Top Products To Use When You Have Box Braids

We asked box braid enthusiasts what products they can’t live without when rocking protective styles.

Sienna Naturals Plant Power & Girl + Hair Nourish Leave-In Conditioner

• 

• 

“Before getting braids, I’ll do the Sienna Naturals Plant Power hair mask to deep condition my hair and make sure it’s strong and healthy. The Girl + Hair Nourish Leave-In Conditioner is a lightweight moisturizer that’s made specifically for protective styles. I’ve been using this product when my hair is in box braid for years and I’ve never lost an edge.” —Desiree Verdejo, founder of Hyper Skin and Vivrant Beauty

Jane Carter Nutrient Replenishing Conditioner & Curls Blueberry Bliss Hair Growth Oil

• 

• 

“I like to mix the Jane Carter Solution Nutrient Replenishing Conditioner with water before spraying it on my hair, then I seal it in with a palmful of Curls Blueberry Bliss Hair Growth Oil. I do this three times a week when wearing braids, and by the time I take them out, my hair is soft and silky.” — Lauren Williams, former editor at Essence Magazine

Kreyol Essence Haitian Black Castor Oil

“To ease the pain of new braids, I add 10-20 drops of the Kreyol Essence Organic Rosemary Mint Haitian Black Castor Oil to a 4oz spray bottle filled with ½ water and ½ of your favorite moisturizing conditioner. Shake and spray.” — Yve-Car Momperousse, founder of Kreyol Essence

Mizani Scalp Care Calming Lotion

A Swivel favorite, this scalp lotion is a godsend for when you’ve just gotten braids or things are getting a little itchy. The tingling coolness will instantly ease any discomfort.”