Love braids? So do I! Braids have been around for forever and will never go out of style. Braids offer variety and individuality to each beauty who gets them. However, there are a few things you should consider if you’re thinking about getting braids installed in your hair. Check out this short list outlining the benefits of wearing braids, as well as the cons:
PROS
Braids can last a long time! Typically up to one or two months. I’m a huge fan of long term styles that can remain looking nice and give you a break from styling your own hair. You even have the choice to get the braids around the edges redone to keep your style looking fresh. Just be sure not to pull too tight.
Braids are a great protective style. When your hair is in braids your hair and ends are tucked away and hidden from the earth’s elements which ultimately results in better length retention. If you wish to help keep your ends healthy and grow longer hair, braids are a great way to do just that. Just be sure not to keep them in over 2 months.
Lower maintenance. Having braids installed definitely lowers the amount of maintenance required for your hair but does not completely eliminate it – you still need to maintain your style to keep it looking nice and don’t forget about your scalp or your natural hair underneath the braids. You should continue spiriting a moisturizer (or just water) and seal with a natural oil.
So many braid styling options! There are endless braid styles such as box braids, Ghana braids, jumbo braids, Senegalese twists and the list goes on and on. This gives you the freedom of being as creative as you like!
CONS
Can cause hair breakage and breakage around the edges. If the braids are installed too tight or if your hair is already weakened this will increase the chance of your braids breaking off your hair and/or your edges. This also depends on the size of the braid. Braids that are too large and heavy or really small braids, such as micro braids, are most likely to cause breakage to your real hair.
Braids can be pricey depending on where you go. Also length and size can affect the price of the braid install. Usually the smaller or longer the braids the higher the price.
Braid installation (and removal) can take a long time. Depending on the length and size of the braids, it can take 6-8 hours or more. Make sure you have plenty of time and patience – don’t take it out on your hair and negate all that work you’ve done!
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