Braid Care
Nine Tips For Fabulous Cornrows
By Marquetta Breslin
Sep 19, 2005, 23:17

Cornrowed hair is a timeless, traditional style which has equal appeal for both men and women. Taking care of your scalp and hair is an important factor in having great-looking cornrows.

To have flawless cornrows, follow these guidelines:

(1) Your hair should be around 10 cm if it is straight, and a minimum 5 cm if it has tight curls. This way you will not need to braid it tightly to make it stay.

(2) If your salon professional has photos of their previous braiding work, this might help you determine their level of skill as a braider.

(3) Wrapping your head with a silk scarf or using a satin pillowcase can help you maintain your cornrowed style. This will also protect the hair from getting frizzy.

(4) If your hairstylist is not an experienced professional, the braiding process may cause you enormous pain and result in hair loss, bumps and infections. Always choose a stylist with solid experience under his/her belt.

(5) You might think that keeping your hair clean is difficult when your hair is styled in cornrows. Not true! Using a water pick dental cleaner, a shower massager or a wide-toothed comb can help clean your hair thoroughly without disturbing the style.

(6) Cold air takes away moisture from the air. In cold weather, dry hair is prone to everyday damage. Avoid excessive dryness with a hair moisturizer.

(7) One of the most natural ways to prevent moisture loss is to drink 8-10 glasses of water daily.

(8) Using a moisturizing shampoo further helps to retain the moisture balance of your hair, keeping it healthy and full of life.

(9) Use protein-rich conditioners to maintain healthy, strong braids.

Aside from these fundamentals for maintaining fabulous cornrows, there are other rules to follow. If you cannot avoid using heat on your hair, use a silicon-based product first to coat and protect the hair shaft. In addition, trimming hair every six weeks will help keep it in the best shape.

Care for your braids using the guidelines above, and you'll enjoy lasting, stylish cornrows.


© Copyright by Braids by Breslin