How long does it take for braids to stop hurting?

Braiding your hair is a great way of rocking different styles, and that too with protecting your hair. One can braid their hair in various braiding styles like box braids, faux braids, bohemian braids & feed in braids, etc. You can get braids from anywhere, but it usually involves one problem. The braids hurt from the scalp after you got them. So many people question, how long does it take for braids to stop hurting?

It usually takes one to two days for the braids to stop hurting. The braids hurt due to the tight braiding from the roots. 

Let’s get to know more about the reasons & duration of hurting braids & even how to get relief of the pain. 

How long does it take for braids to loosen up?

It usually takes between one to two days for the braids to loosen up. This actually happens when braids are being plaited & the hairstylist pulls the hair tightly from the scalp & makes the braids. 

Hairstylists or artists do it to increase the life of braids & keep the braids on for a long time. However, if the braids are plated loosely, then the hair will start to come out in just 1-2 days. 

So you can wait for one or two days & the braids will loosen up & you will relieve. 

Quick Link: how often should you get your hair trimmed

Is it normal for braids to hurt? 

Yes! It is normal for braids to hurt & this is due to braids being plaited too tightly. Hairstylists & hair artists actually do it to keep the braids one for a long time & increase the life of braids. But if they’re hurting too much, then it is not right.

Sometimes the braids also hurt when one gets artificial hair of too long length on the short hair. So the tension of these hair comes on the hair & at last the scalp. In this case, it is not normal for the braids to hurt. So try to avoid too long & textured artificial hair for braiding. 

How to relieve pain from tight braids? 

To alleviate pain from tight braids, try these remedies:

Gentle Scalp Massage

Gentle scalp massage is a simple yet effective technique to alleviate discomfort caused by tight braids. Using the fingertips, apply light pressure and circular motions across the scalp. This promotes increased blood circulation to the affected areas, helping to relax tense muscles and reduce inflammation. The massage not only enhances the overall comfort of your scalp but also contributes to a sense of relaxation and well-being.

Additionally, the improved blood flow encourages better nutrient delivery to the hair follicles, promoting overall hair health. Make sure to perform the massage with care, avoiding excessive force or pulling, as the goal is to soothe rather than exacerbate any discomfort. Incorporating this practice into your routine can be a valuable self-care measure, providing relief and fostering a healthier scalp environment.

Moisturize Your Scalp

Moisturizing your scalp is a vital step in alleviating discomfort associated with tight braids. When hair is braided tightly, it can lead to dryness and irritation of the scalp. To counteract this, use a lightweight, hydrating scalp moisturizer or oil. Apply the product evenly to your scalp, focusing on the areas where the braids may be causing the most tension. Choose products containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera or tea tree oil, known for their calming properties.

This moisturizing step not only helps to relieve dryness and itching but also nourishes the scalp and hair roots. Ensure that the product is applied in moderation, avoiding excessive greasiness, and consider doing this as part of your regular hair care routine to maintain a healthy balance of moisture and prevent discomfort associated with tight braids.

Warm Compress

Using a warm compress is a beneficial method to ease discomfort from tight braids. Begin by soaking a clean cloth in warm water, ensuring it’s not too hot to avoid burns. Gently wring out excess water and place the warm compress on your scalp, focusing on the areas where the braids feel tight. The warmth helps to relax the scalp muscles, reduce tension, and increase blood flow, promoting a soothing effect. This technique is particularly effective in alleviating headaches or soreness associated with tightly braided hair.

Allow the warm compress to rest on your scalp for 10-15 minutes, repeating as needed. It’s a simple yet effective way to provide relief and enhance the overall comfort of your scalp when dealing with the strain caused by tight braids.

Loosen the Braids

Loosening the braids is a practical approach to alleviate discomfort caused by tight styling. If you feel excessive tension or soreness, gently adjust the tightness of individual braids or sections. Carefully unraveling or slightly pulling on the braids helps to relieve pressure on the scalp. Be cautious not to pull too hard or create additional stress on your hair strands.

This allows for improved circulation and reduced strain on the scalp, promoting a more comfortable experience. If you notice persistent discomfort, consider consulting with a professional stylist who can make necessary adjustments to the braids, ensuring a balance between style and your scalp’s well-being. Regularly checking and adjusting the tension of your braids demonstrates a proactive approach to maintaining both the longevity of your hairstyle and the health of your scalp.

Pain Relievers

Using pain relievers can be a helpful strategy for managing discomfort caused by tight braids. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Follow the recommended dosage instructions on the medication packaging and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or existing health conditions. It’s important to use pain relievers as a temporary solution while addressing the root cause of the discomfort, such as adjusting the tightness of braids or incorporating other soothing measures.

Remember to stay hydrated and avoid relying solely on medication—combining pain relievers with lifestyle adjustments like gentle scalp massages and moisturizing can contribute to a more comprehensive and effective approach to relieving pain from tight braids.

Aloe Vera Gel

Applying aloe vera gel is a natural and soothing remedy for alleviating discomfort caused by tight braids. Known for its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties, aloe vera gel provides relief to an irritated scalp. Gently massage a small amount of aloe vera gel onto the affected areas, ensuring even distribution. The gel not only helps reduce inflammation but also moisturizes the scalp, addressing dryness associated with tightly braided hair.

Aloe vera’s healing properties make it an excellent choice for calming redness and promoting a more comfortable experience. Incorporating aloe vera gel into your scalp care routine can serve as a gentle and effective measure to enhance the overall health and comfort of your scalp when dealing with the strain from tight braids.

Avoid Tight Styles

Choosing to avoid tight styles is a preventive and practical measure to minimize discomfort associated with braids. Opt for looser braiding techniques or hairstyles that don’t exert excessive tension on the scalp. Tight styles can lead to soreness, headaches, and even damage to the hair follicles. Embracing more relaxed hairstyles allows your scalp to breathe and reduces the risk of irritation. Communicate with your stylist about your preference for looser braids to strike a balance between style and comfort. Additionally, alternating between tight and loose styles can give your scalp a break and prevent prolonged strain.

Prioritizing hair health over extreme tightness ensures a more enjoyable and sustainable experience with braided hairstyles, allowing you to showcase your unique style without compromising your well-being.

For More- A Comprehensive Hair Extensions Guide For Beginners (2023)

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the duration for braids to alleviate discomfort typically spans 2-7 days. The key lies in patience and conscientious care. Employing gentle scalp massages, avoiding overly tight styles, and incorporating soothing products can expedite relief. It’s crucial to listen to your body; if pain persists, seeking advice from a professional stylist ensures a healthy balance between style and comfort. Remember, beautiful braids should enhance your look, not compromise your well-being. By understanding the natural process of adjustment and adopting these helpful practices, you can embark on a stylish journey with the confidence that your braids will not only look fabulous but also feel comfortable, allowing you to embrace the beauty of diverse hairstyles without sacrificing your scalp’s health.

FAQs

Can I speed up the process of relieving braid pain?

Gentle scalp massages, avoiding tight hairstyles, and using a soothing scalp spray can help.

Are there products to alleviate braid discomfort?

Yes, using a numbing cream or applying aloe vera gel can provide relief.

Should I remove braids if they hurt too much?

If pain persists, consider consulting a stylist to adjust the tension or remove braids to prevent scalp damage.