Scalp and hair require the same level of attention and affection. While you're working on refining your braids, don't forget about your scalp's demands as well.
Here are 4 essential scalp care tips that you can't overlook while wearing extensions or braids.
Tip 1/ Oiling
Pour Some Love Potion to Your Under Braids Scalp
When using hair extensions, oiling is one of the most crucial forms of scalp care. It makes no difference whether you use temporary extensions like virgin clip in hair extensions or permanent ones like sew-in with different braid patterns.
When:
- If you're wearing temporary hair extensions, do it once a week.
- If you enjoy experimenting with new braid patterns & weaves, do it once every 15 days.
How:
- Apply a generous amount of essential hair oil to your scalp and wash it the next morning if you have a dry scalp. You may steam it for some time & wash it with lukewarm water too.
- If you have an oily scalp, oil & massage your hair & scalp thoroughly. Keep for 1-2 hrs & wash.
Tip 2/ Washing
Washing Your Braids Scalps
The type of hair extensions you use will determine how often you wash your hair. However, you must consider if you are using the best product for virgin hair extensions or not. To avoid hair strand shredding and drying, use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
When:
- For protective hairstyles like the under braids or twists, once every 15 days is recommended. If you have a sweaty scalp, instead of washing it frequently, you can use dry shampoo to cope with the greasy and oily scalp.
How:
- If you are using virgin clip in hair extensions, you can remove the clips & wash your natural hair & scalp like normally you would.
- If you're using tape-ins or glue-based hair extensions, apply a sulfate-free shampoo to your scalp and gently rub it with your fingertips to eliminate any product build-ups or grease. Rinse well with cold water.
Tip 3/ Drying
Learn When & How To Dry Your Hair When Using Extensions
It is very important to dry your under braids scalps after washing it. If the scalp is not dry, over time it will emit an unpleasant odor from your hair & scalp.
When:
- Always after washing your head.
- Also keep it dry while working out or sweating using scalp tonic refreshers or dry shampoo.
How:
- To get rid of that obnoxious odor, sit under a dryer for a few minutes and allow your hair thoroughly dry.
- Using a hand-held blow dryer while avoiding direct contact with your hair. Distribute the heat onto your braids/track by blowing.
Tip 4/ DIY For 5 Common Scalp Problems
Easy DIY Scalp Treatments
- Traction Alopecia:- Pick hairstyles that are not excessively tight around the hairline and scalp. Avoid using hot tools and choose pre-styled virgin clip in hair extensions for ready-to-wear hairstyles at a go!
- Mildew:- To help exfoliate the molds and decrease the smell, dilute apple cider vinegar in equal water and apply it to afflicted areas. After 5 minutes, rinse with a light clarifying shampoo.
- Dandruff:- Massage your scalp with lemon juice and essential oils such as coconut or mustard oil blended in a 1:1 ratio to eliminate dandruff while using hair extensions. Rinse with warm water after 20-30 minutes. Use this DIY in-between the wash days or when you switch between different braids ideas to prevent dandruff.
- Oily scalp:- Use a scalp tonic or refresher when the scalp feels oily. If you have a naturally oily scalp, use Rosemary oil to reduce greasiness. You can use dry shampoo & skip wash days alternatively.
- Sore scalps:- If you are experiencing sore scalps after trying out new braid patterns, soothe them by running your head under hot water & cold water for some time. The hot water will open the pores & loosen the tracks. Cold water will soothe the tensions caused by the tightness.
Conclusion
Don't forget to give your hair some love and attention with these simple oiling, washing, and drying rituals, and use the DIY treatments at home to get rid of all your scalp issues!
For additional hair care advice and treatments, go to True Glory Hair. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for some great braid ideas and virgin clip in hair extension bargains!