Should My Child Get Braids Part 3

🌍 Series: Kids, Curls & Chemicals

Part 3: Safer, Science-Informed Options for Children’s Hair Care

So what can we do instead of extensions? The good news is, there are child-friendly routines that keep hair healthy, build confidence, and avoid unnecessary chemical exposure.

Here are a few Curl Coach UK approved options:

✨ Hydration the smart way
Water is the ultimate hydrator. Oils don’t hydrate—they seal. So for children’s hair, gentle cleansing with a mild, sulphate-free shampoo followed by a gentle moisturising conditioner is the foundation. A light misting with water from their spray bottle daily will keep their hair moisturised and soft between washes. (No, I do not believe in leave-in-conditioners. Apart from being a marketing ploy to encourage us to spend even more on products, they lead to build up in my experience. Proceed with caution, some of the healthiest hair I have encountered in my life was not a result of products)

✨ Low-manipulation styles without added hair
Puffs, two-strand twists, cornrows using only their natural hair, or loose plaits are all gentle ways to keep hair manageable. Shorter intervals (1–2 weeks) avoid tension and build-up. Ensure that the styles are not tight and stressing their tender follicles. Curly hair CANNOT continue to have standards of neatness imposed on it. It leads to traction alopecia!

✨ Protection without chemicals
Silk or satin pillowcases and bonnets protect hair overnight without needing sprays or leave-in cocktails that aren’t tested for little scalps.

✨ Scalp-first care
If a style causes scalp redness, bumps, or discomfort, that’s the body signalling stress. A clean, comfortable scalp is the real win—not just a neat finish.

✨ Patience over perfection
Childhood is not a race to “perfect hair.” It’s about building a positive relationship with their natural crown. Styling should never come at the cost of health or comfort.

Parents, this is about informed love. Not rushing, not judging, just protecting. Extensions will always be there when they’re older—but their scalps and growing bodies need gentleness now.

👑 Let’s keep their crowns chemical-light until they’re ready.