While braids have been used as an effective protective style for years, they can be more than a functional tool. Whether you choose something simple or a more intricate style, braids can be a great way to make quite the fashion statement. It’s just a matter of choosing what suits you.
What Is Hair Braiding?
Hair braiding is a form of styling that involves intertwining two or more strands of hair. The style can involve using only your natural hair or commercial hair.
Hair braiding can result in simple or more complicated styles while using different types of hair. In the beginning, this was a skill that was passed down within families but it’s now become an expected offering in African American salons.
RELATED: Helpful or Harmful? The Truth About “Protective” Hairstyles
Are Braids Bad For Your Hair?
Whether or not braids are bad for your hair depends on the type of braids you use and how they’re installed. Any style that uses heavier types of hair will put more pressure on your natural hair and roots. That makes it more likely for damage to occur. The same is true for styles that are too tight.
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When a braid style pulls on your roots and edges, it’s a sure sign that your hair is under too much stress. It’s important to note that installing braids doesn’t mean that you can abandon your hair care routine. You’ll get the best results if you keep taking care of your braided hair.
Do Braids Help Your Hair Grow?
Technically, braids won’t make your hair grow any faster but there are a few ways in which they encourage hair growth. The right braid style can protect new growth as it gets stronger.
Since your hair is in a protective style, you’re also not putting your hair under the additional stress of daily styling. That means you’re more likely to preserve some thickness and new growth. Of course, there is expected to be some shedding so it’s important to detangle your hair well when you’re removing the braids.
How To Do Braids For Short Hair?
You don’t need long hair to get the braid style that you want. Depending on the length of your hair, though, it can be best to see a professional instead of trying to do it yourself. The reason for this is that you’ll still need braids that don’t damage your hair by placing too much stress on it.
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Some great options include knotless braids and box braids but it’s a good idea to get a stylist’s input.
7 Beautiful African Hair Braiding Styles To Try
1. The Cornrow Bun
Cornrows involve braiding the hair close to your scalp. A good way to spruce up this style is to twirl the resulting hair into a bun.
2. The Cornrow Ponytail
This style starts out in a similar way to the first option but you would use hair that is long enough to
