All about African braids: types, weaving technique, pros and cons of

African braids are a vibrant aspect of personal style and cultural expression, not just a hairstyle. These braids have a rich history and provide a distinctive means of showcasing creativity. They range from complex designs to straightforward yet elegant patterns. Learning about African braids can lead to a plethora of options, regardless of your level of experience with hairstyling.

African braids come in a variety of styles, each with a unique appearance and technique. Every style has its own unique flair and advantages, ranging from intricate cornrows and fashionable twist-outs to traditional box braids. We’ll dissect these styles so you can select the best fit for your needs and personality.

African braid weaving calls for a few specific techniques that, while initially intimidating, get easier with practice. These methods guarantee that the braids are not only gorgeous to look at but also cozy and long-lasting. We’ll go over the fundamentals of making these braids and offer advice to help you get the hang of it.

African braids have advantages and disadvantages like any other hairstyle. Although they are praised for being adaptable and low-maintenance, they still need some attention to stay in top condition. We’ll go over the benefits and possible downsides to help you determine whether African braids are right for you.

What is it

Afrokoschiki is a unique and popular hairstyle that is still popular among both sexes. African pigtails, it is worth making a reservation; this is not a choice for those with modest dispositions. Forget about daily styling for a while—the updated image looks brilliant, imaginative, and spectacular without hiding from outsiders.

Sports enthusiasts and active people should wear afrocosics. When playing sports, weaving alerts the eye to hair in the eye. It is advised to focus on trendy hairstyles for kids, teenagers, and Small braids appear strange and ungainly on adults. Additionally, African braids are linked to a whimsical and eccentric personality, boldness, and a challenge to everything conventional, gray, so this hairstyle is inappropriate for businesswomen.

African braids can be styled on both short and long hair. The strands should be at least 5 to 7 cm long. If you take good care of your braids and don’t compromise the weaving technology, your hairstyle should last longer than two months.

Please take note that Afro braids are a fantastic way to visually hide the lack of volume in your hair and lengthen it.

History of the hairstyle

The hairstyle’s earliest recorded history dates back to Ancient Egypt. The African braids that the Egyptians wore more than 5,000 years ago gave them a trapezoid shape. The length of the braids increased with a person’s status. Consequently, the longest African braids could only be claimed by the pharaoh. However, these were wigs rather than their real hair. The truth is that Egyptians wore wigs because growing long hair in their hot African climate was painful and difficult for them, despite the fact that long hair in a blue-black shade was considered a sign of nobility and purebredness.

Braids originated in Africa and spread to America and Europe as a result of colonization and development. The 1960s saw the hairstyle reach its pinnacle of popularity; at the time, it stood for racial equality, freedom, and tranquility.

After 1990, celebrities and singers from around the world started showcasing the trendy afro hairstyle. In addition to being striking and vivid, pigtails were also easy to wear and needed little maintenance.

Afro braids are also fashionable these days. Artificial fibers, new materials, and weaving techniques are added on a regular basis. Both adults and children braid their pigtails for daily wear and for travel to hot destinations.

Who are they suitable for

Based on age data, African braids are hardly a universal hairstyle for men and women. This is a more youthful option for people who are creative and enthusiastic and wish to make a statement. However, there is no hair structure and no gender restrictions.

Afro-braids are reserved for people with the ideal oval face shape; if not, you should avoid projecting a bright image because the hairstyle will only highlight your physical shortcomings. Those who wear bangs and want to cover up a large forehead should be aware that this styling option is not appropriate for them.

Bright appearances are completely inappropriate for negotiations, business lunches, and a glamorous, businesslike style. The hairstyle will be helpful for athletes and young people who are active because it won’t get in the way of training.

It doesn’t matter what shade your hair is. Vibrant braiding materials will revitalize the look and add zest and piquancy without damaging long-term coloring.

Hair longer than 5 cm can be braided in a stylish manner. Smaller indicators are prohibited. Short hairstyles should be braided with consideration for the thickness of the hair; long braids can damage weaker, thinner hairs. Thick haired people may have the same issue.

