About Braids And Cornrows
Braids and cornrows timeless, popular hairstyles. Their intricate designs and stunning beauty makes them a true art form.
Braids offer endless styles and patterns which look wonderful on children. They last a long time and require no chemicals. It is necessary to wash braids regularly to keep them fresh and clean.
Which particular braiding style you choose may depend largely on your preference and hair type. For example, if you have brittle hair, it's best to stay away from micro braids, which can cause damage.
It is necessary to use caution while twisting and turning your braids into different styles, especially if you have a delicate scalp. Remember that braiding tightly can cause damage to your scalp and hair. Use a good quality synthetic fiber for braiding.
Make sure that you do not leave braids in for more than two months. Otherwise, braids may "lock up" and cause severe damage to your hair. Avoid using heavy and thick shampoos, conditioners, and pomades on your braids. To keep your scalp moisturized, use a light oil.
You must be careful when using a conditioner after you wash your braided styles. It's best to avoid leave-in conditioners altogether, since they soften the hair and loosen braids. Creamy conditioners are also harmful, as they are hard to wash out.
Use a cotton, silk, or satin scarf to cover and protect your braids. A cotton scarf is the best choice if you have oily hair. Cotton absorbs the excess oil in the hair and allows it to breathe.
Cornrows lay flat against the scalp, and are one of the healthiest of all braiding styles. You can create cornrows using a process of braiding and picking up hair along a row. Your own hair or artificial hair extensions may be used. The hair to make cornrows should be approximately 5 cm for springy African hair, and 7 to 8 cm for straight hair. However, you can create cornrows with shorter hair if you use extensions.
With proper maintenance, cornrows can last from four to six weeks. The hair may become "locked" or "matted" if you leave them in for too long.
The better you care for your braids, the longer they will last. Keep your hair moisturized and protect it from harmful elements. Cover your hair with a silk or satin scarf while sleeping at night. Lastly, unbraid your cornrows immediately if you find them tight and uncomfortable.
By Marquetta Breslin
Sep 12, 2005, 12:59
Email this article
Printer friendly page
Articles Index | Buy the DVD | Buy the E-Book | Schedule Training | Visit the Gallery
