Hey curlfriend, Let’s have some real talk about something many of us have faced but don’t speak enough about; braid-induced edge breakage.
We all love a good braided style, right? They’re beautiful, protective, and save us time in the morning. But if your edges are thinning, breaking, or straight-up disappearing after every protective style… we need to have a conversation. Because braids should protect your hair, not harm it.
So today, I’m going to walk you through:
- How to properly install braids without risking your edges
- How to care for your braids once they’re in
- How to nourish and maintain your edges throughout the style
Let’s protect that hairline, sis.
Why Your Edges Are Breaking in the First Place
Your edges are made of baby hairs and fine strands, meaning they’re more fragile than the rest of your hair. Tension, dryness, and product buildup can weaken them faster than you realize.
Here are the most common causes of braid-induced edge breakage:
- Braids that are too tight
- Heavy hair extensions that weigh down your strands
- Neglecting to moisturize your edges
- Constant tugging or styling (high buns, tight ponytails)
- Not protecting your edges at night
Step 1: Prepping Your Hair for Braids (Including Your Edges)
Prepping your hair before getting braids is just as important as the style itself.
1. Cleanse + Moisturize
Start with a clean scalp and moisturized strands so your hair is strong going into the style.
- Shampoo: Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo like
Carol’s Daughter Coco Creme Curl Quenching Shampoo with Coconut Oil and Mango Butter - Deep Condition: Focus on moisture + strength.
Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask and Deep Conditioner for Dry or Damaged Hair is a great option for dry 4C strands. - Moisturize and seal: to moisturize the hair before installing the braids. Go for moisturizing leave-in conditioner and an oil to seal in the moisture. Go for Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In Hair Conditioner for moisturizing and Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Scalp and Hair Oil for moisture sealing and scalp massages.
Step 2: Installing Braids Without Breaking Your Edges
Whether you’re DIY-ing or seeing a stylist, here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Do Not Let Anyone Braid Too Tight
Tight braids might look clean, but they’re a trap for breakage. If you feel pulsing or soreness at your edges, that’s your scalp telling you “this is too much.”
Be firm with your stylist, your edges come first. Ask them to:
- Use minimal tension around the hairline
- Skip braiding your very front baby hairs
- Use smaller sections with less added hair near your edges
2. Use Lightweight Hair Extensions
Heavy braids tug on your roots and weaken the follicle.
Go for lightweight, pre-stretched braiding hair like:
RUWA Pre-Stretched Braiding Hair
or
X-Pression Ultra Braid
These are lighter on the scalp and easier to manage.
3. Consider Knotless Braids
Knotless braids start with your natural hair, then slowly feed in the extensions. This puts less tension on your scalp especially at the hairline and still looks just as gorgeous.
Step 3: Caring for Your Edges While Wearing Braids
Once your braids are in, the work isn’t over. If you want your edges to survive and thrive, you have to care for them consistently.
1. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Edges get dry fast and need hydration like the rest of your hair.
Try using a light, water-based spray or mist every 2–3 days:
- Maui Moisture Frizz-Free + Shea Butter Leave-in Conditioning Mist
- Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave In Conditioner
Follow up with a sealant like castor oil or a light butter.
2. Avoid Daily Styling on the Hairline
Constant styling = constant pulling = edge stress.
Instead of gelling your edges every day, try doing it just 1–2 times a week. Let your baby hairs rest. You’re still beautiful without swoops.
If you do lay your edges, choose an alcohol-free, nourishing edge gel:
3. Sleep with a Satin Scarf or Bonnet
This protects both your edges and the style. Cotton pillowcases pull moisture and snag fine strands. If you don’t like bonnets, at least sleep on a satin pillowcase.
Try:
YANIBEST satin bonnet or Bedsure Natural Silk Pillowcase
Step 4: Taking Down Braids Without Damaging Your Edges
You can do everything right during your install and still lose hair when it’s time to take them out. So be gentle, patient, and moisturized.
How to Remove Braids Properly:
- Use a slippery leave-in or detangling spray to soften buildup.
Try: African Pride Moisture Miracle Pre-Shampoo Hair Detangler - Detangle with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, never yank.
- Once braids are out, clarify your scalp, deep condition, and give your edges a break before installing another style.
Extra Edge-Saving Tips
- Scalp massages help increase circulation to stimulate growth.
Use your fingertips or a scalp massager tool like this and use growth stimulating oils. - Edge scarves help lay your edges gently while protecting them overnight or during workouts.
- Give your hairline a break: Take at least 2 weeks between braided styles to allow your edges to bounce back.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to choose between cute braids and healthy edges. You can have both if you prioritize your hair’s health every step of the way.
So the next time you get ready for braids, remember:
- Prep your hair and scalp.
- Never let anyone braid too tight.
- Moisturize and protect daily.
- Remove your braids with love and patience.
Your edges are part of your crown. Treat them like royalty.
