18 Best Hair Products For Braids, As Per A Color Specialist (2024)
Keep your hairstyles tight and secured with affordable hair products that are effective.
Kristina is a color specialist with 18 years of experience. She started her career in New York City and quickly began working at a top NYC hair salon where she trained to become the Color Specialist she is today. Since entering the industry in 2005, she has worked behind the chair, backstage at fashion week, supported editorial and ecommerce works, and educated other artists in the industry.
Read full bio of Kristina Maccaro
Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
Read full bio of Oyendrila Kanjilal
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
We love an intricate braid but sometimes ignore the right and best hair products for braids required to make a beautiful look. Not only is braiding suitable for protective styling but also a great way to tame textured hair, and a good practice to reduce your hair from breakage, provided you tie it loosely. Sometimes, we need a tight braid to last the whole day, so that’s when you make use of the right kind of hair products to nourish those locks deeply. Here are the ten best hair products for braid maintenance to increase elasticity and strength. Thanks to essential oils and other hair growth ingredients! These products were chosen based on their formulations and of course the reviewer’s experience. Scroll on to learn more!
In This Article
18 Best Hair Products That Pamper And Protect Your Braids
1. Best Travel-Friendly: Bed Head by TIGI Hair Wax Stick
The Bed Head by TIGI Wax Stick is ideal for braids, curly locks, and frizzy edges. It is enriched with deeply nourishing castor oil and beeswax that seals in moisture and adds definition to your hair. This stick holds the braids well and fixes the baby hair and flyaways at the edges. The natural oils in the formula protect the braids from heat, sweat, and humidity and do not form cakey or sticky layers on the scalp. This semi-matte finish stick has a no mess application that adapts to all hair lengths and types, ensuring a touchable, soft texture that captures attention. The reviewers have left positive feedback for the product online that attests to its efficacy of holding hair in place.
Key Ingredients: Castor oil, Sunflower oil, Jojoba oil, Coconut oil, Glycerin, and Aloe leaf extract
Pros
- Offers a strong hold
- Non-cakey
- Long-lasting
- Easy to apply
- Non-greasy
- Alcohol-free
- Easy to rinse
Cons
- May be sticky if applied excessively.
2. Best Moisturizing: Pantene Gold Series Triple Care Braid Cream
The Triple Care Braid Cream from Pantene’s Gold Series is a moisture-locking and texture-enhancing braid styling product. It is infused with pure argan oil that releases the built-up stress from braiding on the scalp and hair. The provitamin B5 and vitamin E condition the braids and prevent dryness and breakage. This cream also controls frizz and adds a subtle shine to the braids and locs. The formula is thick enough to spread well on textured or afro hair but is non-greasy and does not build up in the cuticles. Here’s an honest review and the tester’s experience of using the product.
Key Ingredients: Argan oil, Panthenol, Histidine, and Salicylic acid
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Adds shine
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Overwhelming scent
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 3,416 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
3. Best No-Residue Formula: Carol’s Daughter Curl Defining Butter
The Carol’s Daughter Curl Defining Butter is enriched with moisturizing and nourishing ingredients like agave, avocado oil, honey, shea butter, and other rich oils that keep your curls defined for 24 hours. The silicon- and paraben-free formula conditions your curly or kinky tresses and adds a natural shine without leaving any greasy residue. This hair butter detangles knots and imparts a smooth texture to your hair, ideal for clean hair braids. In addition, it also has a fresh smell that leaves you in great spirits throughout the day. Scoop out a generous amount of product and rub it between your palms, then apply it evenly to your damp hair from the root to tip. Next, style your natural hair in braids, and voila! Enjoy your smooth and healthy-looking braids.
