The ancient art of braiding has been around since early Egyptian times. Just like other styles have evolved, braiding has changed greatly since it was first introduced. This traditional hairstyle is still being passed on from generation to generation in African cultures, and the same holds true for American society!
The ''basic braid'' is most commonly seen and is the most well known of all the braiding styles. A basic braid consists of separate strands of hair, three to be exact, that are criss-crossed over each other to form one braid. For the majority of styles, braids start from the forehead or crown area of a persons head. Be sure not to get microbraids confused with cornrows. Cornrows lay flat on the head, while microbraids are free flowing and hang down.
Here are few tips to keep in mind for Micro Braids:
*Healthy hair is easier to maintain, and micro braids can be stressful on the hair. Try getting a deep-conditioning treatment before braiding. Trimming the hair to remove split ends could cause less stray hairs from popping out of the braid.
*Check with your stylist prior to getting micro braids if your hair has been relaxed.
*If you're adding extension hair to your braids to make your hair fuller and longer, opt for the type of hair that matches the middle or ends of your hair. The roots of your hair always appear darker.
*If you have micro braids, don't use any thick and heavy shampoos, conditioners, or pomades. These types of products can leave residue on your braids and could cause an itchy, flaky scalp. Try using a ''dry'' shampoo or astringent to clean the scalp.
*Micro braids can encourage growth; however it is very important to properly care for the hair before, during and after getting micro braids. Before you get them be sure to have your stylist give you a deep condition. While the hair is braided be sure to keep the scalp clean and moisturized with a creme based moisturizer. Once you remove the braids be sure to wash, and deep condition the hair as well.
*Your micro braids should ALWAYS be completed by a professional stylist. The reason for this is because having braids that are too tight or too small can put undesired weight and tension on the scalp, as a result this could cause traction alopecia.
*Eating healthy food, drinking plenty of water, maintaining regular sleeping habits, and avoiding unnecessary stress are always good tips. The better health you are in, the better health your hair will be in, too.
Many people desire micro braids because they are very versatile when it comes to styling possibilities. They are also one of the easier styles to care for. You can't just leave your braids alone and expect them to look beautiful day after day. For beautiful braids, make sure you are moisturizing and conditioning regularly. If your styling products are too thick, you can dilute them slightly so they will be less likely to cause build up on the scalp.
Micro braids should be worn for a maximum of three months. Wearing them for longer than that could damage your natural hair. When you ready to take out your braids, snip the braid at the beginning of the extension hair, but make sure not to cut your natural hair. With wet hair, comb and pick the ends with a medium-toothed comb. Start doing this at the bottom and work your way up to the root. When this is complete, it's important to wash your hair at least once with a clarifying shampoo. Regular shampoos don't remove dirt and debris like clarifying shampoos do. After washing with clarifying shampoo, wash and condition your hair like you normally would. Then dry and style just like you always do!
The ''basic braid'' is most commonly seen and is the most well known of all the braiding styles. A basic braid consists of separate strands of hair, three to be exact, that are criss-crossed over each other to form one braid. For the majority of styles, braids start from the forehead or crown area of a persons head. Be sure not to get microbraids confused with cornrows. Cornrows lay flat on the head, while microbraids are free flowing and hang down.
Here are few tips to keep in mind for Micro Braids:
*Healthy hair is easier to maintain, and micro braids can be stressful on the hair. Try getting a deep-conditioning treatment before braiding. Trimming the hair to remove split ends could cause less stray hairs from popping out of the braid.
*Check with your stylist prior to getting micro braids if your hair has been relaxed.
*If you're adding extension hair to your braids to make your hair fuller and longer, opt for the type of hair that matches the middle or ends of your hair. The roots of your hair always appear darker.
*If you have micro braids, don't use any thick and heavy shampoos, conditioners, or pomades. These types of products can leave residue on your braids and could cause an itchy, flaky scalp. Try using a ''dry'' shampoo or astringent to clean the scalp.
*Micro braids can encourage growth; however it is very important to properly care for the hair before, during and after getting micro braids. Before you get them be sure to have your stylist give you a deep condition. While the hair is braided be sure to keep the scalp clean and moisturized with a creme based moisturizer. Once you remove the braids be sure to wash, and deep condition the hair as well.
*Your micro braids should ALWAYS be completed by a professional stylist. The reason for this is because having braids that are too tight or too small can put undesired weight and tension on the scalp, as a result this could cause traction alopecia.
*Eating healthy food, drinking plenty of water, maintaining regular sleeping habits, and avoiding unnecessary stress are always good tips. The better health you are in, the better health your hair will be in, too.
Many people desire micro braids because they are very versatile when it comes to styling possibilities. They are also one of the easier styles to care for. You can't just leave your braids alone and expect them to look beautiful day after day. For beautiful braids, make sure you are moisturizing and conditioning regularly. If your styling products are too thick, you can dilute them slightly so they will be less likely to cause build up on the scalp.
Micro braids should be worn for a maximum of three months. Wearing them for longer than that could damage your natural hair. When you ready to take out your braids, snip the braid at the beginning of the extension hair, but make sure not to cut your natural hair. With wet hair, comb and pick the ends with a medium-toothed comb. Start doing this at the bottom and work your way up to the root. When this is complete, it's important to wash your hair at least once with a clarifying shampoo. Regular shampoos don't remove dirt and debris like clarifying shampoos do. After washing with clarifying shampoo, wash and condition your hair like you normally would. Then dry and style just like you always do!
About the Author:
Marquetta, founder of Braids By Breslin, has been braiding and weaving hair for over 14 years. For instructional DVD's on micro braids, please visit Marquetta's website.
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