Micro Braid Hairstyles PDF Print E-mail
Written by James Romito   
Wednesday, 17 September 2008

micro braidsBraid hairstyles have been around for many years.  The first accounts of braided hair date back to the Egyptian empire.  Currently braids are most popular in the United States, Mexico and tropical areas such as Jamaica & the Bahamas.  Recent trends in braid hairstyles are the micro braid hairstyles that were made popular by young African-American women.  

What are Micro Braids?

Micro braids are much smaller than traditional braids.  They are tiny & delicate and take about 7 to 9 hours to complete.  The micro braiding process should be done in a braiding salon by a trained stylist. Micro braids are made by taking a small piece of hair putting it into a hair braiding weave and weaving it.  Micro braids are a very customized hairstyle that can be combined with other hairstyles, such as corn rows. 

Things to Consider

Hair quality and length – If you have brittle hair you should not get micro braids because the micro braids can break your hair.  Also, shorter hair works better for micro braids because the longer the hair, the more chance of breakage.

Before you get the micro braids     

o    Use a deep conditioner so your hair will have more moisture and be less likely to break from the braids.
o    Wait about two weeks after a fresh relaxer before you have your micro braids done because this will make your hair straight and easier to braid.

During the braiding

o    Make sure the braids are not too tight because they can cause pain and hair loss.
o    Don’t get braids that are too small.  Small braids take more time to remove and can be more susceptible to breakage.

Maintenance for micro braid hairstyles

o    Use a leave in conditioner every couple days.  This will help keep your hair hydrated.
o    Wash your hair at least once a week to keep your scalp and hair clean.
o    Use a dry shampoo or an astringent to wash your hair because thick hair products can leave residue, which can lead to a dry itchy scalp.

As long as you take the proper precautions and maintain daily upkeep, you should have great success with your micro braids.


Last Updated ( Wednesday, 17 September 2008 )
 
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