Braids are more than just a summer trend—they’re a protective style, a time-saver, and a chic solution for hot, humid days. Summer can be tough on hair: UV rays, saltwater, chlorine, and humidity all take their toll, leaving strands dry, frizzy, or damaged. That’s why protective styles like braids are your best friend this season. They keep your hair neatly tucked away, minimize daily heat styling, and help lock in moisture so your hair stays nourished and healthy—even in the harshest summer conditions.
Before braiding, our stylists recommend working a heat protectant or nourishing repair cream through your hair. This creates a protective barrier, strengthens strands, and ensures your braid doesn’t just look beautiful—it actively supports your hair’s health.
At Fabio Scalia Salon, our stylists love braids not only for their beauty but also for their practicality. Braids protect hair from heat damage, keep strands secure, and add effortless sophistication to any look. If you’ve ever wanted to master professional-looking braids at home, here are our top stylist-approved tips:
1. Start with Smooth, Detangled Hair
Before you braid, make sure your hair is fully detangled. Use a detangling brush or wide-tooth comb, followed by a lightweight leave-in conditioner or smoothing cream. This prevents breakage and ensures your braid looks neat from root to tip.
Pro Pick: Our Leo and Gio wooden wide-tooth combs are perfect for detangling with the softest glide, minimizing friction and keeping your strands smooth and protected. Pair them with Oribe Crème for Style for light hold and control, or Oribe Supershine for softness and shine.
2. Add Grip
Freshly washed hair can be slippery. A little dry shampoo or texturizing spray adds grip, making braiding easier—especially for structured looks like French or Dutch braids.
Pro Pick: For shine and touchable hold, try Oribe Après Beach Spray.
3. Section with Precision
Clean, even sections are key to a polished braid. Use a tail comb to part sharply and keep your sections symmetrical.
Stylist Samantha’s Tip: “Clip each section tightly with strong clips before you begin. This helps maintain a clean braid and keeps everything in place while you work.”
4. Maintain Consistent Tension
The secret to a braid that looks professional? Even tension. Avoid pulling too tight, which can cause scalp stress, but don’t go too loose either. A balanced grip ensures your braid stays secure and smooth.
Stylist Samantha’s Tip: “Keeping even tension throughout the braid is one of the most important details—it makes or breaks the finished look.”
5. Work Close to the Scalp
When creating French or Dutch braids, keep your hands close to the scalp as you weave. This technique makes the style last longer and look more refined.
Stylist Samantha’s Tip: For workout-friendly braids, try boxer braids—they’re sleek, practical, and stay put through movement.
6. Pancake for Volume
After securing your braid, gently tug at the outer edges with your fingers to “pancake” it. This softens the braid, adds fullness, and gives a chic, lived-in finish.
Stylist Samantha’s Tip: “For a loose, bohemian look, gently pull open the bottom of the braid and fan it out. This creates a relaxed, romantic vibe.”
7. Secure the Ends & Smooth Flyaways
Finish your braid with a clear elastic or one that matches your hair color. For a polished look, smooth flyaways with a touch of styling cream or hairspray applied to your fingertips.
Pro Trick: Use a makeup brush lightly misted with hairspray to sweep down flyaways for a seamless finish.
Stylist Samantha’s Go-To Products:
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Rock Hard Gel or Gel Serum for sleek, sculpted looks.
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Label.m Wax Stick for taming edges and adding definition.
8. Protect Overnight
To extend the life of your braid, wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or use a silk pillowcase. This reduces frizz and helps your style stay fresh by morning.
Ready to Try It?
Braiding doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right prep and a little practice, you can master the basics and elevate your everyday look. From a casual beach-day style to an elegant updo, these tips will help you create braids that last and look stunning.
Need inspiration—or a little hands-on help? Book a styling session at Fabio Scalia Salon in Brooklyn Heights or SoHo. .
Fabio Scalia Salon – Healthy Hair Is Beautiful Hair
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