Even with protective hairstyles like braids, it’s essential to maintain and look after them regularly to avoid damage to the hair and for the style to last longer. And one of the best ways to do so is by moisturizing your braids.
If you’re wondering, can I spray water on braided hair? Yes, you can water spray braids to hydrate the hair and scalp, keep the braids moisturized, and prevent dryness, breakage, and tangling.
Keep reading to learn more about how to moisturize your braids for the best results.
What Can I Spray on Braids
You can spray a variety of products on braids to hydrate and moisturize the hair, including:
1. Water-Based Sprays
Hair thrives on hydration, so it is essential to spray your locks with a water-infused blend containing natural oils like coconut or almond oil each morning.
2. Moisturizing Sprays
Sometimes, the water alone won’t be enough; you’ll have to add a moisturizing agent to create the hair spray mixture. You can spray water and agents (such as olive oil, apple cider vinegar, or essential oils) to hydrate and revive the hair and help reduce tangles.
In order to stimulate your scalp, relieve itching, and add fragrance to your hair, consider adding 5-10 drops of essential oils such as tea tree, peppermint, or lavender to the water in your spray bottle.
3. Hair Oils
Oil helps to hydrate the scalp and hair, yet the added water keeps the hair from getting too greasy. Using a spray bottle makes it easy to distribute the DIW formula throughout the hair evenly and between the small braids.
How Often Should I Use Braid Spray
There’s no set frequency for using the braid spray as it depends on various factors such as your hair type, the braid style, and personal preference.
However, applying the spray daily or adding it during showers is generally safe. Spritz until your hair is damp but not soaking wet
Remember that overusing braid spray leads to buildup on the hair and scalp, which can clog pores and lead to scalp irritation or infection.
Do Braids Get Ruined in Water
Getting braids wet can cause damage or loosen them, making them appear frizzy and unkempt. Water causes the braids to swell, which leads to stretching and loosening of the hair.
Additionally, water can cause the hair fibers to become more prone to breakage, leading to split ends and frizziness.
However, lukewarm water can have a relaxing effect on the scalp by weakening the friction of the braids. It reduces flakes and soothes the scalp without risking the natural hair frizzing up by washing it.
Overall, it’s better to keep the hair dry as much as possible and avoid excessive water exposure to avoid damaging your braids. If your hair does get wet, gently pat them dry with a towel and avoid using extreme heat, such as blow drying.
What Does Water Do to Braids
The benefits of using natural water or moisturizing mix on your braids include:
- A moisturizing blend helps to hydrate your hair and prevent breakage.
- Natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera provide your hair with essential nutrients that strengthen it.
- Moisturizing mixes soothe an itchy or dry scalp, reducing the risk of dandruff and other scalp conditions.
- Spraying natural water on your braids gives them a healthy, shiny appearance, making them look more lively and attractive.
- Properly moisturized hair is less likely to become dry, frizzy, and unruly, prolonging the longevity of your braids.
DIY Braid Spray Ingredients
While braiding your hair, you can spray a DIY spray mixture on your scalp containing the following ingredients:
- An 8-ounce spray bottle
- One container of rose water, such as Elma and Sana Rosewater
- A bottle of Kinky Curly Knot Today or another leave-in conditioner with a water base.
- Roughly five drops of tea tree essential oil
- Approximately five drops of peppermint essential oil
- Around five drops of lavender essential oil
- Approximately five drops of eucalyptus essential oil.
How to Make Refreshing Braid Spray [Step-by-Step Instructions]
Step 1
Acquire a small spray bottle from a local pharmacy near you.
Step 2
Add 20 ml of your preferred conditioner into the spray bottle.
Step 3
Mix in three tablespoons or approximately 44 ml of water.
Step 4
Incorporate two tablespoons (30 ml) of 100% pure glycerin into the mixture.
Step 5
Tightly adjust the nozzle onto the top of the bottle and shake the mixture until the contents are thoroughly blended.