General recommendations for implementation

Braid weaving is a straightforward process that needs accuracy and attention to detail. In order to ensure that your Afro hairstyle remains gorgeous and untangled after a week, follow these professional hairstylists’ recommendations:

• braids will be neater if you slightly moisten the strand with water or apply a special mousse before weaving;
• styling with thin braids will last longer;
• a wig with braids or a zizi bun attached to the head will help determine whether the chosen image will suit you or not;
• to lengthen the curls, use kanekalon, zizi, and other artificial materials;
• bright artificial inserts make the hairstyle original, allow you to trim the ends, no need to resort to dyeing your hair;
• It is better to braid African braids with a professional, this is the only way to guarantee the preservation of the hairstyle for the stated period of time;
• braiding is done according to the brickwork pattern (in a checkerboard pattern) to avoid large gaps;
• choose the pattern and type of African braids in advance, it is almost impossible to correct it during the transformation, it is necessary to re-weave the braids;
• braids should be pulled moderately during braiding, then they will turn out beautiful and even;
• wash your hair 2-3 days before changing your image, it is more difficult to braid African braids on clean hair, strands will be knocked out, fluffy and will give the hairstyle a sloppy look.

Types of African braids

Brades

Brades are French braids enhanced with synthetic materials such as kanekalon or zizi. Fashionistas of today adorn their entire head with braids or draw attention to their temples.

If the hairdresser’s skill permits it, you can even use hair to create an abstract painting with different patterns and weaving directions. Every option appears unique and remarkable.

Braids are secured tightly to the head, and you may use a minimum of 7 cm for your own strands.

Senegalese braids

Kanekalon threads are woven into bundles known as Senegalese braids. The Senegalese version of the hairstyle, which has less of an effect on the hair roots than the typical African braids, is appropriate for people with thin, weak hair.

You can use different colored Kanekalon threads to weave Senegalese braids. It is acceptable to mix and match different shades for the hairstyle or to select ombre-dyed hair strands (where the ends are darker and the roots are lighter, or vice versa).

Methodical implementation:

1. Divide the hair into several zones for convenience, fix each with a hairpin or clip.
2. Divide each zone into small and identical strands.
3. Take a Kanekalon thread, bend it in half. The thickness of the artificial strand should be half that of the natural one.
4. Strengthen the kanekalon thread at the base of the strand, weave the material 2-3 cm into a regular braid. Distribute the artificial material and natural hair evenly into 2 strands.
5. Twist each strand and then twist them together in the opposite direction.
6. Secure the Kanekalon with a special fixing glue. Some girls heat the tip with a lighter or dip it in boiling water for this purpose.

It should be noted that Senegalese braids only last roughly two months before you need to braid new ones.

Zizi

African braids are simplified into zizi. Your job is to connect the braids with natural hair once they are ready. Zizi comes in a variety of shades and can be straight or corrugated (wavy). To ensure that the change from artificial to natural hair strands is undetectable, stylists advise selecting a color that is as close to your natural tone as possible.

If the care instructions for hair were followed when wearing the zizi material, it can be reused.

Over 15-20 cm is the ideal length of hair for braiding. Short hairstyles are not appropriate for zizi braids.

Ponytail

Ponytails, also known as pony braids, are similar to traditional African braids except that their ends aren’t curled and braided. The English translation of the hairstyle’s name is "pony tail." The Afro hairstyle complements bold and vibrant personalities and looks stunning and unique.

The method for creating a ponytail is the same as for traditional African braids:

1. For convenience, the hair is divided into zones, each zone – into small strands.
2. An artificial strand is fixed at the base of a natural strand and a regular braid is braided.
3. Having reached the desired length, the braid is fixed.

Three months is the ideal time frame for wearing "pony tails," after which the hairstyle is changed.

Braids with kanekalon

The most common and appropriate material for weaving African braids is kanekalon. It was exclusively used by boxers to firmly secure braids during practice and competition until 2016. Artificial hair has become more and more popular these days, especially among regular girls who love unique and imaginative hairstyles.

Natural hair and kanekalon threads have a similar appearance. It is hard to tell whether they are nearby or not. Depending on the client’s preferences, the number, type, shade, and thickness of the braids may vary.

