful about the type of shampoo I use and also the temperature of the water (keep cool). Another problem I have is that sometimes the ends of my natural hair protrudes out of the braid making the braids look tacky. Any suggestions?