Black Hair Braiding

Braids are black women's official summer, maternity leave and bad hair day hairstyle all rolled into one (don't even act like you don't know what I'm talking about!).

That's how important black hair braiding is in so many of our lives!

That tradition is still alive and kicking today. These days braids people wear braids mainly for their style factor and because they are very easy to maintain. They've become a hit among people of every race, creed and color!

There are more than a few great reasons you and other women might want to consider braids.

• They're easy to maintain
• Less upkeep than wearing straight styles
• Usually cheaper than other styles in the long run
• Weather and moisture resistant
• They give the hair "a break" from styling and chemicals

Black Hair Braiding Styles

Box Braids
These are individual braids that are done on all of the hair and about the size of a pencil in thickness. These are the most used braided style and have very flexible styling options. Synthetic hair is usually used for this technique.

Goddess Braids
These are large braids that are usually cornrowed into intricate updo's with elaborate details. They are usually done with synthetic hair.

Micro Braids
Also individuals, these braids are very small and are usually just plaited in an inch or two and the rest of the length of the brain left loose for a free flow look. Human hair is usually used for this technique.

Tree Braids
This technique gives one of the most natural looking finishes that almost makes it seems as though the hair is growing right out of the scalp. Human hair is usually used.

Twist Braids
This kind of braid is twisted rather than plaited and it gives a different style pattern to the braid but with all the flexibility of box braids. These kinds are also very easy to remove. Straight or kinky textured synthetic hair is usually used for this technique.

Yarn Braids
As the name suggests, yarn is used to do this technique. It's used in the same way as synthetic hair would be with individuals. This technique is particularly good if you're thinking about transitioning seamlessly to dreadlocks.

Cornrows
This is a style that doesn't use individuals but instead makes the hair sit right against the scalp in whatever row patterns your imagination will lead you to. These braids get messed up the fastest, but also take the least amount of time to do. People usually cornrow their natural hair, but extension hair can be added for length.

There are a few more things to consider before you make a decision on which black hair braiding style to choose.

• Time required to put them in
• Time needed to take them out
• Length of time you can wear them
• Amount of upkeep required
• Possible damage to your hair
• Type of hair you can use to do them
• Level of skill needed to do them
• Cost

Once you've covered all your bases and you've selected a black hair braiding style that's right for you, jump right in! And hey, if you don't like that style you can always take them out and start over. Who knows, you may become so good at it you want to start doing it professionally!

Happy braiding!

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