Why Do Braids Itch?
If you've ever felt the urge to scratch your scalp just days (or even hours) after getting braids, you're not alone. An itchy scalp is one of the most common complaints among people who wear braids. The good news: once you understand the causes, you can take steps to prevent or relieve it.
How Common Is Itching and Scalp Irritation With Braids?
While there aren't any large-scale scientific studies yet, a 2021 survey by Kynd Hair with 142 participants found that 30%, so nearly one in three people experienced itching or skin irritation from synthetic braiding hair. For some, it's just a little dryness. For others, it gets much worse — with redness, bumps, or even eczema-like flare-ups that can be so uncomfortable they have to take their braids out early.
But, What's Causing Your Braids to Itch?
1. Plastic Synthetic Braiding Hair Can Irritate Your Scalp
Most synthetic braiding hair is made from plastic-based fibers like Polyester, Nylon, PVC, or Modacrylic — which you'll often see labeled as Kanekalon.
Patents and recent studies reveal these fibers can contain:
- Coatings and additives such as dyes, flame retardants, fragrances, preservatives, insect repellents, and antibacterial agents
- High levels of acetone (the same chemical in nail polish remover), a known skin irritant
These chemicals can dry out your scalp, cause irritation, and disrupt your scalp's natural balance. That's why new alternatives — like the plant-based fibers made by Kynd Hair — focus on scalp-friendly materials that won't leave you scratching your head.
2. Braids Can Cause Traction and Scalp Sensitivity
Braids are installed by pulling sections of natural hair tightly into the style. While a snug install helps them last longer, too much tension can irritate the nerves around the hair follicle. This can lead to:
- Tenderness along the hairline
- Small raised bumps (often called "braid bumps")
- Persistent itchiness especially in the first days of your install
Over time, constant traction through braids may even lead to traction alopecia, a form of hair loss caused by repeated tension on the scalp.
3. Buildup Can Make Itching Worse: Sweat, Sebum and Styling Products
Your scalp produces natural oils (sebum). Combined with sweat, dust, and styling products, this quickly leads to build-up. On top of that, synthetic hair is water- and moisture-repellent. The result: sweat can hardly evaporate, creating a warm and humid environment – ideal conditions for:
- Clogged pores
- Dirt and bacteria build-up
- An itchy, flaky scalp environment
Plant-based, skin-friendly braiding hair alternatives like Kynd Hair absorb moisture and therefore provide a more comfortable wearing experience.
Key Takeaway: Why Braids Itch
Your hairstyle itself is not the problem — An itchy scalp with braids usually comes down to three main causes: the chemicals in synthetic braiding hair, the tension from tight installs, and product buildup over time. Choosing skin-
friendly braiding hair alternatives such as Kynd Hair, easing the tension, and keeping your scalp clean can help keep the itch away.
