So you’ve just spent hours at the salon, getting your hair meticulously braided into a stunning design. You’re excited about your new look, but within a few days, those tiny, stubborn strands of underhair start to sprout.
They poke out of your braids, creating a messy, unfinished appearance. It’s frustrating, and no matter how much you try to tuck them back in, they keep making an unwelcome appearance.
Or picture this scenario: You’re heading out to a special event, and your beautiful braids should be the centre of attention.
However, you can’t help but notice those tiny, persistent hairs escaping from your carefully crafted hairstyle, making you feel less confident and put-together.
These are the real-life challenges many women face after braiding their hair. The emergence of those unwanted underhair strands can turn a fabulous hairdo into a source of annoyance.
It’s a common issue that can affect your overall look and self-esteem. But there’s a solution that can help address these pain points, ensuring your braids look flawless and polished for longer periods.
What factors lead to so much undergrowth hair?
First of all, let us consider some of the factors that lead to a lot of undergrowth hair, and then we can talk about what we should do about it.
Too many short strands of hair
Absolutely, it’s a common problem. When you’re getting your hair braided, it’s essential that your hair strands are long enough to be securely incorporated into the braids.
Here’s where the issue arises: not all of our hair is of the same length. Some of those fine, shorter hairs are just not long enough to be neatly tucked into the braid pattern.
These shorter hairs tend to slip out as they’re not securely held within the braid. They’re like those mischievous rebels that don’t want to follow the crowd.
So, no matter how meticulously your hairstylist works, some of those shorter hairs tend to make a surprise appearance after the braiding process is complete.
Think of it like trying to weave a ribbon through a buttonhole. If the ribbon is too short, it won’t thread through smoothly, and you’ll end up with frayed ends sticking out. It’s a similar situation with these shorter hair strands – they are a bit too shy to stay put.
But don’t worry, there are ways to manage this issue. Keep reading.
The hair is too brittle and therefore breaks a lot during braiding
Hair that is too brittle can be prone to breaking during the braiding process, leading to those frustrating undergrowth hairs.
Hair becomes brittle when it lacks the necessary moisture and strength. The braiding process, while creating those beautiful styles, can sometimes exacerbate the issue of breaking them off because of the tension that builds up in the strands during the process.
Also, when the hair is too brittle, the issue can be worsened during braiding because not all braiders use the gentlest techniques. Inexperienced hands may not handle your hair with the care it needs. This rough handling can also lead to hair damage and breakage.
Practical solutions you can apply to minimize undergrowth hair and keep your braids looking fresh for long
To tackle these issues and prevent undergrowth hair, below are some of the steps you can take and start seeing results on your very next braid.
1. Get your hair strands to even lengths using great products
For a uniform and neat braid style, it’s essential that all hair strands are of similar length. Shorter strands tend to stick out, peeking through the braids, causing the undergrowth appearance. These shorter hairs often create a frizzy and untidy look.
To prevent or minimize undergrowth hair, it’s essential to ensure that your hair is of adequate length before braiding. If some sections or strands of your hair are too short, you should consider protective styles or extensions until those strands grow to the desired length.
Before braiding, it’s crucial to ensure your hair is well-protected and in good condition. Without proper care, hair can be more fragile. That’s why many haircare experts recommend conditioning and strengthening your hair or constantly treating it with great products that keep it strong and moisturised before braiding.
In order to achieve that effectively, it’s important to maintain a healthy hair care routine. Regular deep conditioning treatments, moisturizing, and minimizing excessive tension during the braiding process are key steps.
2. Use a scarf to keep the hair in position and avoid movement that leads to the pulling out of some hair
Using a scarf can be a simple yet effective way to keep freshly braided hair in place and minimize the chances of hair getting pulled out, which can lead to undergrowth hairs.
Why a scarf Helps:
- Minimizing Friction: When you’ve just had your hair braided, the strands can be quite fragile. They’re in a new configuration, and the hair and scalp need time to adjust. Wearing a scarf provides a protective layer, reducing friction between your hair and other surfaces like your pillow or clothing. This minimizes the chances of hair getting caught and pulled out.
- Preventing Loose Strands: Scarves are excellent at keeping your hair neat and secured. They can help to hold the braids in place and prevent individual strands from coming loose or slipping out. Loose strands are more likely to become tangled and damaged, contributing to the development of undergrowth hair.
- Preserving Your Style: We all know how much effort and time go into braiding. Using a scarf to protect your braided style ensures that it lasts longer and looks as good as it did on day one. Without a scarf, your hair can start to look frizzy and dishevelled, making undergrowth hairs more noticeable.
Use a gel to help keep the hair down and prevent pulling out
Using a gel is another fantastic method to keep your hair down and prevent pulling that can lead to undergrowth hairs. Here’s why it works:
The Magic of Hair Gel:
- Smooth, Sleek Finish: Hair gel is designed to provide hold and control, which is perfect for keeping your freshly braided hair in place. When applied correctly, it delivers a smooth, sleek finish that tames flyaway hairs and keeps your braids neatly aligned.
- Reduced Friction: When hair is secured with gel, it becomes less prone to friction or snagging. This means fewer chances of hair getting caught on fabrics, pillowcases, or even your own fingers. Reduced friction helps maintain the integrity of your braids.
- Preventing Loose Strands: Just like a scarf, hair gel helps to prevent individual strands from coming loose. It acts as a protective barrier, holding the braids together and ensuring that they remain intact.
In conclusion, the hair will surely grow and develop some undergrowth with time but using these tips can help you keep it looking fresh for a longer period of time.
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