Tips on how to maintain your cornrows to last longer

Joan Kibugi

May 2, 2018 11:21 AM

Nothing says unkempt like old dirty braids

It’s one thing to get

Braiding hair is not a cheap affair. Most of us want to braid hair and have the cornrows on for at least a month or so. But in most cases, after two weeks, the roots start getting old, cornrows start getting frizzy and having fly aways. The scalp also starts getting flaky and dirt may start to build up at the edges and it’s not a pretty sight.

Nothing says broke and unkempt like old dirty braids lol. But it doesn’t have to be that way ladies. There are some tips on how to take care of your cornrows so that they can last a little bit longer without you looking like you’re a hobo.

Here’s how to take care of your cornrows:

1. Constantly moisturize your scalp.

Before getting your cornrows done, wash your hair and deep moisturize it. To moisturize your scalp, use a sprinkler, and LIGHTLY sprinkle water on to the scalp, in between the cornrows not on the actual cornrows and gently tap or rub with your fingers to make the water settle. This will prevent dryness of the scalp. You could also use leave in conditioner in between your cornrows.

2. Oil your hair.

Use natural oils such as peppermint, castor or coconut oil and apply in between the cornrows. Do go easy on the oil though especially if your scalp naturally produces oil.

ALSO READ: 4 common things you do that make your hair unhealthy

3. Protect your hair while sleeping.

Either go for a satin scarf or satin pillow to ensure that the oils on your hair aren’t sucked dry. Wear a bonnet while sleeping to prevent fly aways and frizzy hair.

4. Remove the flake on your scalp.

You can do this with the help of hair moose or a wet towel, by gently rubbing the hair in the direction of the cornrows.

5. Avoid styles that put strain on your scalp.

6. Do not keep the cornrows for over six weeks.

Also, after you take them out, allow your hair to breathe before getting new conrows.