Braids are a go-to protective style for many with natural hair, offering both convenience and style.
But what happens when your fresh braids come with an unwelcome side effect: a relentlessly itchy scalp?
If you’ve found yourself scratching days, or even hours, after getting braided up, you’re not alone. Here’s why it happens and how to find real relief.
- Tight tension at the root
One of the most common causes of itchy braids is tension. If your stylist installed the braids too tightly, the excessive pulling can irritate your scalp. This can lead to inflammation, itchiness, and in severe cases, traction alopecia (hair loss caused by tension). If the tightness is unbearable, don’t wait—go back to your stylist to loosen the braids or remove them altogether.
- Product buildup and dryness
A dry scalp is an itchy scalp. If you didn’t moisturize or cleanse your scalp before getting braided, buildup from oils, sweat, and old products can get trapped. Add in limited access to regular scalp washing once the braids are in, and irritation becomes more likely.
- Synthetic hair sensitivity
Many people experience scalp irritation due to an allergic reaction to the alkaline coating found on synthetic braiding hair. This coating is used to preserve the hair during shipping but can cause intense itching and redness. To prevent this, soak synthetic hair in apple cider vinegar and water before use to neutralize the chemicals.
- Scalp adjustment period
Sometimes, your scalp just needs time to adjust to the change in weight and tension from new braids. This adjustment period usually lasts a few days and resolves on its own if other issues aren’t present.
How to soothe it
• Use scalp sprays with tea tree oil, peppermint, or aloe to calm inflammation and hydrate.
• Avoid scratching, which can cause sores or scabs. Pat or tap the itchy area instead.
• Keep your scalp clean using a diluted witch hazel solution or a no-rinse scalp cleanser.
• Moisturize regularly with a light oil or braid spray that won’t clog pores.Understanding the root of the itch makes it easier to treat—and even easier to prevent before your next braid appointment.
