TCHD Reader Mail

I would like to get braids to grow my hair. My edges are easy to come out and I want to get cornrows. Please help me. I would like a step by step plan for my hair. I strated taking vitamins and MSM. I wash my hair every ther to five days. I have a relaxer. I anm going to start pooing because I wash me hair so often. I workout a lot. With braids do I still wash my hair? And my hair type is a 4A what is best for my hair?

Hey B.,

I'm going to give you a simple regimen to have while you're in braids. If you're going to get braids, I suggest getting plaits/box braids. Cornrows would have to be re-done every 2-3 weeks and they pull on your edges. First, before you braid up your hair, wash your hair with a clarifying/chelating shampoo like ORS Creamy Aloe. That will give your hair a fresh start. Then, deep condition with ORS Replenishing Pak for 45 minutes; no heat. Afterwards, rinse and apply a cheap conditioner like VO5 Moisture Milks Strawberry & Cream Conditioner for 3 minutes. Rinse with cool water and towel dry your hair. Apply a leave-in of your choice (I use Kids Organics) and let your hair air dry or blow dry it. If you do blow dry, use a heat protectant like Fantasia IC Heat Protector Serum. When your hair is dry, braid it up.

While in braids, I recommend that your wash once a week with the same products that I mentioned but instead of the ORS Creamy Aloe, use a moisturizing shampoo like Creme of Nature Ultra Moisturizing (Green and Yellow). You should also moisturize your hair twice a week. Once a month though, pre-poo with ORS Mayo for 30-45 minutes; no heat. Make sure to keep up with your vitamins. All this will improve the overall health of your hair and lead to some growth. As for edges, massage them daily, apply some Coconut oil to them, and don't braid them tight. I really hope this all helps you and please let me know how your hair is doing. Feel free to e-mail me at anytime. :)

- Belle Cheveux