The condition of your hair before your braiding appointment has a direct impact on how beautiful your braids look and how long they last. Many clients arrive at Braids by Dorine without having done any pre-appointment preparation and then wonder why their style does not last as long as expected.

This step-by-step checklist will ensure that you arrive at our Antwerp salon with your hair in the best possible condition for braiding. Following these steps also makes the installation process faster and more comfortable.

Why Pre-Braid Preparation Matters

Braiding unwashed, dry, or tangled hair is significantly harder for the stylist and produces inferior results. Extensions grip cleaner, moisturized hair better. Tangles and knots slow down the installation and can cause breakage. Clean hair also reduces the risk of scalp irritation and itching under your braids.

The Complete Pre-Braid Checklist

Step 1: Wash and Deep Condition Your Hair (1 to 2 Days Before)

Wash your hair with a clarifying or moisturizing shampoo to remove build-up from products, sweat, and environmental pollutants. Follow immediately with a deep conditioning treatment and leave it in for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This step is crucial because once your hair is braided, it will be 6 to 8 weeks before you can properly deep condition again.

Step 2: Detangle Thoroughly

After conditioning, detangle your hair completely using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, working from the ends up to the roots. Every single tangle must be removed before your appointment. Arriving with tangled hair will significantly increase your appointment time and can result in breakage during the braiding process.

Step 3: Stretch Your Natural Hair

If you have tightly coiled natural hair, stretching it before your appointment makes the braiding process faster and reduces the amount of tension needed at the root. You can stretch your hair by braiding it loosely in large sections overnight, banding it with hair ties from root to tip, or using a blow-dryer on the lowest heat setting with a comb attachment.

Step 4: Trim Any Split Ends

If you have significant split ends, consider trimming them before your appointment. Split ends can travel up the hair shaft and cause breakage under your braids. A small trim before installation means your natural hair will be in better condition when you take the braids down.

Step 5: Do NOT Arrive with Wet Hair

While your hair should be clean, it must be completely dry when you arrive for your appointment. Braiding wet hair traps moisture inside the braids, which can cause mildew, scalp issues, and unpleasant odors. Wash your hair at least 12 to 24 hours before your appointment to ensure it is fully dry.

Step 6: Apply a Light Oil or Leave-In Conditioner

On the morning of your appointment, apply a light leave-in conditioner or oil to your hair to add softness and manageability. Avoid heavy butters or thick products as these can interfere with the grip of the extensions.

Step 7: Eat and Hydrate Before You Arrive

Braiding appointments can last anywhere from 3 to 8 hours depending on the style. Eat a proper meal before you arrive and bring water and snacks. Being hungry or dehydrated during a long appointment makes the process far more uncomfortable. Our team will make you as comfortable as possible, but proper personal preparation makes a big difference.

What to Communicate to Your Stylist

Before the braiding begins, make sure to discuss the following with your stylist at Braids by Dorine:

• Your preferred style, length, and thickness of braids
• Any scalp sensitivities or skin conditions we should know about
• Whether you have had any traction alopecia or edge thinning in the past
• Your lifestyle, for example whether you swim regularly or exercise intensively, as this helps us recommend the most suitable style

Ready to Book Your Braiding Appointment?
Now that your hair is prepared, let Braids by Dorine create your perfect look.
Book via WhatsApp: +32 470 532 289
Email: Info@braidsbydorine.store | www.braidsbydorine.store
New clients get a special discount on their first braiding appointment!