A friend who kept her hair in micro box braids most of the year and her hair was noticeably longer when she let her hair down to breathe. I begged my mother for box braids because I thought they would help make my hair grow faster but I didn’t get the same result.
Braids do not make hair grow faster but they can increase length retention helping you to reach your desired length. Braiding natural hair helps to prevent breakage. Braids that are too tight, or require the hair to be heavily manipulated can actually damage your hair and cause breakage.
Best Braids for Hair Growth
Low manipulations styles are the best for natural hair growth. Medium to Larger Braids that last two to three weeks are the best way to use braids for natural hair growth.
Swith up the styles to avoid parting in the same places.
Protect Your Edges! Sometimes I would leave the braiding salon and have to take an aspirin. I would try everything to loosen my hair up My hair was so tight especially around the edges
Increase Growth by Reducing Breakage when Installing and Removing Braids
Have you ever left braids in and they look as if they are floating about an inch above your scalp? You can literally see new growth, but your hair looks the same length or shorter when you are done taking down your braids? This was part of my problem.
Start on Clean Hair. Since you will be tucking your hair away, start on clean moisturized hair. Wash your hair using a clarifying shampoo (especially if you are going from one braided style directly into another braided style). Some braided styles can take almost an entire day, so it is okay if you was a day or two in advance.
Moisturize your hair with a deep conditioner and using the LOC method. Try to use heat when possible. I know the wash day is getting long, however, remember you will be giving your hair a break so a little work upfront won’t hurt ; ).
Reduce the amount of manipulation when installing and removing your braids.
Gently remove product buildup. When wearing braids for an extended time, sometimes there is buildup near the scalp. Using an oil to gently loosen the buildup before combing can help prevent breakage.
Be careful when removing extentions don’t cut your hair.
A Real-Life Example of the Magic of Braids for Growth
I would never leave a protective style in for 3 months. I lean more toward low manipulation styles that I can restyle every two to three weeks. I disagree that longer is better, but there are some good tips in this video.