Kanekalon braids can be made at home; a hair salon visit is not required.

The images below show creative and colorful weaving ideas:

Thai braids

Thai braids are made entirely of your own hair, without the use of any synthetic materials. This is the hairstyle’s primary characteristic.

It matters how thick and long the curls are. You don’t do such styling on sparse, thin hair. It is not permitted for the strands to extend to the shoulders.

Thai braids lose their respectable appearance quickly, so a hairstyle update is necessary after a month or two. Remember that wearing braids for an extended period of time damages hair.

The simplest weaving option’s sequence of action is as follows:

1. Divide the hair into small strands. The pattern of their arrangement may differ, depending on the pattern you have chosen.
2. Braid each strand into a regular braid of 3 strands.
3. Secure the braid with a silicone elastic band.

You can select a more sophisticated option if you have consulted a professional hairstylist. View the following images for stylish examples that are both current and eye-catching:

Corrugated braids

African corrugated braids have a unique, romantic appearance. Elastic, playful curls resemble wet perm. The process of transformation can take up to four hours.

Corrugated braids are commonly referred to as African hair extensions. You can add volume to your hair and greatly lengthen your curls with the use of artificial strands. The hairstyle will need to be updated after three months if proper care is not taken.

Zizi braids and corrugated braids are woven using the same technique. The artificial strand is fastened with a natural hair braid that is placed 4-5 cm below the head’s surface and sealed or clamped in place.

The client’s preferences are considered when choosing the corrugated braids’ length and color.

Twists, mambo twist

Another kind of synthetic component used to create an Afro hairstyle is a twist. There are various kinds of twists.

• Senegal twists – an artificial copy of Senegalese braids, thin in themselves, 45 cm long;
• mambo twists – unlike Senegal twists, thick and voluminous. They can be short (35 cm) and long (55 cm);
• cube twists — made from 4 strands, have a cubic shape. Length of one strand — 55 cm.

If the natural hair is shorter than 7 centimeters, twists are not used. Reusable artificial material; 1.5–2 months of wear time. Twists are appropriate for stylish people with sparse or thin hair.

There are various methods for securing twists:

• by analogy with braiding braids, while twists are added to the braid with a special hook;
• using the technology of weaving zizi braids;
• dot weaving or similar to DE/SE dreadlocks.

Suggestions. Give a professional your advice on the best technique to attach twists.

Rastas

Rastafarians weave in a radically different way. Threads for knitting or embroidery (referred to as "vyazhevo" in the professional language of hairdressers) are an essential component of any exotic hairstyle. Strands wrapped in thread are known as rasta braids. They can be a single hair or cover the whole head.

Rathas can be braided on your head in a variety of ways.

First Method:

1. Prepare 2 threads 2.5 times longer than the length of your hair.
2. Separate a strand and fix the threads at its base. Tie a knot, but do not tighten it. Put a strand through the knot, tighten the threads.
3. One end of the thread should be placed in the strand, and the other should be wrapped around it.
4. After 5 cm, swap the threads (place the second in the strand, and the first wrap). So, to the end of the strand.
5. Fix the end of the thread with a candle or a clamp.

Approach 2 (more dependable):

1. Prepare 2 threads that are 2.5 times longer than the strands themselves.
2. Select a small strand, fix the threads at its base (with a knot).
3. Put one end of the thread into the strand. Braid a regular pigtail from the strand.
4. Wrap the other end of the thread around the braid.
5. Fix the threads after finishing braiding, using a candle or a fixer.

If you include kanekalon in the braiding, rusts will aid in making your hair longer.

Braids with threads

Acrylic knitting threads and floss are inexpensive materials that can be used to adorn an afro hairstyle, bringing brightness and an exotic touch to the picture. Used frequently when creating braids at home. Experts advise selecting threads made entirely of acrylic. They are robust, maintain their color, and do not stretch when worn or braided.

How to use threads in braids:

1. Prepare a thread, its length should exceed the length curls by 20-25 cm or 2.5 times. You can use threads of different colors, in several folds.
2. Select a small strand of hair. At its base, fix the thread. To do this, tie a loop and tighten.
3. Weave the thread gradually into the braid. Thanks to this, the hairstyle will retain the intended image longer.
4. Continue to braid the braid as long as the length of the strand allows.
5. Finally, fix the ends of the thread with a candle or a thin silicone rubber band, tie a knot.

