March 2016 www.womanthismonth.com 54 JOZ SALON & SPA MANAGING MICRO BRAIDS If you can carry it off, micro braids are one of the coolest looking hairstyles. However, there is a lot of care that goes into maintaining these plaits. Micro Braids, also known as mini-braids or invisible braids, are a popular look for many African-Caribbean women and some men as well. Many consider this style to be highmaintenance, with importance placed on hair care not only while you have the braids in, but also before and after removing them. Joz Salon & Spa tells you how to prep your hair for this style. Caring for Hair Prior to Micro Braiding Determine if your hair is healthy enough for doing this. If your tresses are already damaged, then you should concentrate on making them as healthy as possible first. Get a hot oil treatment to help moisturise and replenish damaged hair. Performing this treatment once a week for several weeks, prior to getting your braids, is a common recommendation for healthier locks from the start. Moisturise your hair by using a deep conditioner from label.m; trim to get rid of any split ends that may exist; and then make sure showcase your hair is long enough for micro braiding. Finally, shampoo and condition thoroughly before getting your braids done. Caring for Hair While Micro Braided Follow the advice received from your stylist. If you have any questions, be sure you fully understand how to care for micro braids both while you have them and after they’re removed. Wash your hair and scalp regularly with the proper shampoo for your hair type, and always use conditioner while your hair is micro braided. Many stylists recommend waiting four weeks before the first wash, and then washing and conditioning at least once a week while you have these plaits. Spray on a light, leave-in conditioner from label.m, braid spray or hair oil to keep the plaited hair moisturised. Use enough so that the hair doesn’t feel brittle or dry when you touch it. Utilise a light scalp conditioner from label.m, especially around the edges of the scalp, where the most damage can occur when hair is micro braided. You can also use aloe vera gel, olive oil, liquid vitamin E or products containing these substances to keep the scalp well lubricated. Be careful not to use a heavy conditioner that can cause a flaky scalp, which is hard to treat when hair is micro braided. Visit your stylist or a salon professional if necessary, to help maintain your braids or if you feel that damage or breakage has occurred. Call 17 756-449, 17 369-133 or 16 031-120 for consultations and more information.
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