Keep your braids clean and comfortable.
Reach the scalp and allow time to dry.

Know what can get wet

Ask your installer whether the whole style can be washed, including any loose curls or sealed ends. Confirm which shampoo and drying method to use. Save those answers with the name of the added hair so you can check them before wash day.

Allow for drying after the shower

Water can remain near the roots and inside overlapping braids after the outside feels dry. Wash when you can leave the lengths loose afterward. If air-drying takes longer than you have, ask for a drying setup that works with your added hair.

Shampoo is hard to rinse from the back

• Support the wet lengths so they don’t tug.
• Gently move them aside to let rinse water reach the nape and behind your ears.
• If those areas are beyond your reach, arrange help with rinsing instead of adding more shampoo.

Some braids are still damp

• Let the lengths hang separately instead of bunching them into a bun.
• Check near the roots, behind the ears and inside overlapping lengths.
• Keep drying any damp areas before putting on a bonnet or covering.
• Ask for another drying method if this repeatedly takes too long.

The lengths catch on straps and chairs

• Move the braids clear before putting on a bag or sitting down.
• If they snag, stop and free them with your hands before moving away.
• Wear them loose or in a low, slack tie.
• Undo the tie if it pulls at the roots.

Use shampoo you can rinse out thoroughly

For a washable style, use the shampoo your installer recommended. Work gently along the accessible scalp parts with your finger pads. Rinse each area thoroughly. Use the bottle’s amount and repeat-wash instructions rather than adding more to make extra foam.

Browse cleansing products. Bring the shampoos you are choosing between to the consultation, along with what you liked or disliked about them.

Use leave-in only where it is needed

If your own lengths feel dry, ask which leave-in you can use with this added hair and where to apply it. Start with the recommended small amount. Skip extra shine sprays if they leave the braids coated or make the next wash harder.

Browse leave-in conditioners. The consultation considers your current conditioner and styling products before recommending a leave-in.

1. Wash the scalp without pulling the braids

Use this illustrated method for securely installed braids or twists that can be washed. It separates wetting, scalp cleansing and rinsing, with support for the hanging lengths. Wigs, weaves, glued attachments and styles that readily unravel need their own wash method.

2. Blot, separate and check for damp areas

This no-heat method shows each drying action. Use it when your style can air-dry and you have enough time. Keep the roots slack as you blot, then leave the braids loose until the roots and inner lengths are dry.

Signs that need more than routine care

• If the installation hurts or stings, contact the installer promptly to have the pulling released safely. Persistent soreness, sores, crusts or new bare areas need a medical professional. Don’t wait until the planned takedown to ask for help with these changes.