How to keep goddess braids from tangling?

1. Implement a regular detangling and refreshing curls routine

Detangling and refreshing your curls is essential to prolong the life of your goddess braids and keep them looking good for longer.

How to detangle goddess braids:
Apply a slip product such as a leave-in conditioner or a mix of water and conditioner. Then, gently separate the tangles with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Afterwards, revive the curl by twirling it around your finger.

For a more detailed step-by-step guide check out our post on how to refresh goddess braids curls.

2. Implement a regular wash routine

Keeping your braids clean not only makes them look better but also keeps your natural hair healthy. Excess product build-up, sweat, and dirt can cause itchiness and irritation, so it's important to wash your hair and keep your scalp clean.

When washing, section your braids to make it easier to apply your product evenly and avoid missing parts of your scalp. Always massage shampoo with your fingertips in gentle circular motions to prevent frizz. For a step-by-step guide check out our post on how to wash goddess braids.

3. Wrap your hair before bed

Friction is one of the main culprits of frizz and tangles. When you sleep the friction between your pillow and hair can cause your hair to tangle and frizz. Protect your braids at night by wrapping your braids in a silk headscarf or wearing a silk bonnet before bed. You can also sleep on a silk pillowcase for extra protection, in case your headscarf or bonnet falls off. Silk helps retain moisture better than cotton, reducing frizz and breakage.

4. Opt for human hair

Synthetic hair is more prone to tangling and is harder to manage than human hair. Since goddess braids usually feature a lot of loose curls, many prefer using human hair for a more natural look and easier maintenance. However, the downside is that human hair can be expensive. If human hair is out of your budget, consider using synthetic hair for the braids and human hair just for the curls.

5. Take out your braids in time

Even with regular maintenance and care, all braids have a lifespan. Eventually, they’ll start to look worn out and tangle more easily. They also need to be taken down for the health of your natural hair. But how long should you keep goddess braids in? Your braids should ideally be removed within 4-6 weeks to prevent breakage and damage to your natural hair. Check out our post on how to take out braids without breakage for a full guide, or explore our professional protective style removal services if you’d prefer help from an expert. Once you’ve taken your braids out, treat your natural hair to some TLC. Read our guide on how to care for your hair after taking out braids to learn more.