Summer’s calling and your spring braids have done their job. They’ve carried you through the season: the errands, the plans, the glow-ups, and maybe even a few plot twists. But now? It’s time to let go and make room for what’s next.
This isn’t just a takedown, it’s a reset. A chance to give your scalp some fresh air, to detangle more than just your hair, and to ease into summer feeling lighter, softer, and more in tune with yourself.
Let this be your reminder: removing your braids doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With the right energy (and snacks, music, and mindset), it can become your favorite kind of ritual. The kind where self-care looks like slowing down and showing up for you.
So whether you're prepping for a new install or ready to let your curls take the spotlight, here's how to romanticize takedown day and make it your first soft step into summer.
1. Set the Vibe First
Before you even touch a braid, get the energy right. Create a relaxing environment!
Open a window or find a cozy spot with AC
Light a candle or burn an incense
Put on some comfy clothes
Throw on your favorite summer playlist (we made one for you 👉🏾 Unbraid & Unwind: Summer Edition)
✨ Think soft energy, clear head, chill mood. Takedown day should feel like care, not punishment.
2. Hydrate Your Hair, Then Yourself
That buildup? That tightness? That flake that’s probably product and dry shampoo? Yeah—it’s time. Time to hydrate from the inside out.
What You’ll Need:
The Original UnBraider (ofc)
A braid takedown spray, we recommend our Comb Out Spray Conditioner or the Braid Spray from our friends at Braid Miracle.
Hair clips or scrunchies
Summer drink of choice, we're dying to try this healthy and refreshing Lemon Ginger Berry Green Tea recipe by @fayette_nyehn, she has plenty of recipes on her page that we'll be trying all summer long.
@fayette_nyehnWash day has entered the chat 💦🧴
♬ original sound - FAYETTE NYEHN
3. Break It Down Like a Summer Road Trip
Would you try to hit 6 destinations in one day? No? Then don’t tackle your whole head at once. It's a labor of love that requires time and patience!
Section your hair into 4–6 parts
Clip away what you’re not working on
Tackle one section at a time using The UnBraider for speed + ease
✨ Don't forget to mist each braid from mid-length to ends before you start. Moisture = less friction, less breakage, and way more peace.
Here's a quick rundown tutorial from our recent giveaway winner @meg_yourstruly,
4. Take a Snack + Stretch Break (Because You’re Human)
Takedown takes time. Don’t run on vibes alone. Prepare yourself a nice little snack and get some good stretches in!
Easy Braid-Day Snacks:
Grab your takedown snacks, we’re talking chilled fruit (grapes, watermelon, mango), a salty crunch (popcorn, seaweed snacks, pretzels... maybe even Hot Cheetos 👀), and something sweet like a popsicle or a scoop of sorbet. Don’t forget your water! Hydration is always that girl.
Lately, we’ve been obsessed with the adult snack boxes by @raexhunt—they’re cute, convenient, and totally takedown-approved.
Bonus points if you throw on a comfort show (we’re team Girlfriends, Abbott Elementary, or Living Single) to carry you through.
Just don’t get too comfy—The UnBraider makes takedown day fly by 😉
@raexhuntSnack boxes for adults 🍓
♬ original sound - raexhunt
5. Give Your Scalp the Love She Deserves
She’s been carrying all that tension, heat, and synthetic hair for weeks, or months 👀. Let her live. Having a consistent post-unbraid hair care ritual will help keep your scalp and hair hydrated, healthy, and flake-free!
You’ve made it through the last braid! But don’t rush straight into the shower just yet. How you treat your hair after unbraiding can make a major difference in how soft, clean, and easy your wash day will be.
Here’s what to do before you reach for the shampoo:
Finger detangle first: Just like @ashdemples shows in her routine, start by gently separating your hair with your fingers. This helps you feel for tangles and sheds without yanking, giving your curls a softer start.
Add oil before detangling fully: Apply a nourishing oil or pre-poo to help loosen buildup and add slip. This step reduces breakage and sets the tone for a hydrated wash.
Don’t skip the scalp massage: If your scalp’s been under tension for a few weeks, it deserves some love. Use your fingertips or a scalp massager to get blood flowing and lift residue.
Use a wide-tooth comb last: Once your hair is coated and soft, go in with a wide-tooth comb to finish detangling. If you're using The UnBraider again for this part—yes, it's multi-use!—start from the ends and work your way up.
Following these steps can help prevent knots, reduce wash-day stress, and leave your curls ready for deep conditioning or your next protective style.
🧖🏾♀️ Not washing today? Throw your hair into a few juicy twists, a pineapple puff, or rock your fro with pride.
@ashdemplesUnbraid to wash day routine 🧼🌀
♬ original sound - ashdemples
6. End With a Reset Moment
You made it to the finish line and your scalp is singing. Now it’s time to soak up that fresh-hair freedom and give yourself the soft landing you deserve.
Warm a little oil between your palms and massage it into your scalp like a love letter.
Wrap your hair in a satin scarf or bonnet to lock in the moisture.
Put on a sheet mask, some under-eye patches, or whatever makes you feel held.
Take a long, steamy shower to wash away the shed hairs, buildup, and the week.
Then cozy up in your favorite hoodie, order something delicious, and relax.
This is your time to reset—because self-care days hit different when you’ve been showing up all season.
@xarabeqSelf care days > everything else 🛁
♬ original sound - Xara
What NOT to Do on Takedown Day 🙅🏾♀️
❌ Don’t start on dry, tangled hair—your strands deserve softness, not struggle.
❌ Don’t rush the process. This isn’t a race, it’s a ritual.
❌ Don’t rip through buildup—let your scalp release gently.
❌ Don’t skip detangling just because you’re tired. Your future wash day will thank you.
❌ And please… don’t reach for the safety pin. We’re leaving that in the past, sis.
Let this be your reminder: don’t stress this summer. Take your time, pour into yourself, and let The UnBraider do the heavy lifting. You’ve got enough on your plate—your takedown routine shouldn’t be one of them. 💆🏾♀️✨
Ready to Make Takedown a Breeze?
The UnBraider is your shortcut to less breakage, faster takedown, and more scalp freedom. Whether you’re switching to a new style or letting your hair breathe, this is how we reset—for real.