Have you ever been looking forward to having your braids installed, only for it to itch?

I've been there too sis and we're not alone. Itchy braids are very common and there are many reasons for it. In this guide, I'll break down why braids itch and, more importantly, how to stop braids from itching so you can rock your style in comfort. So let's get right into it!

Why Do Braids Itch?

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s get into the root of the problem. Here are some of the most common reasons your braids might be making your scalp itch:

1. Sensitivity to braiding hair

One of the most common reasons braids itch is due to being sensitive to the extensions. A lot of companies coat their synthetic braiding hair extensions in an alkaline formula to preserve them. Many people, including myself and maybe you, might have had allergic reactions to it causing your braids to itch almost immediately after getting braids.

2. Tight Braids

We all love a neat, long-lasting braid style, but if your hair is braided too tightly, it can put stress on your scalp and lead to itching or even breakage. When your braids are too tight you might see inflammation, redness, notice little bumps around your hairline or feel itchiness and pain. If very severe it can even cause traction alopecia.

3. Product Buildup

Whether its gels, creams or sprays when used over time consistently or if overused, they can accumulate on the scalp, clog your pores and trap dirt. This can cause irritation and make your scalp feel itchy.

4. Dry Scalp

A dry scalp and lack of moisture is one of the biggest culprits of itchy braids. Braids can sometimes make it harder to moisturise your scalp regularly and allow products to distribute evenly. Ensure to keep your scalp moisturised with a lightweight oil to prevent itchiness and flakiness.

How to Stop Braids from Itching

Read below to create the ACV rinse I used for my braids to stop itching.

Rinse the hair BEFORE you take it to your hairstylist.

• STEP 1: Create your mixture
  Start by filling a bowl with hot water and apple cider vinegar (ACV). The ratio should be one part apple cider vinegar to three parts hot water. There should be enough to completely cover one or two packs of hair.
• STEP 2: Let It Soak
  Without separating the hair (don’t remove the rubber bands or try to comb it out), submerge it in the mixture and wait 15 minutes. After a few minutes, the alkaline base will lift from the hair and form a white film on top of the water. Pull it out and rinse it off with some cold water.
• STEP 3: Dry the Hair
  Once you notice the white film, remove the hair from the mixture and allow it to air dry. Don’t worry about the smell, it’ll evaporate once the hair is dry.

But my braids are already installed?! 🙁
If you have already installed the synthetic hair, don't worry, use an ACV rinse as a braid spray to prevent itching.

Here are the steps:

1. Mix 1 part ACV with 3 parts water.
2. Pour the solution into a spray bottle.
3. Spray it directly on your hair and scalp.
4. Let it sit for about an hour and then rinse.

Hope that helps x