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What You Didn't Know About Micro Braids

By: Marquetta Breslin The ancient art of braiding has been around since early Egyptian times. Just like other styles have evolved, braiding has changed greatly since it was first introduced. This traditional hairstyle is still being passed on from generation to generation in African cultures, and the same holds true for American society!

When you think of a braid, you probably are thinking of a ''basic braid'', which is the most commonly seen braiding style. This braid consists of intertwining three separate strands of hair over each other, making one large braid. Braiding, for the most part, starts from the forehead or crown area of a persons head. Unlike cornrows, microbraids don't lay flat on the head. Instead, the single braids hang in a downward directions and are free flowing.

To have beautiful micro braids, just follow a few easy guidelines:

*Healthy hair is easier to maintain, and micro braids can be stressful on the hair. Try getting a deep-conditioning treatment before braiding. Trimming the hair to remove split ends could cause less stray hairs from popping out of the braid.

*Not sure if getting micro braids on chemically straightened hair is a good idea? Make sure to consult with your stylist first before getting this style done

*Many people like to add extension hair to their natural hair to give their braids more length and volume. If you plan on doing this, make sure you match the extension hair with either the middle or ends of your natural hair. The root of the hair is always darker than the middle and ends.

*If you have micro braids, don't use any thick and heavy shampoos, conditioners, or pomades. These types of products can leave residue on your braids and could cause an itchy, flaky scalp. Try using a ''dry'' shampoo or astringent to clean the scalp.

*Many people keep their hair in micro braids because this style encourages growth. However, your hair should always be healthy before having micro braids.

*It is very important that your micro braids not be too small or too tight. This is why it is vital that a professional stylist completes micro braids. Having them too tight could put tension on the scalp and cause the hair to thin.

*Eating healthy food, drinking plenty of water, maintaining regular sleeping habits, and avoiding unnecessary stress are always good tips. The better health you are in, the better health your hair will be in, too.

Micro braids are loved because they are easy to maintain and very versatile when it comes to potential styles. However, they must be maintained to achieve their beautiful appearance. This maintenance routine includes conditioning and moisturizing regularly with a mild shampoo. To avoid residue on the scalp, you can dilute your products slightly.

Micro braids should be worn for a maximum of three months. Wearing them for longer than that could damage your natural hair. When you ready to take out your braids, snip the braid at the beginning of the extension hair, but make sure not to cut your natural hair. With wet hair, comb and pick the ends with a medium-toothed comb. Start doing this at the bottom and work your way up to the root. When this is complete, it's important to wash your hair at least once with a clarifying shampoo. Regular shampoos don't remove dirt and debris like clarifying shampoos do. After washing with clarifying shampoo, wash and condition your hair like you normally would. Then dry and style just like you always do!

Article Source: http://www.lifeweightloss.com

Marquetta, founder of Braids By Breslin, has been braiding and weaving hair for over 14 years. For more information on micro braids, please visit Marquetta at www.braidsbybreslin.com.

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