How does wrapping or braiding your hair help make it healthier?

Question

Someone told me that and i just don't see how it would help.

Answer 1

I braided my hair from November to July with a break of just a month in between (not recommended).

I have natural afro hair and it grew a huge amount, so it was definitely "rested" but lately it seems weak at the roots which i think is a result of traction from wearing a ponytail style for months on end.

I'll probably need to carry out a regular conditioning treatment and top up on vitamins.

so to answer your question if you bread your hair it will be rested but your roots may suffer as it would with a weave.

Answer 2

My sister used to always braid her hair when she was in her teens and her hair were really healthy then, I really don't know how it makes the hair healthy but its a fact that if you keep your hair down, (let them lose) they get a split ends.

Answer 3

wrapping your hair at night helps to keep your hair moisturized, so there for it wont be as prone to breaking of or getting split ends.

Answer 4

The reasoning behind the braiding, as far as "healthy" hair goes is to keep your hands out of your hair. Basically, the less manipulation you do to your hair the less your hair is prone to breakage which will help in retaining length. For instance, many black women with natural hair consider braiding to be a "protective" style that will prevent breakage because with your hair in braids you can't comb or brush it or use harsh chemicals on it, all of which can cause it to break. But, if you keep in your braids for too long then this can cause breakage too, because your hair can tangle and become dry and brittle if you don't take care of it. So, with braids you have to know when to take them down for them to be effective. So, I don't know that it makes your hair healthier, but it helps keep your hair from becoming damaged and breaking off.

Another downside to braids is if they are too tight or if you leave them in for too long then they can begin to put a lot of stress on your hairline which can cause hair loss. You might see some women who obviously have a receding hairline and it could be genetic or for some health reason, or it could be prolonged use of braids or having them too tight.