Can Braids Cause Tension Headaches?
If you've ever gotten a fresh set of braids and found yourself reaching for pain relievers later that day, you're definitely not alone. I've experienced it myself more than once. You leave the salon loving the look, but a few hours later your scalp feels tight, your forehead starts throbbing, and even smiling can feel uncomfortable.
The short answer is yes — braids can cause tension headaches, especially when they're installed too tightly.
When braids are pulled excessively at the roots, they create constant tension on the scalp. That pulling sensation doesn't just affect your hair follicles. It can also strain the nerves and muscles around your scalp, temples, and neck, leading to headaches that range from mild discomfort to significant pain.
Fresh braids often feel tight during the first day or two, but there's a difference between normal snugness and excessive tension. If your scalp feels sore, you notice small bumps around the hairline, or you have difficulty sleeping because of the tightness, your braids may be installed too tightly.
I've found that styles with smaller braids, extra-long lengths, or very tight edges tend to cause the most discomfort. The added weight can put even more stress on the scalp, especially if your natural hair is fine or fragile.
Besides headaches, overly tight braids can lead to other problems. Constant tension may contribute to hair breakage around the edges and, over time, increase the risk of traction alopecia—a form of hair loss caused by repeated pulling on the hair follicles.
The good news is that there are a few things you can do if your new braided hairstyles are causing headaches. Applying a warm towel to the scalp can help relax the tension. Wearing your braids in a loose style instead of a tight ponytail may also reduce pressure. Some people find relief by gently massaging the scalp or using a lightweight scalp oil.
If the pain is severe or doesn't improve after a couple of days, it's worth considering loosening or removing the braids. No protective style is worth risking damage to your scalp or hairline.
Braids should feel secure, but they shouldn't hurt. A well-installed braided style can protect your natural hair while still being comfortable enough to wear every day. If you're getting braids regularly, don't be afraid to tell your stylist when something feels too tight. Your scalp will thank you for it.
The short answer is yes — braids can cause tension headaches, especially when they're installed too tightly.
When braids are pulled excessively at the roots, they create constant tension on the scalp. That pulling sensation doesn't just affect your hair follicles. It can also strain the nerves and muscles around your scalp, temples, and neck, leading to headaches that range from mild discomfort to significant pain.
Fresh braids often feel tight during the first day or two, but there's a difference between normal snugness and excessive tension. If your scalp feels sore, you notice small bumps around the hairline, or you have difficulty sleeping because of the tightness, your braids may be installed too tightly.
I've found that styles with smaller braids, extra-long lengths, or very tight edges tend to cause the most discomfort. The added weight can put even more stress on the scalp, especially if your natural hair is fine or fragile.
Besides headaches, overly tight braids can lead to other problems. Constant tension may contribute to hair breakage around the edges and, over time, increase the risk of traction alopecia—a form of hair loss caused by repeated pulling on the hair follicles.
The good news is that there are a few things you can do if your new braided hairstyles are causing headaches. Applying a warm towel to the scalp can help relax the tension. Wearing your braids in a loose style instead of a tight ponytail may also reduce pressure. Some people find relief by gently massaging the scalp or using a lightweight scalp oil.
If the pain is severe or doesn't improve after a couple of days, it's worth considering loosening or removing the braids. No protective style is worth risking damage to your scalp or hairline.
Braids should feel secure, but they shouldn't hurt. A well-installed braided style can protect your natural hair while still being comfortable enough to wear every day. If you're getting braids regularly, don't be afraid to tell your stylist when something feels too tight. Your scalp will thank you for it.
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