Braids are one of our most popular services - a go to protective hairstyle for afro-textured hair, but knowing how to remove them safely is just as important as putting them in. Improperly taking out braids can lead to breakage, tangling, and damage, setting back your hair growth journey. We offer a take down service for those who don’t have the time (or patience) themselves.
But if you’d rather DIY , in this guide, we'll walk you through the best practices for taking out braids, ensuring your natural hair stays strong and healthy. From detangling techniques to moisturising tips, we cover everything you need to safely undo braids without causing harm. Whether you have box braids, cornrows, or twists, follow these expert tips to maintain healthy, beautiful afro hair even after your braids are out.
Step 1 - Cut the bottom of your braids, just below where your natural hair is.
Don’t apply leave-in to your hair in the braid as this can make it harder for you to detangle your hair from the braid.
Step 2 - Once you’ve cut the bottom, use the end of a rat tail comb to unravel the braid starting from the bottom. Be gentle and don’t tug on your hair as this can cause damage. Work through any knots gently and take your time.
Work to take your hair down in 4 quarters so you will have two sections on each side of your head as this makes the process easier when it comes to time management and detangling.
Step 3 - Once you’ve finished one quarter, take this section and gently detangle it combing out with a wide toothed comb from the tip of your to the root.
Step 4 - Once you’ve done your first detangle then apply a little conditioner to this section (about 2 pence amount) and smooth this in from the top of your hair to the tips. Then detangle again from tip to roots. The conditioner will help breakdown any build-up and makes detangling easier. Once this is done two strand twist this section and repeat for the other 3 sections.
Step 5 - Once all sections are out of the braids it’s time to wash your hair; to avoid it tangling you may want to wash your hair in the four sections they are in. First start wit a clarifying shampoo, which will work to thoroughly clean through all of the build up accumulated with hair being in braids - be sure to pay close attention to your scalp. Rinse and then follow with a moisturising shampoo and focus this mainly on your hair. Once you’ve rinsed your second shampoo out then apply a treatment mask to help with hydration and conditioning.
Comments