Any braided hairstyle has side effects like itchy scalp and frizzy hair. All of these will make it tempting for you to take a shower and get rid of the issues. But, this is the irony of braids, getting them wet is also restricted.
There is no particular rule to not getting the micro braids wet. You definitely can swim, shower, and wash your hair with micro braids. But there are certain things you need to keep in mind regarding this matter.
Micro braids are an excellent braiding style, but also the trickiest to wash. Similar to its name, the style requires micro-level attention and maintenance to stay intact. There are many factors to take care of, and getting your micro braids wet carelessly can cause serious problems to the hair.
The rule of thumb is to wait a few weeks before moving on to wash the braids. Given that your hair is not responding well to the style, you may need to go for a wash earlier than average.
What are micro braids?
Micro braids are the most defined-looking style in the braiding fashion fraternity. They involve small, tight braids that are installed close to the scalp. This style requires minimal daily maintenance and is perfect for anyone with thinning hair or delicate strands.
Most people avoid this style because it takes a long time to install, but the results are well worth it. Micro braids can last up to two months with proper care.
There are different styles of micro braids that are very popular today. Some people choose to keep their hair straight, while others prefer it curly. No matter what your preference is, there is a style of micro braid that will suit you perfectly.
Can you swim with micro braids?
Yes, you definitely can. But you cannot be complacent to clean your micro braids thoroughly after each swim. Pool water contains chlorine and seawater contains salt. None are good for your braids. So, cleaning them is a must with shampoo and conditioner after each dip.
Use a mild shampoo that is easy on its chemical content. Harsh products will add to the problems instead of resolving them.
How do you take care of micro braids?
They require regular maintenance to keep them looking neat and well-groomed. Here are some tips on how to take care of micro braids:
- Weekly Washing: Once you get on with washing your braids, persist with it once a week. Going faster than that could ruin the style.
- Root Nourishment: Apply warm oil to the roots of each braid, or leave-in conditioner every day to keep them soft and comfortable.
- Hydration: Drink a lot of water. It is an undermined, yet great way to keep the scalp hydrated. It will reduce the cause of washing the micro braids as well.
- Avoid excessive tension: Avoid pulling or tugging on your micro braids, as this can cause breakage and damage to your natural hair. Be gentle when styling or tying your hair, and avoid using tight hair accessories that can pull on the braids.
- Sleep with a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase: These materials are gentle on your hair and can help prevent friction and breakage while you sleep. Alternatively, you can also wrap your micro braids with a satin or silk bonnet to protect them overnight.
1. How do you protect micro braids from water?
Go for a swim with a swim cap on, take a shower putting on a shower cap. Enjoy your rinse without damaging your beloved braids.
2. How to wash and deep condition micro braids without slippage?
Use a shampoo and deep conditioner that is not too creamy. The creamy ones will cause the slippage, the firm ones will not.
3. How often should you wash micro braids?
Wait for a month or so after braiding the hair. Wash them after a month, and after that, keep doing it once every week.
4. What kind of shampoo is best for micro braids?
Herbal shampoos are the best as they are mild as well filled with nutrients. But if you manage to find a normal shampoo with less chemical content, that will work fine as well.
FAQs
Box braids are thicker compared to micro braids. Box braids appear heavier whereas micro braids don’t.
Even 2 inches of hair length would do. Micro braids are one of those braided hairstyles that can be done on short hair as well.
Yes, but do it with a shower cap on. Rinsing them at a higher frequency will cause them to unravel. Allow the braids to be wet once a week for cleansing.
Micro braids last for a few weeks. One week is the minimum lasting period, healthy ones can last for up to eight weeks as well.
There is an easy way to take out micro braids. Use a pen or the end of a thin-handled comb to loosen the braided hair. Then slowly detangle them.
It might sound funny, but this is the technique. Wet your micro braids, and sleep on them. This will create a wavy shape.
Crochet braids can be damaged if they get wet. If you don’t dry them properly, the moisture can cause the hair to become frizzy and matted.
There’s no need to worry if your goddess braids get wet, you can try wrapping the braids in a scarf or using a headband to hold them in place or you can let them air dry, use a blowdryer on low heat.
Conclusion
Micro braids are a great style and have every reason to be loved. You need to be dedicated and patient if you really want to flaunt this style. A single bit of complacency can cost you an immense amount of time and energy.
