Apply a warm water rinse to soften the braids
Use a leave-in conditioner or braid spray on the scalp and braid length
Gently massage the scalp with your fingertips
Loosen the braids slightly at the roots with clean hands
Pull the braids apart very gently to reduce tension
Use a wide-tooth comb only on the ends if needed
Rebraid sections more loosely if they are too tight
Take breaks and avoid keeping tight braids in for too long
Remove the braids if they cause pain, swelling, or headaches