If my hair is braided, I don’t have to do anything to it.

Yes, you do. First, it’s important to start off with a healthy head of hair, Toure says. If your hair is damaged, you should not wear an extension-braided style.

Stylists recommend a protein treatment, followed by a good conditioner to repair damaged hair before braiding it. If you do wear braids, be sure to wash your hair at least once a week. It’s not OK to go longer than a week. Because you’re not brushing or combing your hair on a daily basis, dirt and oil have more time to build up.

Braids are a good alternative when you want to give your hair a break from constant heat styling — curling irons and flat irons — but don’t overdo it! Depending on the style, most experts recommend wearing your braids anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months.