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Micro Braids

July 19, 2008

Braiding is a traditional hairstyle that has greatly changed itself through the course of history. The earliest account of braiding in history dates back to early Egyptian times. The art of braiding has been passed on to generation after generation in countries such as Africa; so much so that this timeless style has made it’s way to America, and is being taught generation after generation here as well.

The most commonly seen type of braid is known as a ”basic braid”. Consisting of intertwining three equally sized strands of hair to form one large braid, a basic braid is one of the easiest braiding styles to achieve. The term ”micro braid” means lots of very small braids covering the entire head. Micro braids generally start from the crown or forehead area of a persons head. While cornrows are braids that lay flat on the head, microbraids hang in a downward direction and flow freely, just like your natural hair.

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.

*Not sure if getting micro braids on chemically straightened hair is a good idea? Make sure to consult with your stylist first before getting this style done

*If you would like longer and fuller braids, you can add extension hair to your natural hair while braiding. However, make sure you match the extension hair with the middle to ends of your hair. If you match the extension hair to the root of your natural hair, it will be darker than it should.

*Thick shampoos, conditioners, and pomades can leave residue on your braids and could even cause a dry, itchy scalp. To avoid this, use a ”dry” shampoo or an 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.

*Having micro braids that are too tight or too thin can cause unnecessary tension on the scalp, and could result in hair thinning out or breaking off. This is why it is critical that your micro braids are always completed by a professional stylist.

*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.

Micro braids are loved because they are easy to maintain and very versatile when it comes to potential styles. However, they must be maintained to achieve their beautiful appearance. This maintenance routine includes conditioning and moisturizing regularly with a mild shampoo. To avoid residue on the scalp, you can dilute your products slightly.

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!

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 at www.braidsbybreslin.com.

Posted by Marquetta Breslin · Filed Under General 

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