Is Braiding Bad for You?

Ponytails and braids -- "Ponytails and braids can cause hair to break, especially if your style is pulled tightly," Mirmirani says. "If you wear it that way every day, permanent hair damage can occur." Braiding or putting your hair in a ponytail when it's wet can cause damage sooner because wet hair is more fragile.

Is it healthy to braid your hair?

“Braiding the hair is a good, protective practice that can save your hair from any breakage as it strengthens the hair structurally. In fact, a loosely-tied braid can work alongside your body's natural process to boost hair growth,” Shah explains.

Is it bad to wear braids all the time?

Here's the truth:

I would say it is best to err on the side of caution and keep your braids in for no longer than 8 weeks as long as your hair and scalp show no sign of distress. If you notice any breakage or persistent tenderness then it's a good idea to take your braids out to curtail any damage.