THE COMPLETE HAIR PREP GUIDE

We know that getting braids is a way to protect your hair for a long period of time without worry. But you still must properly care for your hair before, during and after you get them installed. We provided information that can help you in that process. Helpful for loc styles and your everyday natural hair too!

BEFORE YOUR VISIT

Pre-Braiding Preparation

Before you arrive for your appointment, please ensure that your hair is:

1. WASHED

2. CONDITIONED

3. UNTANGLED 

4. PROTECTED in a style with 6 to 12 sections of Bantu knots, twists, or braids.  

It is okay for you to VERY GENTLY add light oil to your scalp like, Jojoba, Avocado, Argan or Grapeseed. 

DO NOT Use Coconut oil, Shea butter or Petroleum based greases. 

DO NOT SATURATE your hair with oils or oil-based products as it may lead to excess buildup and slip, making it difficult for the stylist to grip your hair. 

DO NOT Saturate your hair with lotions, leave-in conditioners, gels, mousses or any other styling products. This will also cake up and cause flakiness when styling. 

Sensitivity

For those who are sensitive to braiding hair, particularly Xpression Kanekalon fiber, please purchase the hair from us at least one day prior to your visit and perform a hair cleansing method that removes the irritants. Alternatively, you can purchase RUWA pre-stretched braiding hair. Contact us for the suggested number of packs to purchase for your desired style.      

  

*We advise against purchasing the following brands: Afrelle, EZ Braid or any brand that does not use Xpression Kanekalon fiber. Please give us a call if you have any questions regarding this matter.    

Extension Cleansing Method

Synthetic Hair Cleansing Instructions

It is recommended that you cleanse the hair extensions in a tub using a large basin that can hold up to 4 packs of hair. 

1. DILUTE 1 part vinegar to 3 parts warm water in the bucket. 

2. REMOVE the braiding hair from the pack and gently place the hair in the vinegar solution. 

3. SOAK the hair for 15 minutes. 

4. REMOVE the hair from the bucket and discard the vinegar solution. 

5. RINSE the basin thoroughly.

6. REPLACE the hair back into the empty basin and fill it with cool water. 

7. ADD 2-3 capfuls of hydrating conditioner to the basin and gently mix. 

8. RINSE the hair and be sure to squeeze out any excess liquid.

9. AIR DRY the hair by placing it on a clothing hanger to dry overnight. 

10. REPACKAGE the dried hair into a protective case before your visit.

DURING YOUR VISIT

Hair Style Selection Policy

As styles and techniques rapidly evolve, our Braid Team remains versed in a variety of braiding techniques. Yet, each stylist possesses their own unique specialties. If a client requests and accepts a service outside of the stylist’s category, we are not liable in any disputes related to the final result of the service. We encourage you to book your appointment with the stylist best suited to achieve your requests. It is the client’s responsibility to consult and prepare for their visit accordingly.  

Braiding Disclaimer

Due to the nature of hair braiding, please take into consideration that most braiding techniques will result in some tension on the scalp, especially persons who natural hair length is 3 inches and shorter and and sensitive scalp. Additionally, styles that require extensions add weight to your natural hair strands. Therefore, you may experience some discomfort during the first week after styling, including but not limited to box braids, twists, weaving, cornrows, crochet and locs. While we will do our absolute best to provide a comforting experience, we are not liable in any disputes related to pain, tension and/or hair loss caused by any braiding technique. We encourage you to inquire about the process of any style before your visit. For first time braiders, it is highly recommended that you have a consultation before booking your appointment.  

Faux Locs Disclaimer

Traditional Faux Locs are achieved using a method in which extensions are wrapped at the base(roots) and followed through to your desired length, usually ending at the middle of the back. A heightened level of tension may be experienced due to the nature of this technique. Generally, it takes 5 to 7 days for the tension to subside at the roots and for the dreads to drop or flow freely with movement. It is important that you consult with your stylist before styling should you have any questions. The client is also responsible for performing the proper hair care practices prior to styling. Faux locs is a specialty style, and we will NOT offer a credit or refund for any issues related to pain, discomfort and/or dissatisfaction with the final look. 

Hot Water Disclaimer

After the completion of most styles, we hot water set the hair extensions to straighten or add curls/waves to the ends of the braids or twists, and more importantly, to polish the style. While this is a common and safe practice, we extend to you the right to refuse this part of the service.   

AFTER YOUR VISIT

Braid Maintenance & After Care

You must wrap your hair every night with a satin scarf or bonnet to optimally maintain the style. You can also opt to sleep on a satin pillow cover. The satin material prevents the hair from frizzing and locks moisture into your hair and scalp. A du-rag or a large cotton t-shirt are great alternatives to use for this purpose as well. 

DIY Braid Spray for Comfort and Relief

While wearing braids, it is best to keep up with a soft regimen to maintain the health of your hair. A soft regimen is a simple way to maintain your scalp’s moisture content and overall health during protective styles. You can create a homemade braid spray to do just that. In a spray bottle, mix water, an astringent like lemon juice, honey, and a mixture of herbal oils. Spray this mixture onto your scalp 2 to 3 times per week. Then massage your scalp with a light oil like avocado or jojoba. This simple formula will also help to release tension and reduce itchiness due to dry scalp.  

