It seems the people in our industry no longer agree on how long you keep
braid extensions in. It was a well known fact that braids lasted a certain amount of time depending on the one chosen. However, these days the information being circulated is different according to which stylist you visit!
Here are the recommended times hairstylists used for braids before 2020:
Type of braid
- Cornrows (natural hair)
- Cornrows (with extensions)
- Single Braids With Extensions
- Braids for under wigs
- Micro braids
Recommended Wear Time
- One to two weeks
- Two to three weeks
- One to two months
- One to two weeks (usually not with extensions)
- Three months or they will start locking
The use of braiding gel has made it easier for stylists to make the cleaner, tighter partings. This gel adds
shine and stays in place. The problem that came from this was stylists applying so much gel it changed the answer for “how long can you keep braid extensions in”. People started keeping styles in for weeks/months longer.
The fallout of these longer times has been people having severe dandruff issues. Depending on how long
the client has been braiding, the time to clear up this issue can take a week or months.
Call (613) 789-2179 For An Appointment If You Are In The Ottawa, Ontario Area.
My advice for stylists is to be careful on the amount of gel being used when braiding and the times they recommend clients when asked “how long can you keep braid extensions in”.
By Paula Barker, Silkie Locks Hair Design
Books: “Talking Hair”, “Filling My Head” & “Dreadlocks – A Hairstylist’s Manifest”.
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