Braids for the summer

It’s the height of summer, and while you want to look your best, the last thing you want to think about is how to style your hair. That’s where braids step in. They give you a styled, look with minimal effort. The best part? With the right type of braid, you’ll stay cooler throughout the season.

The braids to go for

Ideally you want to go for a style that’s lightweight, so the density of your braids should be carefully considered to avoid the extensions weighing you down. Clicks Beauty Squad member Bassie Peete loves knotless braids for this reason: “Knotless braids are my preferred summer braid look because they are lightweight, put less tension to the hair and scalp, and have high moisture retention”. Think about whether you’d like a look that’s sleek against your scalp (like cornrows), or individual braids (singles or twists). Both options are great at keeping you cool because they can be styled away from the back of your neck.

The braids to avoid

Anything thick and bushy should be avoided in order to keep your cool when temperatures rise. Select styles that allow easy access to your scalp to allow the product to effectively penetrate when washing or moisturising. “I like braids that require fewer extensions because they are gentle for my hair and scalp,” says Clicks Beauty Squad member Sne Buthelezi. “As a natural hair girl I’m always looking for hairstyles that lessen scalp tension and create a more natural look,” she says.

Keep them fresher for longer

There are simple tactics to ensure your braids look as good as when you first stepped out of the hair salon, two or even three months later. The key? Avoiding product build-up and excessive friction. “I make sure to sleep on a satin pillowcase and have the braids wrapped up in a satin doek,” says Sne. A silkier fabric causes the least amount of friction, which can cause your braids to fray. Product build up at your roots has the potential to produce a musty smell when mixed with summer sweat, and will cause harmful knots when it’s time to remove your braids. “Keeping my braids looking fresher for longer requires removing product build-up from my scalp with dry shampoos,” says Bassie. “I keep my hair moisturised by applying a leave-in conditioner followed by an oil serum that accommodates my hair porosity is also a must,” she adds.

What to shop

Install

Darling One Million Braids extensions
 
Scalp care

Ethnogenics Tension Relief Serum


The San Hair Styling Mousse
 

Dark and Lovely Waterless Cleanser


Finishing touches

Ethnogenics 2 in 1 Braid & Refresher spray

The San Hair Edge Control

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