When we think of braid hairstyles, it’s always hard to choose just one during so many braiding styles out there. We usually think of lemon braids, boxer braids, dutch braids, two-strand twists, and so on, but have you heard of micro braids? Micro braids are one of our eye-catching, long-lasting, protective hairstyles that have been an all-time favorite. If you’re looking for a protective style to rock this year, we’ve got you covered with everything you’ll ever need on micro braids. Whether you have dark brown hair or ash-blonde locks, this is a look you’ll want to try.
I. What Are Micro Braids?
Micro braids are tiny braids so small they often resemble thick strands of hair. As you might imagine, these hairstyle take hours to install and sometimes even longer to remove. However, the time spent is well worth it because this look provides a level of versatility that few other braid styles can. Because the braids are so thin, they can frequently be treated and styled like natural hair.
When installing whether, with your natural hair or added hair extensions, only a few strands of hair are used at a time. As a result, the braids are frequently much lighter than other protective styles like box braids or faux locs. This allows you to style the braids like regular strands of hair, allowing you to achieve looks like curling iron curls, additional braids, buns, or ponytails.
II. How Long Does It Take To Make Micro Braids?
Micro braids are one of the most sophisticated protective styles. Making micro braids takes a long time because each braid is so small. Typically, it’s take 3-12 hours to complete, but this can vary depending on the length and thickness of the hair, as well as the length of the extensions and the speed with which the stylist weaves.
III. How Long Do Micro Braids Last?
You can wear this hairstyle for 1 day to 8 – 12 weeks, depending on how well you care for them (the better the care, the longer they will last). If you want them to last longer, then you need to provide good maintenance and care for them. However, we do not recommend keeping them for more than 8 weeks without making an appointment with your stylist. They can advise you on whether it is safe to leave your strands for a little longer or if it is time to remove them.
IV. How To Do Micro Braids?
Micro braids are one of the most sophisticated protective styles. Still, they require thoughtful prep, deft fingers & endurance.
Step #1: Prep Hair Well In Advance
Installing and maintaining micro braids requires healthy hair. Some hairstylists recommend prepping your hair up to 14 days ahead of time before attempting this braided hairstyle. This is not an absolute requirement, but it emphasizes the importance of properly nourishing your hair.
- Shampoo & Condition: Use a clarifying shampoo before braiding your hair to remove impurities. Condition as usual after shampooing, but use a thick, buttery formula to seal your strands with a protective barrier to prevent damage.
- Detangling With Wide-Tooth Brush: Starting at the back of your head, section out your hair & apply the nectar from your roots to your ends. Detangle gently. Allow your hair to air dry or use a low to medium-heat blow dryer before proceeding to the next step.
Step #2: Part & Braid
The part of your hair determines the overall look. You can choose a traditional center part, a side part, or a diamond part, or you can be as creative as you want. Besides that, you also can choose to braid your hair with or without hair extensions. Once you’ve made your choice, proceed as follows:
1. Section Your Hair With A Comb
Start by sectioning off a ¼ inch section of hair at the nape of your neck for braiding first. Create the layer at the nape of your neck with your rat tail comb. Clip the rest of your hair up so that it stays out of your way while you braid. You will put braids in this section of your hair first, and then you will section off another ¼ inch above the layer at the nape of your neck and braid that section next. Repeat the process section by section until your entire head is braided.
2. Braid
Separate your hair into 3 equal sections, and do a classic braid. Braid your hair by braiding the left strand over the center strand and then the right strand over the center strand all the way down the hair.
Step #3: Tie Your Braid Off.
At the end of your braid, use a small silicone hair tie to tie it off. Wrap the tie around the end of the braid several times until it is snug and secure on the end of the braid.
*Tips: Micro braids can take several hours. In case you need a break & want to pick up where you left off at a later time – even the next day – begin your micro braids around the perimeter of your face. This will give you the option of pulling your hair back into a low bun until you’re ready to return to them.*
V. The Popular And Stylish Micro Braids For You
Do you want to know what micro-braid hairstyles are fashionable and appealing? We will show you some popular and chic hairstyles below, and you can choose the hairstyle that best suits your preferences and style.
1. Layered Micro Box Braids
When you saw this hairstyle for the first time, were you deeply attracted? This gorgeous style takes locket braids in a whole new direction, giving them a playful halo of multiple layers that creates the lovely look of feathers flipping inward, which is just as flattering and appealing as it gets.
2. Stunning Curly Micro Braids
If you like curly hair, then these stunning curly micro braids will definitely be your favorite. These hairstyle are lightweight, and tension-free and help lock in moisture and protect your hair from any breakage. In addition, micro braids and curls are very stylish and popular together and are sure to make you a bright star in the crowd. If you are already attracted to this hairstyle, then give it a try.
3. Colorful Straight Micro Braids
These straight micro braids have highlights added to them to show a multi-dimension effect. Add color to single braids to make your hair more fun.
4. Micro Braids Ponytail
You want to combine micro braids and ponytails together, right? That’s certainly possible. When you design these braids into a sleek ponytail, micro braids become super stylish and give people the impression that you are competent, airy, and spontaneous, perfect for working women. You can also wear these braids in a low ponytail if you want to maintain a relaxed look throughout the day.
VI. Conclusion
After reading this article, do you have a good understanding of micro braids? Have you picked out your favorite micro braid hairstyle? Hurry up and start your journey to a new hairstyle. Of course, if you have other good-looking micro braid hairstyles, you can share them with us in the comment section.
Thanks so much for sharing this information on microbraids. It was very helpful and it will be the second time to have braids and I am 68 years young.