Why Your Hair Keeps Breaking During Takedown (And How to Fix It)

If you’ve ever taken down your braids or twists and felt like you lost way too much hair, you’re not alone.

A lot of people assume it’s just their hair type or genetics, but most of the time, it comes down to habits.

Hair breakage during takedown is usually preventable, and with a few changes, you can keep your hair healthier, longer, and stronger.

Let’s get into it.

1. Taking Down Dry Hair

One of the biggest mistakes people make is taking down their hair while it’s completely dry.

Dry hair is more fragile and prone to snapping, especially after being in a protective style for weeks.

Before you start your takedown:

• Lightly spray your hair with water or a mix of water and conditioner

• Use your hands and work through to ensure the product is spread evenly

• Then gently start from the ends and work your way up

This alone can significantly reduce breakage.

2. Detangling Without Moisture

Detangling dry hair is one of the fastest ways to cause unnecessary shedding and breakage.

When your hair is dry, there’s no slip, which means more pulling, more tension, and more damage.

Instead:

• Always detangle on damp or moisturized hair
• Use a wide-tooth comb when detangling

• Use a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray

• Take your time and be gentle

Your hair shouldn’t feel like a struggle to comb through. Get your ends trimmed as well.

Products that make takedown easier

• African Pride Moisture Miracle Curl Milk & Detangler (my personal favourite)

• As I Am Jamaican Black Castor Oil Water

• As I Am  Rice Water Spray

• Pre-shampoo treatments

3. Your Body Affects Your Hair

Hair health isn’t just about what you put on it; it’s also about what’s going on inside your body.

Low levels of iron & vitamin D can lead to weaker strands and increased shedding.

This is especially common if you live in colder places with less sunlight.

Taking care of your body supports your hair more than you think.

4. What You Do While Your Hair Is in a Style Matters

A lot of people install braids or twists and completely forget about their hair until takedown day.

But your hair still needs care while it’s in the style.

Neglecting it can lead to dryness, buildup, breakage during takedown

To keep your hair healthy:

• Moisturize your scalp regularly

• Avoid excessive pulling or playing with your hair

• Keep your scalp clean when needed

Protective styles only work if your hair is actually being protected.

Healthy hair isn’t just about one day; it’s about day one. Consistency is important.

From how you install your styles to how you maintain them to how you take them down, it all matters.

Once you fix these small habits, you’ll start to see a real difference in your hair.

For more real, simple hair care tips, follow along on my page @madebymk._ and stay tuned for more from Muna’s Hair Journal.