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One of the many joys of being a Black woman is wearing my hair in braids.
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But, for some, indulging in these hairstyles can come at a costand not just for your wallet.
Ahead, experts explain all your options.
What is traditional synthetic braiding hair made of?
The fibers are then coated in various chemicals so they resemble textured human hair thats been stretched.
But what we do know is that one of the possible causes of scalp irritation is the coating.
What are some possible risks of wearing synthetic braiding hair?
Dr. Indigo recommends adding a hair test to the process of choosing your braiding hair.
The most common types are 100 percent human hair and plant-based hair.
Human hair brands likeIndique Hairget their extensions straight from the source.
The bright side is that, unlike Kanekalon, plant-based hair can be reused if properly maintained.
Kanekalon hair is usually pre-stretched and tangle-free, making it easier to braid.
Human hair, in particular, is often not pre-stretched, which adds another task for your braider.
With synthetic hair, the chemical coating reduces frizz, making your style look neater for longer.
Discover more about protective styles:
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