Step 6
Position the nozzle close to your scalp and spray in rows, starting at the back and working your way up front. Be cautious not to apply too much near your hairline, as the shampoo might drip down your face.
How Do You Rinse Your Braids and Your Scalp with Clean Water [Step-by-step instructions]
Follow these instructions to rinse your hair properly:
- Before rinsing your braids and scalp, wet your hair with lukewarm water.
- Separate your braids into sections using a hairband or clips.
- Spray clean water on your scalp and saturate your braids.
- Massage the shampoo onto your scalp using gentle circular motions.
- Work the shampoo down your braids and onto the ends.
- Rinse the shampoo off your scalp and braids with lukewarm water.
- Gently squeeze your braids to get rid of excess water.
- Once your braids are thoroughly rinsed, wrap a hand towel around the ends and secure them with a hairband.
- Finally, dry your braids with a microfiber towel and apply a moisturizer.
What Does Hot Water Do to Braids
Hot water can have several positive impacts on your braids. It softens the braids, making them more manageable and easier to style. You can also revive your braids with a bit of hot water.
If braids are tight and causing discomfort, hot water can help to relax the hair and relieve some of the tension and pain.
Oludele recommends boiling a pot of hot water, then dipping a towel into the water. Add two drops of oil to the boiling water and submerge the midshaft of your braids (where your natural hair ends) in the mixture.
Use a hot towel to dry the hair and the ends. Be sure to remove your braids from the hot water with care.
How Do You Shower With Braids
Showering with braids can be challenging, but with a few simple steps, you can keep your braids healthy and well-moisturized.
Before getting in the shower, cover your braids with a shower cap or a plastic bag to protect them from the water. It’s recommended to use lukewarm water, as this temperature is best for braids, hydrating the hair without causing damage.
When cleaning your braided hair, be gentle and avoid pulling them. Use a sulfate-free shampoo formulated for braids, and use it sparingly. Gently massage your scalp and work gently, circularly, with your fingertips.
After shampooing, use a light conditioner to hydrate and detangle your braids, focusing on the ends of the hair.
Remember to rinse your braids thoroughly to remove all the shampoo and conditioner, and gently pat your braids dry with a towel, avoiding wringing or twisting your hair to prevent breakage.
FAQs
Why do you put braids in boiling water?
Boiling water is not recommended for braids, as it can cause significant damage to the hair.
If you want to soften braids or relieve tension and pain, it is recommended to use lukewarm water instead of boiling water. Another option is to use a hot towel or a hair steamer to heat the hair, which helps relax the braids.
Does water loosen box braids?
Water can loosen box braids over time, especially if the braids are not correctly maintained and hydrated. Exposure to water can also cause the braids to stretch out, leading to loosening and frizz.
Should you wet your braids in the shower?
Wetting your braids in the shower is acceptable, but it’s important to be gentle and avoid exposing your braids to too much water. When washing the braids, gently apply the shampoo in slow, circular motions.
Does water mess up braids?
If you’re not careful, braids may become loose, frizzy, or tangled if they are exposed to an excessive amount of water. In addition, water can also cause the hair to become dry and brittle, leading to breakage and split ends.
Be mindful of how much time you spend in the shower and limit the frequency of washing your braids.
Should I let my braids air dry?
Let your braids air dry rather than using a blow dryer or other heat-based styling tools. Excessive heat causes damage to the hair and weakens the braids, leading to breakage and thinning over time.
In addition, heat-based styling tools can cause the hair to become dry and brittle, leading to tangling and matting.
Verdict
So, if you’re still asking, “can I spray water on braided hair”, do so in a gentle and controlled manner. Water can be beneficial for braids, as it helps to hydrate the hair and prevent dryness and breakage.
To ensure the health and longevity of your braids, be mindful of the amount of water you use, use lukewarm water instead of hot water, and avoid rough handling when washing the hair.
Following these simple tips, you can keep your braids looking healthy and hydrated, even when spraying water on them.
