Do braids, cornrows, and dreadlocks itch? What to do if they itch
Hello
I'm Lily, a braider (who makes braids and dreadlocks) in Aichi Prefecture.
Today we'll be answering a question we often hear: "Do braids, cornrows, and dreadlocks cause itching?"
I would like to explain in detail the causes of itching and how to deal with it.
▪️Do braids, cornrows, and dreadlocks really itch?
In conclusion, it depends on the person!
To be honest, I don't feel any itching at all, but some customers say it's very itchy.
When I look at the customers, I wonder if it has something to do with their constitution, but I think it's mostly a matter of getting used to it.
▪️Causes of itching
①Hairstyle
Comparing dreads, braids, and cornrows, I feel like cornrows are the most likely to cause itching.
If you always wear cornrows and find them itchy, you might want to try braids!
②The first one is the most itchy!
Many people say that the most itchy time is when the knitting is stiff and just starting.
"It was so itchy I took it off right away."
I sometimes hear this, but the tightness of the knitted knitting goes away after a few days, so I think it would be a shame to take it off just because of the itchiness!
If it's caused by tightness, it may be a good idea to shampoo your hair early to loosen it up a bit.
③Frequency and type of shampoo
If your hair is a little looser but you're still itchy, it may be because you're not shampooing frequently enough.
The appropriate frequency for shampooing varies from person to person, so it's difficult to generalize.
If you have straight hair and oily skin, we recommend shampooing every 2-3 days, and if you have curly hair and dry skin, we recommend shampooing once a week.
I haven't washed it in a month!
If you say so, wash it.
Regarding the types of shampoo, shampoos that are readily available in Japan are designed for people with straight hair who wash their hair every day.
Even if you don't use a shampoo specifically for braiding hair, choosing a non-silicone shampoo, a scalp care shampoo, or a shampoo that is gentle on the skin and suitable for babies may help alleviate the itching.
・Recommended shampoo for braiding hair・
n haircare cosmetics
The ultimate cooling shampoo! This shampoo is specifically designed for braiding hair to combat itchiness.
It comes out as foam so it's easy to use!
Jambo hair care products
UPOLE/PROTECTIVE HAIRCARE CLEANSING
SHAMPOO
This shampoo is specifically designed to help braided hair last longer.
Recommended for those who don't like cool sensations
It has a strong cleansing power and is silicone-free , so I think it helps with itching. I use it regularly, and even though it has a strong cleansing power, it doesn't make my skin feel tight and leaves me feeling very refreshed.
・Although it is not for braiding hair, this shampoo is one I personally recommend.
Carbonated shampoo cleans pores without leaving skin feeling tight
Curel Shampoo
Gentle shampoo for sensitive skin
4. Itching caused by styling products
Styling products for braids and cornrows are gentle on the skin and often cause no problems for the scalp.
When using gel or perm mousse at home, some people may experience itching as it does not suit their skin.
Commercially available gels and perm mousses are not designed to be applied to the scalp, so be careful when using them in place of styling mousse for braids.
Also, I feel like many people actually get itchy from styling mousses for braids that are sold overseas.
When using gel or mousse at home, be careful not to get too much on your scalp.
We also often receive inquiries about dry shampoo causing itching.
Dry shampoos sold in Japan are designed to be washed off on the same day.
Many products contain a lot of fragrances and are designed to mask odors, making them unsuitable for braiding hair.
・Recommended dry shampoo for braiding hair・
braided bonds fresh rock mousse
A dry shampoo for braids, cornrows, and dreadlocks created together with our customers and followers.
This product was created for the purpose of odor control, but it also contains many ingredients that are effective against itching, so even if you apply it thoroughly to your scalp, it won't cause itching. In fact, we were particular about the fact that it can also help prevent itching.
It's also light to wear, so it's popular with people who don't like the feeling of it sticking to their scalp.
I know it may not be suitable for everyone's skin, but I hope it will help you even a little.
It also contains plenty of moisturizing ingredients, so it can also help with itching caused by dryness.
⑤Itching due to dryness
Braiding hair can make it more breathable and dry for some people.
Also, people with curly hair tend to have dry scalps, so braiding makes it easier to apply moisturizer.
You can use the Fresh Rock Mousse I mentioned earlier, or you can use a moisturizer that suits your skin type.
It's easy to forget to moisturize your scalp, but be especially mindful of this in the winter and after shampooing.
Thank you for reading to the end!
I post videos on how to care for my braids on Instagram @lily_r.braids
If you have any questions, please contact us on Instagram!