When it comes to managing children’s hair, parents often seek solutions that are both practical and appealing. Braids are a popular choice for a variety of reasons—they can be stylish, protective, and keep hair neat for days. However, while braids have their advantages, they may not always be the best strategy for maintaining children’s hair health. In my view, it shouldn’t even be a strategy for maintaining your child’s hair. Here’s why.
Potential Hair Damage
One of the primary concerns with braiding children’s hair is the potential for damage. Tight braids can cause stress on the hair follicles, leading to traction alopecia, a condition where hair is pulled from the roots, causing thinning or bald patches. This risk is particularly significant for young children, whose hair and scalp are still developing.
The Braids to Bald Pipeline
If you read my newsletter on Tuesday, you will see that I spoke about the concern Venessa Walters raised about starting our children in braids so early that they never really learn to care for their own hair. They get used to braids and only braids. In their teens, they graduate to weaves and wigs, and the impact of this over decades can lead to balding hair—she calls it the "braids to bald pipeline," and it is the truth. Many of us didn’t use extensions that much! Not that early and not for decades. The tension and strain on the strands over the years can take a toll, and it’s often the health of the hair that suffers. I cannot stress this enough: your child’s scalp cannot cope with added hair from age 5 to 15 and beyond without consequences.
Braids Are Not Suitable for Some Children
If your child has thin hair strands or low-density hair, braids can do more damage over the years. We know that thicker and denser hair is typically stronger. Your child’s thin strands need gentle and simple styles to flourish, and often this means styles with no added hair! Added hair can be a special treat but should not be a common occurrence.
Children may also have different hair textures, meaning some may experience more tangling and breakage with braids than others.
Scalp Health Concerns
Keeping a child’s scalp healthy is crucial for overall hair health. Braids can trap dirt, oils, and product buildup close to the scalp, which can lead to irritation or scalp conditions like dermatitis. It’s essential to ensure that the scalp remains clean, but this can be more challenging with braided styles. Regular washing and care may be neglected, especially if the braids are left in for too long.
Comfort and Sensitivity
Children’s comfort should always be a priority. Some children may find braiding uncomfortable or painful, especially if the style is too tight. Sensitivity to touch varies among children, and what might feel fine to one child could be excruciating for another.
I want us to do better than what most of our parents did for us. But to do better by our children, we must change our practices. There is no other way. I understand that this is not always easy. It was so hard for me to relearn and unlearn when my daughter was 7. But I was determined to give her a true choice.
While braids can be a beautiful and practical style, they come with drawbacks that may make them less than ideal for maintaining hair health over years. Parents should consider alternative styles that prioritise comfort, scalp health, and hair health over time. Emphasising regular hair care routines, using gentle products, and empowering our children with the knowledge to care for and enjoy their real hair should also be a priority.
Ultimately, the best strategy is one that balances aesthetics with the well-being of your child’s hair and scalp.