Ethnic style: how to do trendy African braids.
For a long time, African braids have not surprised anyone in everyday styling. It is a practical and elegant option that can transform the look and create a unique image. In this article, you will learn what types of afrocos are, the pros and cons of weaving, and the secrets of hair care.
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African braids: what are they?
Afro, or braids (from English braid – “braid”, a braid – “fabric”), is a type of weaving, traditionally consisting of three strands. Sometimes already braided pigtails are twisted together into bundles and form other hairstyles.
Best of all, this style contrasts with formal wear, like a pantsuit.
But it is better to avoid ethnic motifs unless you are a representative of a certain subculture.
African braids are perfect both for a special occasion and for everyday life.
Advantages and disadvantages
African braids can make hair be longer and thicker visually, in addition to giving life to comfort. It's a convenient way to experiment with your appearance, but it does have pros and cons.
Advantages:
- you can wash your hair less often (every five to six days);
- hairstyle does not require daily styling;
- braids can be braided to any length;
- convenient for an active lifestyle, travel, sports;
- you can change the length of the hair;
- no use of hair dryer hair, styling appliances, that is, less damage and dry hair…
Disadvantages:
- not suitable for weakened hair;
- Yes there are dandruff , the hairstyle looks messy;
- if special weaving materials were used, it is forbidden to go to the sauna and bathhouse, as they can melt and damage the hair;
- such a hairstyle is not suitable for owners of a round face : braids can be stuffed;
- tight weave can cause headaches;
- it is necessary to update the hairstyle as the roots grow.
There is a common myth that removing your braids will lead to extensive hair loss. This is only half true: hair falls out for natural reasons, only in everyday life we comb it and do not notice such a large amount on the comb. After removing the braids, all the hairs that have died during this time will be on your hands, but there is nothing to worry about. This is exactly the same amount of hair that you would leave on the brush if you used it normally.
However, loss prevention will not hurt. Professionals suggest that aminexil treatment be arranged twice a year. This substance prevents collagen from hardening around the follicles, as a result of which the hair is firmly fixed on the scalp. Aminexil is found, for example, in the Biolage ScalpSync ampoules and L'Oréal Professionnel Aminexil Advanced . In kerastase Amineksilom funds are available in spray format, and in ampoules format.
What types of African Braids are there?
Afro braids differ in thickness, type and technique of weaving, as well as the use of additional materials.
SalonSecret experts talk about the most popular options and who to turn to.
Classic
Classic African braids are woven from three strands. To add length, a synthetic material is used: kanekalon , which is woven into the hair.
This option is suitable for owners of any type of face and appearance.
If you have a round face, then your task is to cover your cheeks with strands. Pigtails gathered at the back of your head are not your story at all!
with threads
Braiding with threads allows you to increase the length of your hair. Threads of a different color are often used, which allows not only to radically change the color of the hair, but also to create beautiful effects, such as ombre.
Thick African Braids
Thick pigtails, unfortunately, live less than thin ones.
However, this is a very stylish and fashionable option, which is suitable only for owners of thick and long hair. If your volume is not enough, then the master will knit synthetic or kanekalon strands for you.
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Of colors
pigtails colors they will not suit everyone. First of all, you should have clean skin with no visible flaws, since the color will only emphasize them. Secondly, this option will only suit people with expressive features (for example, Brown eyes ). It's easy to get lost in colored strands, especially if you decide to collect all the "rainbow" in your hair.
Corrugation
A hairstyle reminiscent of chemistry or "explosion at a pasta factory" will suit girls who are not afraid of attention. This is a great way to add volume and length to your hair.
It is best to make this type of weaving in short hair (from 5 cm). The technique consists in the fact that the master weaves zigzag strands into yours.
Senegalese
Senegal, they are also flagella or spirals, woven from artificial material, but they differ from classic afros in the manner of weaving - a rope of two threads.
French
French braids are suitable for those with a low forehead. You can make any pattern on the head from the strands.
This hairstyle opens up the face, so owners of a round face should not experiment.
thai braids
Thai weaving is done without the use of additional threads. The master braids your own hair, so this option is suitable for people with thick and healthy hair.
Beads are often added to the ends.
Zizi
Zizi are thin braids that are woven into your own hair. An excellent option for a holiday by the sea: they dry quickly, are very light and are comfortable for day to day.
Ideally for a hair length of 15 to 20 cm, the zizi can be done down to the shoulder blades and even to the toes.
dreadlocks
There are several ways to knit dreadlocks . Your own hair gets tangled and weaved with donor or fake strands. Dreads are an easy and convenient way to express yourself!
Horse tail
Weaving from a special pony material helps to achieve a beautiful curl at the ends of the braids (10-15 cm), imitating a ponytail.
curly curls
This is one extension alternative often used for special occasions: weddings and nights out. The master does the braiding at the roots and adds a loose curl.
Suitable for girls with any face shape, it adds volume and length well.
eights
This is a double strand fabric made of kanekalon material. Often the eights are diluted with other types of weaving, but it looks beautiful on the entire length of the hair.
Who are afro braids suitable for?
African Braids are ideal for owners of oval, diamond-shaped, square, rectangular and triangular faces.
People with a high forehead should not open it too much, but for those with a round and full face, it is better to forgo braids.
Weaving is suitable regardless of age and gender, but the main nuance is a healthy scalp, without wounds and strong hair.
Difficulties may occur in hair shorter than 5 cm, in very fine and weakened hair.
Short hair
You can add length to short hair with African braids, but keep in mind: it is unrealistic to do this for a hedgehog haircut.
Its own length must be at least 5 cm, otherwise the master will have nothing to work with.
