What is Braiding?

Braiding is a popular method of hair styling, especially amongst Afro-Caribbean clients. Braids hold your natural hair in place and protect it from daily exposure to the weather and normal environmental factors that cause wear and tear. Often fibre extensions are added to the natural hair to make braids more durable.

Suitability

Braids can last up to three months when extension fibre is added and there are a number of braid styles to choose from including corn rows, micro braids, twist braids and china bumps to name a few. Braiding can be time consuming but a full head can be achieved in two to eight hours depending on the size and length of braids required and the speed of your technician.

The Process

Prior to braiding, the natural hair is washed clean and blow dried with cool air. The amount of time taken to complete your style will vary depending on the chosen style and whether you require a full or half head of braiding and on the thickness of the braids.
Caring for your Braids

Extension braids will last for two to three months and potentially even longer depending on the size of braids. Thinner braids may last longer than thicker ones. Although you may wash hair daily, once a week is more advisable as this will help keep your hairstyle in shape and good condition.

For Afro hair types, depending on the individual’s preference, after braiding you may apply a small amount of hair dress, oil sheen spray or braiding spray to the scalp to provide moisture and to stop the scalp from getting dry and flaky.