How to Protect Your Braids at Night

Box braids, cornrows, and other braids are a beautiful, fun, and expressive way to wear your hair. While these styles are pretty low-maintenance, you may be worried about your hair feeling dry, uncomfortable, or frizzy throughout the...

Method 1 of 2:

Choosing Beneficial Hair Products

Blot nourishing oils along your braid line before bed. Mix 2-3 drops of grapeseed oil, Jamaican black castor oil, and tea tree oil in a small cup. Mix the oils together, then dip your finger into the mixture. Dab it along your hairline where your scalp is exposed, as well as between your braids. As a finishing touch, apply the oil on any visible sections of your scalp beneath your braids. Try to do this on a nightly basis to keep your scalp extra nourished and protected!^{[1] X Research source}
1. This mixture helps nourish your skin and hair, which helps keep your braids healthy and strong throughout the night.
2. You can find these oils at most beauty stores.
3. Ask your hairstylist if they have any product recommendations.
Clean your scalp with a cleanser on a cotton ball. Pour a grape-sized amount of cleanser onto a cotton ball, then blot the shampoo onto your scalp. Let the cleanser sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe it away with a clean cotton ball soaked in warm water. Try to do this every 3 days to keep your braids as strong and healthy as possible.^{[2] X Research source}
1. Taking good care of your braids before bed can prevent build-up in the long run.
Dab anti-itch oil on your scalp so you aren't tempted to scratch. Soak the surface of a clean cotton ball with anti-itch oil. Dab the mixture onto any exposed areas of your scalp, especially any areas that are irritating or itchy. Try to do this every 2 days to keep your scalp feeling soothed before bed.^{[3] X Research source}
1. This also prevents you from scratching or picking at your braids, which can damage them.
2. You can find anti-itch oil online, or at most beauty supply stores.
3. Don't overdo it with this oil—ideally, you want to coat your scalp without soaking your braids.
Spritz your scalp with anti-itch spray and conditioner. Spray the surface of your braids with a soothing, anti-itch conditioner. For extra protection, spritz this product over your scalp, as well. Feel free to use this spray whenever your braids feel a bit dry.^{[4] X Research source}
1. This spray helps reduce the temptation for you to scratch your braids, which may hurt them.
2. You can find this product online, or at a beauty supply store.

Method 2 of 2:

Using Special Fabric to Protect Your Braids

Wrap a scarf around your braids before going to bed. Use a large, 40 by 40 in (100 by 100 cm) to completely cover your braids, which can prevent unwanted friction and frizziness in your hair overnight.^{[5] X Research source} You can also use a 'sock-style' scarf, which goes over your braids like a sock or pillowcase. For this type of scarf, it's easier to tie your braids over your head before sliding the scarf into place.^{[6] X Research source}
1. You can find these types of scarves online, or at certain clothing retailers.
Use a special bandana wrap and scarf if your braids are especially thick and long. If you have 5-6 long, coiled braids, it may hurt and put strain on your scalp to tie them up in a traditional silk scarf. Instead, use a large, square silk scarf with 2 long ties. Place the large square of silk along the back of your neck, then secure the 2 ties on top of your head.^{[7] X Research source}
1. You can purchase this type of scarf online.
2. If you aren't sure about the best way to cover your hair, ask your hairstylist for recommendations!
Sleep on a satin pillowcase each night. Visit your local home goods store and look for a satin pillowcase to use instead of a material like cotton. When your braids rub against a cotton pillowcase overnight, they may look frizzy in the morning. Making the switch to satin helps keep your braids looking fresh and beautiful each morning.^{[8] X Research source}