Key Ingredients: Agave nectar, Coconut oil, Honey, and Shea butter
Pros
- Adds shine
- Leaves no residue
- Pleasant fragrance
- Silicon-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Feels sticky
RememberWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 4,082 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
Bed Head by TIGI Hair Wax Stick Best Travel-Friendly | Pantene Gold Series Triple Care Braid Cream Best Moisturizing | Carol’s Daughter Curl Defining Butter Best No-Residue Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | All | Oily, Curly, Coily | Curly |
| Dimensions | 1.77 x 1.77 x 3.94 inches | 1.89 x 1.89 x 6.26 inches | - |
| Weight | 2.57 Ounces | 5.12 Ounces. | 13.32 Ounces |
| Dimensions | - | - | 3.68 x 3.68 x 2.75 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | - | 3,416 | 4,082 |
| Price | $16.13 | $5.99 | $11.97 |
4. Best Mineral Oil-Free Formula: Beard Gains Lion Locs Rosewater Spray
The Beard Gains Lion Locs Rosewater Spray is lightweight and does not flake, leave any residue, or leave heavy oil stains, making it an ideal hair care solution for braiding as well as healthy hair. This spray is enriched with aloe, essential oils, vitamins, and glycerin along with rosewater to provide restorative care and keep your dreadlocks from drying out. It penetrates the scalp and encourages healthy hair growth in dry and damaged hair. This product is beneficial for both naturally straight and curly type hair. This lightly scented spray is made from natural ingredients to keep your hair healthy and fragrant.
Key Ingredients: Rosewater, Aloe, and Glycerine
Pros
- Can be used for both hair and skin
- Controls frizz
- Doesn’t leave any wax residue
- Lightweight
- Flake-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- The rose scent can be overpowering for some.
5. Best Long-Lasting Formula: The Mane Choice Tropical Moringa Pearly Braid Out Glaze
The Tropical Moringa Pearly Braid Out Glaze defines and flexibly holds braids, twists, and flyaways. It seals in all the extra moisture and restores softness and shine to the hair. This braid glaze is enriched with botanical extracts, moringa seed oil, and vitamins A, D, and E that deeply penetrate the hair shafts to replenish and restore nutrient balance.. It boosts strength, elasticity, and shine and helps styling last longer. This glaze is absorbed quickly into your scalp and hair fibers and visibly minimizes shedding and breakage to provide holistic restorative care. It is easy to rinse off and one of the best options for wash-n-go.
Key Ingredients: Castor oil, Moringa seed oil, Aloe leaf juice, Celery seed extract, Green tea extract, and Vitamins A, D, and E
Pros
- Flexible hold
- Adds shine
- Absorbed instantly
- Long-lasting
- Doesn’t stiffen hair
- Alcohol-free
- Polymer-free
Cons
- Leaves crunchy residue.
"This styling product gives my hair the moisture it craves without that unwanted tackiness. It offers a strong hold and defines my twist outs. Once you learn how to use it, the hold and definition are even better."
6. Best Weightless Formula: Sulfur8 Loc Twist and Braid Oil
This braid oil is made with an exotic blend of sunflower seed, olive, sweet almond, tea tree, and wheat germ oils and is a magic potion for braided hair. This rich and nourishing oil blend moisturizes and conditions the braids, twists, and locs. It restores the natural sheen and texture of hair shafts and promotes healthy growth. The unique blend of oils leave the scalp and cuticles with a soothing, cool sensation as they release built-up tension. The weightless formula makes it easy to spread and seep, leaving no residue on the scalp.
Key Ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, Olive oil, Sweet almond oil, Tea tree oil, and Vitamin E
Pros
- Easy to use
- Adds shines
- Non-greasy
- Absorbed quickly
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
7. Best Anti-Breakage: SheaMoisture Track Tension & Itch Relief Serum
The Jojoba Oil and Ucuuba Butter Track Tension and Itch Relief Serum by Shea Moisture is just what your braids need. This shea butter-based serum is infused with jojoba seed, ucuuba nut, carrot seed, and peppermint oils that instantly relieve tension and itching in the scalp caused by tightly braided styles and sewn-in weaves. It provides deep hydration to the hair shafts to reduce breakage and hair fall. The oil blend restores the shine, smoothness, and strength to textured hair with regular use.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Jojoba seed oil, Ucuuba nut oil, Carrot seed oil, Oat bran extract, Rice protein, and Witch hazel extract
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Weightless formula
- Pleasant scent
- Suitable for children
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- May dry out the hair.
"This serum is lightweight and non-greasy. I use it directly on my scalp for instant relief, especially after braids or weaves. It does not have a heavy scent or leave any oily residue."
