I had my second wash day with my braids over the weekend (I have had them for 4 weeks). I was travelling, so I didn’t have all my usual products and tools at my disposal. I packed my applicator bottle and some trial size products for this wash day. I love trial size products for exactly this reason, they are travel friendly.

I went swimming prior to washing my hair and I didn’t do any protective measures like applying oils or conditioner and I didn’t wear a swimming cap. I had to rinse my hair thoroughly afterwards to get rid of the chemicals before I started washing it.

I used the Nourishing Conditioner from Dr Miracle’s Curl Care range for cowashing, I mixed it with water in an applicator bottle and spread the mixture all over my scalp and hair. I went on with my shower while the mixture was in my hair. I rinsed it out after 10 or so minutes. I wrapped my hair in a towel until it stopped dripping.

I then applied the Boosting & Defining Leave In Conditioner from the same range and let the braids air dry,they dried much faster this time because the temperature was in around 30 degrees Celsius and the sun was out! The next morning when the braids were completely dry, I sprayed some of my moisturising braid spray. Later in the evening I applied some oil mix on my scalp and massaged.

Even though this was a quick and dirty wash day, my hair (the new growth at the base of my braid) feels soft. I am planning to do a complete wash day after I take down the braids in a few days and also clarify/chelate my hair to get rid of any of the chemicals that might still be left.

Can I please have some suggestions of clarifying or chelating shampoos, preferably available in South Africa? I only know of the ORS Creamy Aloe and using bicarbonate of soda.