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I've gotta admit: There's not much stress or strife in this life that a fresh set of braids can't alleviate. So, if you're on the lookout for a simple 'do to enhance your energy, consider yourself in the right place at the right time. The stitch-and-go style on today's episode of The Braid Up is the quick and easy-to-maintain look that your summer escapades need. Atlanta-based braiding pro Erica White swung by our studio to lay down exactly how to do this timeless style. So just sit back and observe. Then, check out our advice on how you can keep your hair healthy and maintained while wearing this look yourself:
1. Moisturize your hair with a mask. You'll want to wash and blow dry your hair before getting any protective style done, but before you pull out the hair dryer, coat your hair with a deep conditioner. This will help detangle and moisturize tf outta your curls so that they don't get damaged pre-braiding.
Bumble and Bumble Ultra Rich Conditioning Mask
Imbue Curl Restoring Intensive Mask
Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Wash Day Deep Moisture Masque
Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Masque
2. Oil your scalp. To help keep your scalp moisturized and soothed while you've got these braids in, drip a few drops of your favorite scalp oil and massage in every night. It'll provide relaxing scalp relief (so that you don't get that post-appointment itchy feeling).
3. Choose a fun secondary color. Do you see that cool ombre concept White did in the episode? That could be your vibe, or you could opt for bold, bright tips. Pick up a couple bundles of braiding hair online before your appointment to give to your stylist to create major dimension with this style.
4. Lay it down with mousse. You want this look to stay laid right? A few pumps of a no-flake lightweight mousse will literally have you covered. Wrap your hair with a satin headscarf for 15-20 minutes after smoothing it on to allow the product to do its thing.
Hair: In collaboration with Stasha Harris of Magic Fingers Studio
Makeup: Ashley Johnson
Videographer: Rob Mroczko
Production assistant: Jay Aguirre
Director of digital series: Tara O’Connell
Annabel Iwegbue is an assistant editor at Cosmopolitan who covers lifestyle, beauty, and astrology. Just, you know, all of the things. Before joining Cosmo, she wrote for Harper's Bazaar, The Knockturnal, and Black Film. You can check out some of Annabel’s work here and also find her on Instagram and Twitter.