Medium long hair
This is the ideal length both for experimentation and in terms of convenience - the master can quickly and easily create any color and braid on your hair.
Long hair
With long hair, there is only one difficulty - if it is thick, it will take a long time to weave it. Most often, long hair is braided in several hands.
What can be useful to create African braids?
You can create Thai, classic African or French braids on your own, the main thing is patience and a lot of time. You will also need the following styling tools and products.
Instruments
- comb brush,
- coarse tooth comb
- rubber bands,
- forks to separate strands,
- threads for weaving
By the way, there is a special machine for creating Senegalese braids. But its use requires special skills, since with it it is easy to tangle and damage the hair.
styling products
Styling products are only necessary for short-term styling. When creating braids for prolonged use, they are prohibited, since the weaving can lose shape and deteriorate.
- dry shampoo Matrix High Amplify El
Fine dry shampoo will help prepare fine hair for braiding (while absorbing sebum from the scalp). High Amplify se it adheres to the hair evenly and does not weigh it down, and when creating braids there will be no excess slippage. It is also easy to refresh your hair with this shampoo, so as not to tangle the tresses in the process of wet washing. Alternate between dry and classic shampoos, but don't layer dry texture for two days in a row, your skin won't like it. - He careful spray
Frizz Dismiss of Redken It will help to smooth the hair and make it more obedient to the weave without problems. - Mousse to give volume
If you decide to braid your hair for one night, use Curl Ideal Curl Mousse of kerastase . When you loosen up your braids, you will be delighted with stunning wavy hair. - lake
use the spray forcibly of Redken : it will help to secure the hair and soften the damaged hair.
How to braid African braids with your own hands at home: a step-by-step scheme
- Comb your hair.
- Separate the weaving area with two partitions.
- Make horizontal stripes within the area and secure the strands with bobby pins.
- Braid the separate strands into braids. If you want to add curls or synthetic strands, do it from the root or with very little slit.
- The tighter the braiding and tension, the longer the braids will last.
- Braid your entire head this way.
- Use hairspray to smooth flyaways and flyaways.
Frequently asked questions
How much kanekalon do you need for African Braids?
There is no single answer to this question, everything will depend on the length and thickness of the braids. But on average, you can focus on 3-4 packages of 200 grams.
Which kanekalon is better to choose for weaving afro braids?
Experts recommend giving preference to artificial strands with algae in the composition. But it is better to refuse heavy synthetic fakes. Yes, its price will be lower. But at the same time, the chance of damaging the hair follicles, due to the severity of the braids, is significantly increased.
Can already used kanekalon be interlaced again?
In general, you can. It must be properly straightened, treated with an antiseptic solution and can be reused. But the unraveling process will probably be long and tedious, so it's easier to buy several new kanekalon packs.
Women's hairstyles with African braids
Many beautiful and trendy hairstyles can be made with African braids. The most elegant ideas are collected in a selection.
Line
Gather at the top or back of the head, securing it with an elastic band.
This is a casual and comfortable option that works well for long braids.
Beam
You can create an evening and festive look from braids by making a high or low bun.
The hair can be held back with an elastic band or with bobby pins.
Two packets
A slightly hooligan and arrogant look with two bunches is suitable for meeting friends and even for studying.
big braid afro-braids
A big braid is a simple and effective way to create a romantic and modern look.
African Braiding Ideas for Girls
Unusual accessories are suitable for children's knitting: colored threads, strands, beads and special jewelry.
If you are looking for a practical and comfortable hairstyle, nothing better than French braids. This hairstyle always looks beautiful and does not need styling. And by the way, it is popular not only with girls, but also with boys.
African braids for men
Braids for men look modern and stylish (who, if they're not rappers, know this). The braids or braids French are suitable for men, this is the most neat and classic option.
If your soul calls for creativity, try eights, dreadlocks or a classic afro in combination with a ponytail.
African braids care
Braids are easy to care for, but that doesn't mean they can be neglected. What care products should be used and how often, what to look for when choosing products - read on.
care products
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- shampoos
Apply only to the scalp. Washing your hair once a week is enough. At the final stage, it is permissible to use an air conditioner. To boost the strength of growing hair with shampoo, bathe extensionist of kerastase . - Matrix Root Up Wash It is the perfect solution for the occasional washing of African Braids. Use once a week for maximum scalp lightening and phenomenal volume. There are no silicones in the composition, but the shampoo will easily remove excess sebum.
- shampoos
- hair masks
Surprisingly, they can and should be used. It is quite difficult to apply them to the braids, but no one canceled the benefits of them.
For opacity use mask Fundamentally Rich of kerastase . - Complementary products The
laminar water Shine Rinse , an absolute novelty of the brand matrix , is suitable for girls with all kinds of African braids. Unlike conventional conditioners, this treatment is light in texture and does not weigh down the fabric strands. It takes 8 seconds to add shine and softness to your hair.How long can you wear African Braids?
It is recommended that you remove your braids after three to four months, but it all depends on how fast your hair is growing. If they grow quickly, in two months the roots will have tangled mats. It is for this reason that you should not delay them, you risk breaking the curls and injuring the bulbs.
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How to undo braids at home?
Ideally, untwisting braids need to be done in the salon to reduce the risk of injury to your own hair, but you can do it yourself at home. In the weaving process, they may appear knots and tangles , so arm yourself with the most non-traumatic comb.
Divide your hair into several sections. Carefully cut off the sealed ends. If there is an elastic band at the end, then it is enough to remove it. Gently loosen the braids and comb your hair.
After the braided , you can use a regenerating mask such as Therapist of kerastase .