Tips to Braid Responsibly

To maintain the health of your natural hair, it is vital to take a break of at least 2 months from ALL tension styling habits after removing a braiding style. This includes NOT getting braids, twists, weaves, crochet and tight ponytails. In between styling, your focus should be on treating your hair and scalp with a consistent regimen of hair conditioning, scalp oil treatments, hair masks and rocking your natural hair as is. 

You can wear ponytails and wigs periodically but frequently wearing these styles can cause breakage along the hairline and suffocate the scalp. So be careful and don't overdo these styles. Maintaining your natural hair may seem difficult, but it is the best way to preserve and repair your hair and scalp from the stress caused by styling. Also, the more you allow yourself to appreciate your natural hair state, the more you will learn about what it needs and what methods work best for you.  

SEE WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS HAVE TO SAY!

After a few frustrating experiences with other braiding shops, I finally found my go-to spot: K&D African Braiding in Bayshore! I've had my hair braided multiple times recently, and it seemed like something was always off – the length, thickness, color, you name it. But at K&D, they really listened to what I wanted. From the moment I first called, due to the friendly demeanor of the owner or whoever answered the phone, I knew that my experience would have been good. The attention to detail was amazing, and they didn't rush the process at all. They had a great selection of hair to choose from, and the braiders worked quickly and efficiently. All the workers have been kind and friendly, even the customers got along well, which demonstrates a very welcoming atmosphere. Plus, the salon was super clean and refreshing. The experience created a lasting impression and I would highly recommend this salon for your braiding and/ or styling needs!

Tashena Johnson
Tashena Johnson

Wow! So many incredible, talented women in K&D African Hair Braiding. Thank you for a wonderful experience. I feel so beautiful with my bohemian braids. I’ve received so many compliments too. I got to enjoy my look in Italy with no issues! I will be returning soon ✨

Mimi Sorrentino
Mimi Sorrentino

This is my family I have been serviced for over 20 years and LOVE them. Thank you for allowing me in and now I get to see the generational shift with the daughters 🙌🏾 becoming the entrepreneurs. Please 🙏🏾 feel free to be serviced by KD African Hair...

Kerstien C. Snowden
Kerstien C. Snowden

K&D African Hair braiding is the best. They always willing to help you and accommodate to the style that you want. I have been coming here for over 5 years and never had a bad experience. I absolutely recommend them to any and everyone because they are the best. Thank you for everything ladies!

Zakiya Booker
Zakiya Booker

10/10 they matched my style to the T! Very professional, clean, calm environment and great hospitality. I been coming here since 2015 and i havent went anywhere else again!

Neslon Medina
Neslon Medina

This platform has revolutionized our business operations. The seamless integration and powerful features have helped us scale our marketing efforts efficiently while maintaining excellent customer relationships.

Stephanie Badillo
Stephanie Badillo

I love it here! I know you won't be disappointed. Update: Yes, I still love getting my hair styled at K&D! Have you booked yet?!

Karen N.
Karen N.

I am so excited about my box braids! I was so worried my hair wouldn’t be ready for the work week and they were willing to take me same day, I greatly appreciate how warm and inviting they were and I’m just overall impressed. I haven’t been there in years, but I am so glad I was able to make it back to them. Many blessing to these ladies ❤️

Bianca Boyd
Bianca Boyd

Kandi is awesome! She cared for my hair like it was her very own. I have been getting my hair braided for over 15 years and never has a hair dresser taken as much care as she did. She went above and beyond by giving me tips in detail on how to care for my natural hair which is something no one has ever taken the time to do. I think I have found my new favorite braiding salon!

C. Hamilton
C. Hamilton

11/10 DEFINITELY RECOMMEND!! I just want to say that these ladies are amazing. They are extremely Kind, huge-hearted amazing people. I was in the hospital with covid for 2 months on a ventilator and I got a HUGE knot in my hair because it wasn’t brushed. I suffered with this knot for 9 months because I couldn’t get it out and I didn’t want to shave my head. I was waiting for it to grow out because I couldn’t fix it. These ladies took me in even though they don’t really take knots out for people, I don’t think that’s really a service they offer lol but they did it for me anyway. Kind worked on my head for almost 2 hours and got the entire thing out. I cried the whole way home because I couldn’t believe she got it out for me. It sounds so small but it was really huge for me and I am so grateful for them. While I was there I was able to watch each woman work and THEY ARE SO TALENTED!!! Each stylist knows exactly what they are doing and are all extremely talented in their trade. I lost a lot of hair from Covid but when it all grows back I will definitely be going back for some braids!!! My boyfriend gets his done there and they are PERFECT every time. I would recommend this place a million times over. Thank you to all these ladies for helping me out and giving me some confidence back. I’ll be back and everyone should try them out also!

Faye
Faye

It was a wonderful services. I was calling yesterday morning for an appointment, Kandee did her best and checked my girls in at 5:00 pm. They are very professional and patient and nice with clients. My girls just showed them the picture regarding the style she would like to get. I am telling you guys they did it much better than the picture. I recommend anyone who is looking for a good place to make you happy, call them and set up an appointment. I promise you guys You won’t be disappointed.

Noezil Samuel
Noezil Samuel

The best braiding place in Long Island!! Kandi and her staff are amazingly talented and the nicest people to tend to your hair! The only place I will get my hair braided!

Sandy McCoy
Sandy McCoy

K&D African Hair Braiding

129 West Main Street | Bay Shore, NY 11706

631.968.6311 | [email protected]

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