Avoid These Braid Mistakes at Your Next Hair Appointment

Braids—whether it's knotless or boho styles—are one of those go-to hairstyles we can't get enough of, and it's easy to see why. They're not just functional, but super versatile too. You can play around with colors for a bold, unique look, experiment with different styles, and even choose the perfect length that fits your vibe. And when you add a little extra artistry to the mix? That’s when the real magic happens!?

Most of us like to keep our braids in for about 3 to 6 weeks before taking them down. But if you want them to stay looking fresh and neat for as long as possible, there are a few things to keep in mind—and some common mistakes to avoid at your next salon visit!?

Not prepping your hair properly: Before your next salon visit, a good rule of thumb is to make sure your hair is not just clean, but also well-conditioned and hydrated. High-quality conditioning products like the Elan Hair Cream will help lock in that much-needed moisture, keeping dryness and brittleness at bay. One tip: always detangle your hair before washing to minimize breakage and make the process smoother.?

Using poor-quality fibers: Using poor-quality fiber is a no-go! When you run your fingers through the attachment, it should feel smooth and refined, not rough or coarse. Low-quality fibers not only shorten the lifespan of your braids but also affect how they look and feel. And let’s be honest—no one wants braids they can’t confidently flaunt! The ideal fibers, like our Aviv Extensions, are lightweight, tangle-free, and have that fine texture that makes your braids stand out and last longer.

Keeping tight braids: Not only are tight braids uncomfortable, but they can also give you headaches and cause serious damage to your scalp and hair. You should never feel like you have to "manage" tight braids until the pain goes away. That's a mistake many people make, thinking the discomfort will eventually fade. Don’t be one of them! The truth is, your scalp is delicate, and if you can’t enjoy your braids pain-free from day one, they’re way too tight. It's always better to speak up and have them adjusted!

Forgetting maintenance: Many people are guilty of neglecting their braids, thinking that just tossing them into a bun counts as care. But if you want your braids to stay fresh and last longer, there are a few simple steps you need to follow. First, always wrap them in a satin scarf or cap before bed to protect them. Spritz sprays and braid maintenance oils are a must — Ozone Hair Oil works wonders for keeping braids looking flawless! Don’t forget to oil your scalp with Elan Hair Oil to keep it hydrated and moisturized too.

If you tend to sweat a lot, consider washing your braids to extend their life. Use warm water and a mild shampoo, gently pat them dry, and then add some shine and hydration with a conditioner and hair oil. Taking these small steps will keep your braids looking salon-fresh for weeks!

Question of the week: What other common mistakes did we leave out? Let us know in the comments!