8. Best For Fragile Hair: Murray’s Spray Unlock™
The Murray’s Spray Unlock™ is a perfect solution for quickly and safely removing braids and weaves without damaging the hair. It comes with a special herb and oil blend infused in a castor oil base. Hence, this spray is an excellent preparing and conditioning agent. It also contains salicylic acid that fights dry scalp and issues like seborrheic dermatitis. These ingredients prevent breakage and hair fall by protecting and nourishing individual hair strands. Due to its weightless and chemically safe composition, this spray can be used on natural and synthetic hair.
Key Ingredients: Special herb and oil blend, Castor oil, and Salicylic acid
Pros
- Works on natural and synthetic hair
- Pleasant fragrance
- Easy to use
Cons
- Leaves residue
9. Best For Dry Hair: Kuza Beeswax Hair & Braid Conditioner
This conditioner by Kuza gives incredible hold and deeply moisturizes hair and scalp under braids or weaves. It is enriched with natural beeswax and paraffin wax that supply essential fats and emollients to dry and stressed textured hair. This conditioner restores the moisture balance and releases the tension in the scalp due to braiding. It can also be used as a pomade to seal the braids, locs, twists, and other looks on kinky and coily hair.
Key Ingredients: Natural beeswax and Paraffin wax
Pros
- No residue
- Helps in easy styling
- Can be used as a pomade
- No animal testing involved
Cons
- Contains mineral oil
10. Best For Dry Scalp: Camille Rose Mint Condition Braid + Scalp Spray
Care for your hair with the Camille Rose Mint Condition spray. The product is specially designed for dry scalp that suffers from itchiness and flaking. The hydrating formula is infused with sea moss and aloe vera, which reduces irritations and locks in moisture, calming the skin. It reduces breakage and enhances natural hair growth. Essential oils olive, jojoba, castor, and tea tree oil, along with peppermint and honey, soothe the scalp and soften the hair. The deep conditioning spray also contains herbal teas, which provide refreshing nourishment for healthy scalp. It protects the hair from external aggressors.
Pros
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Suitable for all styles of hair
- Reduces breakage
- No harmful chemicals
Cons
- None
"This scalp spray has been such a good purchase for maintaining my braids. It is blended with oils that make the braids easy to manage. It keeps my hair moisturized, especially during those dry winter months. I make sure to apply it before bed and wrap the hair to enhance its effects."
Quick Tip11. Best Gel Formula: Goiple Braid, Loc, & Twist Gel
Looking for a braiding gel that won’t leave residue or any flakes? The professional-grade Giople Braid, Loc, & Twist Gel should be your pick. This strong hold gel can be used for both the edges of the hair and braiding. It gives your hair the perfect shine and leaves no residue behind. It is formulated with organic ingredients such as tea tree oil, castor oil, coconut oil, and beeswax to reduce hair damage and keep your hair nourished so they are easy to manage. This smoothing hair gel comes with a pin comb, a wide tooth comb, and a hair clip to help you achieve any hairstyle you desire.
Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, Argan oil, and Beeswax
Pros
- Adds high shine
- Provides a strong hold
- Leaves no residue
- Flake-free
- Smoothes the hair
- Eliminates frizz
Cons
- May weigh down fine hair
12. Best Sulfate-Free Formula: Esha Slick N Slay Braiding Gel
The Esha Slick N Slay Braiding Gel is a must-have product for all your hair styling needs that require extreme hold. It offers the right amount of nourishment and control without the frizziness to help your hairstyles last all day. The non-toxic, eco-friendly, and nourishing ingredients in the formula make the product safe to use on braids as well as the scalp. It has a lightweight, flake-free formula which doesn’t leave a residue. This easy-to-use gel is suitable for all hair types and promotes healthy hair growth.
Key Ingredients: Peach and Biotin
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Long-lasting hold
- No build-up
- Flake-free
Cons
- Might feel sticky
"This product works well for different hair types. It helps sleek down edges and enhance braids without leaving any flakiness or residue. It makes my coily hair soft and keep the hold even under some heat."
13. Best Gluten-Free Formula: Beachwaver Co. Braid Balm Pre-Braid Prep
The Beachwaver Co. Braid Balm Pre-Braid Prep is an innovative formula to help you achieve beautiful braided hairstyles. The foam has a smooth application and reliable grip design to ensure your braids look flawless and last all day. It is formulated with ionic + alpha bond multiplier to strengthen and nourish internal hair structure up to 3 times, while adding shine to each strand. You can use this mess-free application product for various styling possibilities.
