It’s a piece of hair advice that gets passed down through generations: if you want your hair to grow long, put it in braids. Many of us have spent summers with our hair plaited, believing it was the secret to reaching new lengths. But is there any truth to this common belief, or is it just a comforting myth?
The real story is a bit more nuanced. Braids themselves don’t possess a magical ingredient that makes your hair grow faster from the root. Hair growth happens from within, influenced by genetics, diet, and overall health. However, the right braiding practices can create an environment where the hair you are growing is better protected, leading to less breakage and the appearance of longer, healthier hair over time.
How Braids Protect Your Growing Hair
Think of your hair strands like a delicate fabric. When left loose, they rub against clothing, get tangled in the wind, and snag on brushes. This daily friction leads to breakage, especially at the fragile ends. By keeping hair neatly contained in a braid, you significantly reduce this mechanical damage. It’s less about speeding up growth and more about slowing down the loss of the length you’ve worked so hard to achieve.
The Right Way to Braid for Hair Health
Not all braids are created equal. To get the protective benefits, your technique matters. Avoid pulling the hair too tightly, as this can cause traction alopecia, a condition that actually damages hair follicles. The braid should feel secure but not painful. It’s also a good idea to switch up the position of your braids to avoid constant stress on the same sections of your scalp.
Giving Your Hair a Break with Braids
For many, a simple braid can be a form of low-manipulation styling. When your hair is plaited, you’re less likely to constantly brush, heat style, or fuss with it throughout the day. This “hands-off” approach gives your hair a much-needed rest from daily styling routines that can cause stress and breakage. A loose braid at night can also be a great alternative to a silk pillowcase for preventing tangles and friction while you sleep.
A Word of Caution for Protective Styles
While single braids you do yourself are generally low-risk, more complex styles like box braids or cornrows that are kept in for weeks require extra care. It’s crucial to keep your scalp and the braids clean to prevent product buildup and irritation. Always listen to your scalp—if a style feels too tight, it probably is.
So, do braids help hair grow? They don’t change your biology, but they are a fantastic tool for protecting the hair you have. By minimizing breakage and reducing daily manipulation, braids help you retain length, making your journey to longer hair much more successful. The true secret to growth isn’t just about what you put on your hair, but how you protect it.