Braids in Punta Cana: a Caribbean tradition

Many of the people who come to Punta Cana to sunbathe return from their trip with a new hairstyle. Braids are a tradition, and in fact some people schedule a visit to the hairdresser as part of their experience, whether they wear their hair long or need to get extensions to show off spectacular hair both on the beach and on their return from vacation.

The origin of braids in Punta Cana seems to come from beyond the ocean. Everything points to the fact that they began to be done in Africa centuries ago, as a way to protect the hair from the elements. They later spread to the Caribbean, and have since become part of the Dominican Republic's identity.

The fame of this Caribbean tradition is such that there are many places where you can have your braids done. From the hairdresser's at the hotel where you are staying to the beach itself, where there are small stalls and people who go from one place to another offering their services and are dedicated to combing the hair of those who put themselves in their hands in this way. Although the most famous is Gladys, who has a stall in Cortecito and many travelers ask for her upon their arrival in Punta Cana.

There are several reasons why you may decide to braid your hair when you travel to Punta Cana. The first is that the humidity and heat can make your hair tangle easily and feel heavy, especially if you have long hair. Braids are one of the most comfortable ways to keep it under control and out of the way.

In addition, braids are a way to have a practical and long-lasting hairstyle during your vacation. You can create a wide variety of styles, and since they stay perfect for several weeks you don't even need to comb your hair.

Another benefit of braiding your hair during your Punta Cana vacation is that they help protect your hair from exposure to chlorine from the pools, sea water and the sun's rays. If you want to keep your hair healthy, braiding your hair is a good option.

However, be careful not to burn your head if you are going to sunbathe with braids. Your hair will be protected, but your scalp is more exposed and you could suffer the consequences. It is recommended to wear a cap to protect your head when you are at the beach, especially during the sun's most intense hours.

You can also wear braids as a souvenir of your trip, and return home with a look that will make you think for a long time about how much fun you had visiting this corner of the Caribbean. I'm sure everyone who sees you will realize that you had an unforgettable vacation, and you will remember it every time you look in the mirror and see that everything is in place.

The price of braids in Punta Cana depends on where you do them and how your hair is. It also depends on the style you are looking for, because it is not the same to braid a ponytail and secure it with rubber bands than to do box braids from the root of the hair or put extensions.

Keep in mind that braiding your hair can take more or less time, something that can also influence the price. In any case, considering the results and advantages, the price is quite economical.

If you decide to braid your braids in Punta Cana and want them to last longer, here are some tips to take care of them:

• Wash your braids regularly. Although, as we said before, braids can last for weeks without having to comb your hair, it is important to wash and brush them from time to time so that dirt does not accumulate. This way you can enjoy cleaner and softer braids.
• Use a specific product to take care of your braids. There are shampoos, conditioners and scalp oils with gentle formulas specifically for braided hair that moisturize the hair. You can ask the person who did your braids to give you some more tips.
• Wear a headband to sleep. If you move around a lot at night, your braids are likely to disturb your hair and damage it. To avoid this, you can wear a headband that will hold them in place so they don't get in the way.
• Avoid products with alcohol, which dry out the hair and can make it more brittle.
• Untangle braids carefully. As time passes, braids can become more prone to tangling. When you want to loosen them, use a wide-toothed comb that is soft, or a brush to gently detangle your hair.

If you are thinking of having your hair braided in Punta Cana and enjoying this tradition, we hope we have helped you to resolve any doubts you may have about it, so get your hair done Caribbean style!