Key Ingredients: Glycerine, Coconut fruit extracts, and Amino acids
Pros
- Provides a strong hold
- Long-lasting
- Easy to wash
- Chemical-free
- Adds shine
- Pleasant scent
- Mess-free application
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Might make the hair greasy if applied excessively.
"This product keeps my braids intact and tames flyaways. It has a coconut-like scent which truly refreshes the senses. If you feel the product is sticky or leaves residue, you might be using it incorrectly. A little goes a long way with this one!"
14. Best No-Flake Formula: The MORE Crazy Braiding Gel
Style your hair the way you want with The MORE Crazy Braiding Gel. Get an extra extreme hold without worrying about the waxy residue, flakiness, or drying alcohol. The product is formulated with nourishing black castor oil and argan oil that not only provides impeccable hold but also conditions for a healthy scalp and promotes hair growth. This transparent gel does not alter hair color, ensuring you achieve your desired style effortlessly.
Key Ingredients: Black castor oil and Argan oil
Pros
- Long-lasting hold
- Adds shine
- Conditions the hair
- Transparent color
- Easy to use
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Can be difficult to wash off
"This gel maintains my braid's neatness. It helps smoothen the edges without stiffness or flaking. It has a pleasant scent which does not feel overpowering to my senses."
15. Best Dye-Free Formula: Goiple Locks & Braids Foam Control
The Goiple Locks & Braid Foam-Control is a mousse formula that adds the finishing protective touch to your braided hairstyle. You can now create flawless hairstyles with incredible hold while easily volumizing and defining braids. Say goodbye to frizz as this foam creates a protective barrier against humidity while providing a touchable texture without the weight. It is formulated with natural and organic ingredients such as lavender flowers, leaf/stem extracts, and willow bark to lock in moisture and add shine. This hair mousse is ideal for those who prefer a natural option for their hair because it contains no alcohol, preservatives, dyes, or sulfates. This one is surely a great product to add to your everyday braid routine!
Key Ingredients: Lavender, Willow bark, and Collagen
Pros
- Long-lasting strong hold
- Pleasant fragrance
- Controls frizz and flyaways
- Adds shine
- Lightweight
- Flake-free
- Non-sticky
- Alcohol-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- May leave residue
"This braid mousse works well on various hair types and styles, from locs to twists. It leaves a light scent and has a non-sticky texture. It maintains freshness in the braids and helps reduce frizz."
16. Best Natural Formula: AK2 Naturally Divine Sea Moss and Rosemary Hair Growth Scalp Oil
The AK2 Naturally Divine Sea Moss and Rosemary Hair Growth Scalp Oil is a luxurious blend of oils and herbs that stimulate healthy hair growth. It is packed with star nourishing ingredients like rosemary oil, Jamaican black castor oil, and biotin that moisturizes, strengthens, and prevents breakage. Sea moss, hibiscus, and chamomile in the potent formula nourish your hair. This versatile hair oil is suitable for all hair types and can be used as a pre-shampoo, as a hot oil treatment, or a daily leave-in.
Key Ingredients: Rosemary oil, Jamaican black castor oil, and Biotin
Pros
- Highly nourishing
- Protects the scalp
- Enhances hair growth
- Adds shine
Cons
- May weigh down fine hair
"This hair oil has a delightful scent that makes for a treat for my senses. Using it sparingly keeps my hair hydrated. It even helps manage dandruff to some extend. The hair growth takes patience and consistency, but it surely give a healthier look to your braids and alleviate scalp itchiness."
17. Best For Hair And Skin: Nicole & Alyssa – Braid Foam and Braid Gel Combo
The ultimate Nicole & Alyssa Braid Foam and Braid Gel Combo is a dynamic duo crafted to redefine your braid experience. The foam adds volume, structure, and a touch of elegance to your braids, while the gel ensures a long-lasting hold that tames frizz and maintains your sleek hairstyle. Your braids will become a canvas of artistry and resilience with this expertly paired combo, embodying the fusion of style and quality that this pair stands for.
Key Ingredients: Tea tree oil, Castor oil, and Coconut oil
Pros
- Controls frizz
- Provides long-lasting hold
- Doesn’t leave wax residue
- Lightweight
- Fast-absorbing
Cons
- May not suit fine hair
"The Nicole & Alyssa gel and foam help maintain my hairstyles, be it braids or edges. They offer a strong hold and leave a pleasant fragrance. The products don't flake or feel greasy. The combo truly offers professional-like results."