Suggestions. Little, tidy braids have a more elegant and balanced appearance.

Rasty afro braids are a different kind that have threads. Their weaving technique and specifics are covered in the article above.

Dreadlocks

Dreadlocks are an afro hairstyle option for people who are daring and exceptional. The hairstyle’s extraordinary appeal has faded recently. Even though you could make dreadlocks at home, going to a professional hairstylist will be the better course of action. A very short haircut and tangles can result from an inexperienced stylist creating an afro hairstyle.

How to create step-by-step dreadlock braids:

1. Wash and dry your hair without using conditioners or masks.
2. Decide on the thickness of the future dreadlocks, divide the entire head of hair into such strands.
3. Take one strand, make a small bouffant along the entire length of the strand.
4. Simultaneously, with the other hand, twist the strand to the right, forming a tourniquet.
5. Fix the beginning and end of the dreadlock with silicone rubber bands.
6. Treat the finished strand with special wax along the entire length.

You can wear dreadlocks for up to four months. It is advised to apply hair wax to the strands on a regular basis.

Most dreadlocks are cut rather than unbraided. Unbraiding can result in up to 50% hair loss; it’s an arduous and time-consuming procedure. So, when you grow tired of the haircut, be ready to bid adieu to your hair’s length.

Can you braid it yourself

Braiding African braids by hand is challenging. It is preferable to have a knowledgeable helper nearby. Although braiding is a relatively simple technique, it does require careful and meticulous work.

The following tools are needed for a home makeover:

• comb with a sharp tip;
• artificial material (a skein of thread, kanekalon, zizi braids, etc.);
• silicone rubber bands, a retainer for kanekalon or a candle for sealing the ends of the material;
• clamps, hairpins for ease of weaving;
• 4–8 hours of free time.

A sophisticated pattern that is a DIY version of stylish weaving is challenging to create. This is yet another compelling reason to speak with an expert. The hairstyle will cost about 1,500 rubles, which is more than it would in the area. The master’s class, the salon’s rating, the work’s intricacy, and the quantity of artificial material woven all have an impact on the cost.

Rules for hair care

The wear life of African braids is decreased by improper maintenance. Pigtails lose their put-together appearance and appear messy and unkempt. The following will assist in avoiding these hair care advice recommendations from hairdressers:

• wash your hair once every 1–1.5 weeks, no more often. Use shampoo for normal hair. No conditioner or balm;
• drying with a hairdryer, especially with hot air, is prohibited. As a result, under the influence of temperature, artificial inserts can unravel, and the braids will look disheveled. After washing, wrap the braids in a terry towel so that it absorbs moisture;
• renew your hairstyle every 1.5–2 months. The master will correct the slipped knots, partially get rid of the fluffiness of the hairstyle;
• going to the sauna, bathhouse are highly undesirable.

Hairstyle options

Afro-braids are a sophisticated and all-encompassing hairstyle. The image will look more refreshed with simple braided styling. Braids gathered into a bun, whether high or low, look impressive and don’t cover up beauty when participating in active sports.

Bangs are rarely left out of braids; instead, they are typically woven in. If there is a bang, style it daily with care.

Simple: a headband or scarf tied in the same hue as the clothing looks fashionable and cheery.

The following images offer additional styling options for African braids.

African braids come in a variety of forms, weaving techniques, and benefits, making them a chic and adaptable option. These braids, which range from simple cornrows to elaborate box braids, are useful and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you’re looking for a bold, cultural statement or low-maintenance beauty, you can find the perfect braid by experimenting with different styles and weaving techniques and weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each.

How to unbraid

You don’t need to visit a hair salon to get rid of braids. Nonetheless, hairdressers insist on expert assistance, which lowers the possibility of hair damage.

First, you have to release (untie) the knots in the artificial weaves. Use scissors to cut the knots made from the hair ends in order to accomplish this. Then, gradually unbraid each braid by carefully prying with a sharp object. Comb the curls slowly, beginning at the ends.

