How long should a protective style stay in?

A protective style protects your hair only while the hair underneath stays healthy. Past a point, it starts to cost you length instead.

The usual range

For most braids and sew-ins we suggest planning for six to eight weeks, adjusted for your hair, your scalp and how the style was installed.

Signs it’s time

Heavy build-up at the root, matting where new growth meets the extension, a sore or itchy scalp, or tension you can feel at the hairline. Any of these means it’s time to book the take-down.

From the chair. Budget time for a proper take-down. Rushing it is where most breakage happens.