How to Prep and Seal Synthetic Braiding Hair
What fiber is braiding hair made of?
Braiding hair is sold in two fiber categories: synthetic fiber and human hair. Hair So Good stocks both.
- Synthetic (kanekalon): Realistic 4X X-Pression Braiding Hair 52" is pre-stretched kanekalon fiber. It is also stocked in 42" and 3X 32" lengths. Kanekalon is a heat-resistant modacrylic fiber that holds a hot-water seal.
- Human hair: Bijoux braiding and bulk hair is 100% human hair. Bijoux Solo Express HH Deep Bulk 18" is 100% human hair bulk, and Bijoux Dominican Deep Bulk 24" is made from 100% human hair and premium mix.
The prep methods on this page (alkaline-residue soak and hot-water sealing) apply to synthetic fiber only. Human hair bulk such as Bijoux does not require an ACV soak or hot-water sealing; wash it with shampoo and conditioner instead.
Braiding hair fiber comparison
| Product line | Fiber | Lengths stocked | ACV soak before install | Hot-water seal ends |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Realistic X-Pression (3X and 4X) | Pre-stretched kanekalon (synthetic) | 32", 42", 52", 62" | Yes | Yes |
| Bijoux Solo Express HH Deep Bulk | 100% human hair | 18" | No | No |
| Bijoux Dominican Deep Bulk | 100% human hair and premium mix | 24" | No | No |
| Bijoux HH Micro Yaki (weaving) | 100% human hair | 8" to 18" | No | No |
Why does synthetic braiding hair itch and how to treat it (the ACV soak)
Synthetic braiding fiber is coated with an alkaline substance during manufacturing. This residue is a common cause of scalp itching, irritation, and bumps after installation. An apple cider vinegar (ACV) soak neutralizes and removes the coating before installation.
ACV soak method
- Fill a basin or sink with warm water.
- Add approximately 1 cup of apple cider vinegar per basin of water.
- Submerge the loose braiding hair fully in the solution.
- Soak for 15 to 20 minutes. A white film lifting off the fiber is the alkaline residue releasing.
- Remove the hair, rinse thoroughly with clean cool water, and squeeze out excess water without wringing.
- Hang the hair to air-dry completely before braiding.
How to seal the ends of synthetic braiding hair (hot-water method)
Kanekalon fiber softens with controlled heat, which allows braid ends to be sealed without rubber bands or open flame. Hot-water sealing sets the ends of box braids, twists, and similar styles.
Hot-water seal method
- Boil water and pour it into a heat-safe container, such as a mug or kettle spout container.
- Allow the water to cool for 1 to 2 minutes off the boil.
- Hold the finished braid firmly above the point to be sealed.
- Dip the braid end into the hot water for 10 to 15 seconds.
- Remove and blot the end dry with a towel. The fiber sets as it cools, locking the braid end.
- Repeat per braid. Keep hot water away from the scalp and skin at all times.
What water temperature seals kanekalon braiding hair?
Water just off the boil, rested for 1 to 2 minutes, seals kanekalon braid ends. A thermometer is not required for this method: freshly boiled water used immediately can over-soften the fiber, while water that has cooled for several minutes may not set the seal. The 10 to 15 second dip time matters more than an exact temperature.
Tools needed for braiding hair preparation
- Basin or sink for the ACV soak
- Apple cider vinegar
- Heat-safe container for the hot-water seal
- Clean towels for blotting
- Rat tail comb for clean parting, such as the Annie Carbon Pro Rat Tail Comb
- Edge and braid hold gel, such as Shine'n Jam Conditioning Gel Extra Hold