18. Best Refreshing: Nicole & Alyssa – Braid Spray
The Nicole & Alyssa Braid Spray helps to nourish, style, and protect your braids. It is infused with a thoughtful blend of natural ingredients that retains essential moisture, promotes healthy growth, and tames frizziness to unlock stronger and shinier braids. The beautiful braiding hair product offers heat protection and shields your style from damage. This chemical-free spray embodies the perfect balance of nourishment and style, elevating your braids to new heights with high quality.
Key Ingredients: Castor oil, Panthenol, and Jojoba seed oil
Pros
- Soothes itchy scalp
- Adds shine
- Moisturizing
- Offers heat protection
- Lightweight
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- May need frequent reapplication for a strong hold
"This braid spray has such a wonderful scent that feels truly refreshing. It keeps my braids looking fresh and there's never a dull moment. It even alleviates itchiness and adds a good amount of moisture. It also helps detangle my hair easily."
Infographic: Tips To Take Care Of Braids The Right Way
Braids are not only a great fashion statement, but they are also protective hairstyles for your hair. They prevent hair breakage and keep your locks healthy. If you know the best braiding tips and products, you can take care of them easily. Check out this infographic to learn the best ways to use braid hair products and care for your braids. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Braiding your hair is the best protective styling that minimizes split ends, tames the frizz, nourishes your hair, and prevents hair breakage. In addition, sleeping with braided hair improves hair strength. However, you should keep your hair tight enough. Additionally, you can even try knotless braids that help reduce scalp tension and create a more natural look. The best braid maintenance products soothe your itchy scalp, condition your hair, prevent hair breakage, and minimize the stress on hair texture. The BLACK PANTHER STRONG! Diamond Edges Braid Tamer is a non-greasy, strong hold pomade suitable for fine hair, while the Carol’s Daughter Curl Defining Butter is ideal for curly or textured hair as it reduces frizz and adds moisture. If you want a cooling sensation that relieves itchiness, you can try the Camille Rose Mint Condition Braid + Scalp Spray. In addition, consider investing in hair products that add shine to your hair, detangle the frizz, aid in easy styling and contain nourishing ingredients that provide restorative care. But stay away from the products that do not suit your hair type and may cause adverse effects. Also, make sure that all products you choose suit braid and loc-friendly hair!
Why Trust Stylecraze
Oyendrila Kanjilal is a certified skin care coach with a deep interest in reviewing skin care and hair care products for her readers. She scanned multiple products before curating this list of the best hair products for healthy and luscious braids. In addition to researching all products thoroughly, she compared their features and benefits to help you pick a product best suited to your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do braiders use mousse?
Hair braiders use foam mousse rather than hair gels while braiding to prevent flakes and buildup. Hair mousses are lightweight and also provide a smooth finish. They help your braids last longer, control frizz, and keep them healthy and shiny.
Should I put any product in my hair before braiding?
It is better to moisturize and keep the hair hydrated before wearing braids. Use natural hair products for braids with ingredients like coconut oil or olive oil that offer deep moisturization.
How do you moisturize braids?
Use leave-in conditioners and natural oils to moisturize your braids. Spray crude oil or apply conditioner to your hair, starting from your scalp and moving down to your hair tips.
Why do my braids itch at night?
Braids that stay long dry out due to lack of moisture. Not washing the hair for long days accumulates sebum, dead skin cells, and pollution that can cause itching.
What oil do you use for braids?
You can choose hair oils and include them in your natural hair care routine based on your hair type. Ideally, coconut oil, castor oil, and peppermint leaf oil are blended to keep your hair moisturized, soothe itching, and prevent breakage.
Should I put gel on my braids?
Gels and pomades are the easiest products to avoid frizz and are good braid care products. A good gel coats the hair and conceals split ends and flyaways, as with any good quality braid styling product.
How long should you keep braids in?
Usually, braids last between two to eight weeks, depending on your hair type and style of braiding. Regular cleansing and moisturizing will increase the longevity of the braids.
Read full bio of Kristina Maccaro
Read full bio of Oyendrila Kanjilal
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.