Removing micro braids can be a long and tedious process, sometimes taking between two to four hours. If not removed properly, micro braids can cause extensive breakage and hair loss. While a professional stylist can take out micro braids, they can also be removed at home.

To properly remove micro braids, begin by cutting the braid where the extension hair starts. Be careful not to cut your natural hair. Next, wet your hair and apply a removal cream or braid removal spray. Removal cream keeps the braids from locking, making the extensions easier to remove. Make sure the cream or spray you use is thoroughly applied and massaged into the hair so knots can be detangled more easily. Some braids may slip out on their own after application of the cream or spray.

Begin braid removal at the middle of the head. Using a medium-toothed comb, pick apart the ends of the braids and work your way up to the root. After you reach the root of your natural hair, comb the braid out so that the hair extension will slip out.

After all the hair extensions have been removed, wash your hair using a clarifying shampoo. It is important to use a clarifying shampoo first in order to remove all the dirt, debris and oil from the hair. After applying the clarifying shampoo, use a regular shampoo and conditioner and dry and style your hair as you normally would.