African braiding techniques developed over 500 years ago in tribal communities, as a way for women and men to distinguish themselves and identify one another. Braid patterns and hairstyles were an indication of a person’s tribe, age, marital status, wealth, power, and religion.

Today, braids, twists, and crochet weaves offer unique and gorgeous protective styling options.

Step 1: Moisturize & Prepare Your Hair 

If your hair is mostly dry, breaks easily, and has a hard time staying moisturized, it’s important to prepare your hair before washing.

First, section your hair into several sections and detangle your hair using a water-based detangling product or oil.

Step 2: Cleanse Your Hair

Next, give your scalp a good scrub using a sulfate-free shampoo. This helps remove all the dirt and any residue that might be left in your hair, so your scalp is fresh and clean for braids. Use apple cider vinegar to close your cuticles and keep moisture in. 

Step 3: Deep Condition Your Hair

Next, deep condition your crown. Allow conditioner to sit in your hair for about 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing it out with cold water. You can also sit under a dryer. This will give your hair strands extra slip and aid the braid installation.

Step 4: Detangle Your Hair

Some of the pain experienced during hair braiding is caused by tangled hair. Therefore, it is important that your hair is thoroughly detangled before all braided hairstyles are done. For braids, finger-detangling your hair is not enough. You should use a medium tooth comb and detangle your hair from the tip, and work your way up to the roots.

Use a blowdryer to aid with the detangling process.

Step 5: Go Get Your Braids

Lastly, one of the most important things you must do is find a good stylist to install your braids (if you are not doing them yourself). Make sure you use someone you can trust to care for your hair, and someone who is experienced with braided hairstyles. Also, do not enlist a hair stylist that is heavy-handed or braids too tightly!

With good installation and proper maintenance, you can rock your protective braided hairstyles for up to six weeks.