Indentations most often occur from cornrows or other hairstyles where braids, hair fasteners or other accessories apply constant pressure on the scalp. These indentations are similar to the indentations that form behind your ears after wearing glasses for an extended period of time. Indentations can also occur if you wear hats or tight head wraps while your hair is braided. The braids are pressed against the scalp, resulting in tenderness and indentations.
Remove the braids. Ideally, all braids should be removed. If this is not possible or desirable, remove the braids in the immediate area of the indentation. Brush out the unbraided hair.
Apply a drop of vitamin E oil to the affected region of the scalp. Using a circular motion, massage it into the scalp for 20 minutes.
Wash and condition your hair. Pay special attention to the indented area of scalp.
Leave the hair unbraided and allow the scalp to "rest" for 48 hours. Massage the region for 20-minute increments several times a day to improve blood flow. Use a drop of oil if desired.
Re-braid the hair once the indentations have disappeared. Avoid extremely tight braids, as this can cause irritation to the recently-irritated scalp. End each braid with a bit of hot wax or a hair fastener.