Take note! When unbraiding African braids, a lot of hair loss is normal, so don’t be alarmed.

The client’s preference and the style of African braids will determine when to unbraid the braids. Please be aware that keeping a hairstyle on longer than is advised can be harmful to the health of your hair.

Usually, your natural curls appear luscious and rested after afro braids featuring synthetic inserts. There is a chance of experiencing weakened and dry hair, prolonged and excessive hair loss, slow growth, dullness, and a lifeless appearance if the braiding was done too tightly or in violation of technology.

Pros and cons

Afro hairstyles offer advantages and disadvantages. It is crucial to take them into account when selecting a vivid image.

Unquestionable benefits of afro braids:

• save time, daily styling is no longer required;
• convenient, hair does not interfere, does not climb into the face;
• not hot in the hot season;
• suitable for short, medium and long curls;
• a great way to lengthen short and medium hair;
• can be braided even for a child;
• you can add brightness and colors to the image without resorting to dyeing;
• look impressive, such a hairstyle will not go unnoticed by others;
• protect hair from harmful external influences;
• wear period reaches 4 months;
• unbraiding afro braids does not cause difficulties.

Cons:

• the first months the scalp hurts, there is discomfort and a feeling of tightness;
• violation of the braiding technology can lead to problems with the hair;
• the braiding process takes up to 8 hours;
• some people have difficulty washing and drying their braids;
• temporary hairstyle, requires regular correction.

Celebrity examples

Numerous American and Russian celebrities have been seen in public sporting African hairstyles. Vibrant braids grab the interest of supporters.

Beyoncé, Miley Cyrus, Christina Aguilera, Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys, Heidi Klum, Zoe Kravitz, Olga Buzova, and Ksenia Sobchak, among others. There are hours of work in this list.

Rihanna and Beyoncé

Keys to the Stars and Zoe Kravitz

Ksenia Sobchak and Olga Buzova

Male celebrities hurried to capitalize on the stunning and stylish metamorphosis as well. Snoop Dogg, Sergio Ramos, David Beckham, and Justin Timberlake are a few of them.

Ramos and Justin Timberlake together

Do you have aspirations of standing out from the crowd? Then you can choose African-American braids. Make an eye-catching and unique impression and bask in the compliments from onlookers!

Even more vibrant and imaginative hairstyles for varying hair lengths:

• hair ears;
• hip-hop hairstyles;
• hair bow;
• punk hairstyles;
• grunge style models;
• rocker options;
• hipster-style hairstyles.

Type	Description
Box Braids	Classic braids divided into square-shaped sections. They are versatile and can be styled in various ways.
Senegalese Twists	Smooth, rope-like twists that are often finer than box braids. They give a sleek, elegant look.
Ghanaian Braids	Also known as cornrows, these braids are close to the scalp and are often braided in patterns.
Micros	Very small and thin braids. They take longer to do but offer a delicate and detailed look.
Feed-In Braids	A technique where hair extensions are gradually added to create a natural-looking braid that starts thin and gets thicker.
Pros	Low maintenance, protects natural hair, can be styled in numerous ways, lasts for weeks.
Cons	Can be time-consuming to install, might cause tension on the scalp, requires regular care to keep looking good.

African braids are a great way to show off your individual style and embrace a rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re going for a simple, elegant look or a bold statement, they have something for everyone thanks to their intricate weaving techniques and diverse types. Every braiding style, from cornrows to box braids, has a unique charm and background that exemplifies the inventiveness and adaptability of braiding customs.

Take your hair type, preferred methods of maintenance, and sense of style into account when selecting the perfect braid. Every braid style has advantages and disadvantages of its own. They can provide durable and adaptable styles, but they also need to be properly cared for to prevent damage. Knowing the benefits and drawbacks of every braid style enables you to choose the one that best meets your requirements.

In general, African braids are a celebration of cultural artistry and individual expression rather than just a hairstyle. You can enjoy these beautiful styles while maintaining the healthiest possible appearance for your hair by becoming knowledgeable about the various braiding techniques and their effects on hair health. There’s always a new style to try and enjoy, regardless of your level of experience with braids.

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