11/06/2026
Wash it two days before. Not the night before.
If you've got an install booked this weekend, this is the timeline nobody gives you — plus the one product you should deliberately leave off.
Two days out, clarify. Chebe African Soap Clarifying Shampoo, $12. Buildup braided under for six weeks is how you end up with an itchy, flaking install.
Two days out, deep condition properly. Chebe Deep Conditioning Hair Mask, $15, a full thirty minutes. This is your last real one for weeks, so don't rush it.
The day before, stretch it dry. Threaded, banded or loose twists — and fully dry. Damp hair braided tight will smell by day four.
The morning of, almost nothing. A light oil on the scalp only. Chebe Hair Growth Oil, $13.
And leave the butter off. Versatile Buttercream before an install makes the hair slip in your braider's hands. Save it for take-down day.
All four prep steps together are the Chebe Collection, $50 — which hits free shipping exactly. Or grab them at the machine today: Willow Grove Mall, 3rd floor, across from Macy's, between the elevator and the escalators.