The braidÖeveryone's favorite easy, chic hairstyle. But did you know your favorite go-to hairstyle may be causing more damage to your hair than you think. Tight braids can wreak havoc on your hair, unless you start following these 10 simple tips and tricks for braided hairstyles. And while you're at it, give these 3 easy braided hairstyles a try!

1. Keep your braids loose

Keeping your hair in a tight braid (or even a tight ponytail for that matter) can cause your hair to break away from its roots, resulting in splitting, hair weakness and follicle damage. Too tight braids can also cause tensile stress which can then lead to serious hair loss conditions like traction alopecia. Instead, wear your braid loose and change up your hairstyle every few days so you're not putting the same stress on your hair.

2. Use Pure Fiji's Nourishing Exotic Oil for your braided hairstyles

To keep your hair damage free, you need to make sure you are only using enough tension to create even smooth braids. Using a hair oil while braiding will help keep it smooth and keep fly-aways under control. Pure Fiji's exotic bath and body oil not only moisturizes your hair, it also nourishes and protects. Regular use of this heavenly blend of coconut and exotic nut extracts on your hair can dramatically reduce protein loss and damage that occurs during styling and braiding. Use it as an overnight treatment to improve the overall health and vitality of your hair.

3. Don't sleep in braids

Try your best to avoid sleeping in braids every single night if you can. But if it's something you really can't bear to pass up, take the right precautions before you do. Keep your braid loose and always make sure your hair is dry - not wet - before you braid.

4. Sleep on silk

Want to really do wonders for your beauty routine? Try sleeping on a silk pillowcase. The texture of the silk helps to keep your hair smooth and will make your braids look that much better in the morning.

5. Be gentle with your braids

When braiding your hair, always remember to do so gently. Take your time and try not to rush through by pulling and ripping your strands. Instead, apply your Pure Fiji Nourishing Exotic Oil first, then braid. Your hair will be easier to work with and you won't have to rip apart your beautiful strands.

6. Choose the right hair elastics for your braids

What you choose to tie your hair with can make all the difference. Try picking hair elastics that won't damage your hair, like fabric or snag free elastics. Never use a rubber band or elastics with metal on your hair as they will definitely cause some damage!

7. Never braid wet hair

Braiding your hair when wet is almost guaranteed to cause damage because wet hair is more fragile and prone to breakage.

8. Experiment with new braided styles

Always wearing your hair the same way, tied in the same spot can weaken the hair shaft which can result in breakage. Instead of always wearing the same style, switch it up! Braid your hair on the opposite side than you normally would or try one of the 3 braided hairstyles below for a fresh look.

Source: http://ispydiy.com/2013/11/14/ask-the-expert-twisted-top-knot/

Source: http://www.gurl.com/2015/07/01/easy-no-heat-hairstyle-tutorials-summer-for-long-hair/

Source: http://www.barefootblonde.com/2015/10/double-dutch-braid-bun-how-to/

9. Protect your braids with a night cap

This one might sound old fashioned, but wearing a night cap to bed can really protect your hair, especially if you wear a loose braid to bed. Sometimes your braid can come undone in the middle of the night, so wearing a night cap to bed will ensure your braid stays in place.

10. Be careful how you brush your hair

Before you style your hair you might think to brush it first - but be warned. Brushing hair causes unnecessary friction that can lead to breakage and split ends, especially when your hair is wet. Instead, finger comb your hair before you style.

Wearing your hair in braids doesn't always have to mean damage to your strands. Just do so in moderation - if you decide to do a tight braid one day, make sure you give your strands a break the next. Here are 3 easy braided hairstyle tutorials for you to try the next time you want that braided look.

A great braided hairstyle doesn't have to come at the cost of your hair. You can still have the style you want without all that damage. Just make sure you're following the tips above and using all-natural beauty products like Pure Fiji's Nourishing Exotic Oil and their sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners.