Why do I Have Braid Bumps On My Scalp?

Braid bumps are some of the worst things to see on your scalp after making a hairstyle. But what are they? Are they normal? How many braid bumps should be a cause for concern? 

Let's talk about these questions and more. 

What Are Braid Bumps?

They are small, inflamed bumps that appear on the scalp. These bumps are usually found around the hairline (the edges) or at the nape of your neck, caused by very tight hairstyles. 

Another name for braided bumps is tension bumps.  When the scalp follicles are inflamed and become infected, this form of Braid bump is called scalp folliculitis.

Note: Some bumps might occur due to clogged pores from use of too many products, buildup and the like. The focus of this article is on bumps caused by tension. 

You might wonder, Why is this important to know? This is why.  Your scalp is essential to your hair growth and hair care. The scalp follicles hold your hair strands, so if they keep getting inflamed and infected, what happens?  Your guess is as good as ours- your hair growth would be affected. 

So, if you always notice braid bumps when you braid, what can you do to prevent or manage them? 

How To Manage and Prevent Braid Bumps

1. Speak to your stylist to manage braid bumps

Braid bumps happen when your braids are so tight that they exert pressure on your scalp.  A bump could mean that your stylist might be holding your braids too tightly. Speak to your stylist about loosening her grip as she braids your hair. This will prevent it from recurring 

As for the natural hair girls who have the superpower of being their own stylists 😁, when you notice braid bumps, take note of why they occurred in the first place. Was it after you braided your hair? Or, like the next tip would show, when you styled it. 

2. Avoid styling your hair tightly to prevent braid bumps

If you observe that when you braid your hair, there are no bumps, but after styling in a bun, for example, you notice bumps.  It's a clear sign that your bun might be too tight, and it's pulling your strands. It may be other styles as well. Reduce the tension on your hair by adjusting the style.

3. Take down the braid

Now, this might seem very drastic, but if the bumps are severe and inflamed, bringing out pus, you need to take down the hairstyle.

Also, note that if the braids give you a headache or throbbing pain, it's also a sign for you to take them down.  Beauty doesn't always have to be pain, girlies. 

4. Try an oil massage 

Use lightweight oils to gently massage the affected area.  Oils that have a soothing effect can soothe and reduce the inflammation, so your scalp can feel better.  Natural aloe vera gel can also help to soothe the scalp.

5. Use a hair steamer

A steam cap can soothe the pain and help you feel better. Steam opens the hair pores and loosens the braids.  Just wear the steam cap like you would when deep conditioning your hair. Make sure you don't pull on your braids to prevent more discomfort. 

6. Take a braid break

Yes. You don't have to braid your hair all the time. Once you notice you get braid bumps a lot, take a breather. Give your scalp space.  Allow air to pass through your hair, give your scalp time to rest and rejuvenate.

Let's discuss how to manage and prevent braid bumps, let's answer some questions regarding braid bumps. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Braid Bumps

1. Should I pop the bumps?

Absolutely not. Please, don't pop the bumps. We understand they can be really red, and painful. Popping them might make things worse.

2. How long does it take for the bumps to go away?

A few days to about two weeks. Usually, once you take away the reason for the pump, for minor bumps, it is resolved in a few days. But if after two weeks, the bump has an odor and is not healing, then you need to see a doctor. 

Wrapping up 

While braid bumps can be awful and discomforting, we are confident that with these tips, you can feel better and prevent them altogether.