Braids have long been among the top go-to protective hairstyles for Black women. They last long enough, they don’t require daily styling, yet they can be as versatile as you desire. Anyone who’s a fan of braids, however, knows all too well the dreaded itchy scalp that often follows behind. Though uncomfortable, it’s not as inevitable a situation as it may seem, especially with an anti-itch braid spray or oil in your stash.
An itchy scalp, and thus itchy braids, in a nutshell, come down to a lack of moisture, which makes getting your hands on products that are known not only for their hydrating properties but their ability to keep moisture locked in the hair and scalp as well, a vital part of braid maintenance. Ensuring your scalp actually has the moisture it needs is key, and anti-itch sprays and oils with nourishing ingredients such as tea tree oil and olive oil are among the best to look out for. There are additional factors that can contribute to an itchy scalp with braided hair, including tight braids, certain types of synthetic hair, and forgoing washing for too long (yes, it is recommended to wash your braids, even if sparingly). But if you’ve covered all those bases and still need help in the scalp department, a spray or oil for replenishment is likely your answer.
See a few of our favorites ahead.
01
01
As I Am Dry & Itchy Scalp Care Oil Treatment
Thanks to both olive and tea tree oil, this hair oil rewards you with both less itch and less dandruff.
02
Jamaican Mango & Lime Maximum Relief No More Itch Spray
A root stimulator at its core, this spray encourages healthy blood flow in the scalp, and its nourishing ingredients leave it feeling ultra moisturized.
Very few beauty products remain mainstays like Doo Gro’s Anti Itch Hair Oil. With shea butter, Vitamins A & E and tea tree oil, it’s been proven to claims.
05
HASK Tea Tree Oil & Rosemary 5-in-1 Leave-In Spray
Complete with an herbal scent you’ll enjoy, this leave-in spray comes with a line of benefits from soothing and cooling to diminishing frizz. A good item to have on hand even when your hair isn’t braided, it helps with detangling and protecting hair during heat styling, as well.
10
Camille Rose Mint Condition Braid & Scalp Spray
Fusing together essential oils, herbs and sea moss mineral, this spray brings relief to anyone with a dry and itchy scalp while also boosting hair health.
