How to Differentiate 9 Types of Braids for Black Hair
Braiding hair is a tradition that’s been around since 3500 BC. There’s evidence that shows the cornrow hairstyle has been around since the Stone Age. African hair braiding was an integral tradition of the early tribes because the braided style could either indicate one’s status, age, or even tribe. Since then, different braiding styles have emerged and evolved to the point where there’s plenty to choose from.
There are several different types of braids for Black hair — each of which can complement your unique style preferences. From the durability of micro braids to the soft, smooth texture of Senegalese twists, there’s a braid style that can please just about anyone.
What braids are taking the latest trends by storm? How can you distinguish one type of braid from another? In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about braids, how they’re installed, and how you can incorporate some of the most popular braid styles into your daily style. Here are nine different types of braids for Black hair that’ll have you booking your next appointment at the hair salon by the time you’re through with this article.
1. Cornrow Braids
Cornrow braids are a classic, easy-to-maintain braid that can be worn in a simple, straight-back style or paired with an updo or curls for a more elegant look. You may also hear them referred to in some braiding shops as scalp braids. That’s because they’re braided very close to the scalp for a look that lays flat, hugging your head tightly.
Cornrows are an attractive option for many because of their versatility and because they can be formed using various hair lengths and textures. It’s important to note that for people with short hair, your locks have to be at least two inches long, especially when you’re using some type of hair extension. Opt for an intricate, eye-catching design or use them instead to add length to your hair by braiding extensions into them. You can experiment with other hair braiding styles using cornrows as the foundation to create lemonade braids, ghana braids, faux locs, knotless braids, goddess braid, crochet braid, etc. Whatever your aesthetic, cornrow braids will keep your hair healthy and you feeling your best.
Cornrow braids can last anywhere from two to six weeks with proper maintenance.
2. Box Braids
Box braids are not only a protective, low-maintenance way to wear your hair but are also deeply rooted in Black history, with origins going back as far as 3500 B.C. The name itself is due to the distinct, box-shaped part at the root of each one of these three-strand braids.
What else sets this type of braid hairstyle apart from the rest?
Unlike cornrow braids that are snug to your scalp, box braids flow freely, allowing for beautiful volume and natural bounce. The way a box braid is attached is by braiding the synthetic extension with the sectioned-off hair. Wondering, how to style box braids? Box braids can be worn long and loose, pulled back entirely into a braided bun or ponytail, and even styled as a half-up-half-down look. Talk to your hair braider to help you decide on the thickness of each plait or if you’re interested in adding extensions.
The lifespan of this look?
With proper care and upkeep, box braids can last for a maximum of ten weeks. However, it is essential that you find a stylist who can help you achieve and maintain this look. Whether you are searching for the best box braids Washington DC, Atlanta, or even San Diego has to offer, StyleSeat can connect you to the local professionals instantly.
3. Triangle Box Braids
You’ll still get free-flowing locks with this style, but there is a noticeable difference in how the hair is sectioned off when creating this slightly tweaked version of box braids. A simple change in part — from box to triangle — makes a big difference and gives this classic look an edgier upgrade.
Play around with braid thickness, side and center parts, or even hair color to make this style all your own. Chalia Mangrum, an Ohio-based braider, calls triangle box braids a trend suitable for a wide variety of hair textures. Like the regular box braid, you can be creative with how you style the plaits.
So, how long do box braids last? With proper care, you’ll be able to keep your triangle box braids looking fresh for four to six weeks.
4. Senegalese Twists
If your hair could use a break from daily styling and the excess use of hot tools like flat irons or curling irons, Senegalese twists are a stunning way to look after your hair and even promote hair growth.
With these types of hair braids, synthetic or human hair is attached to the root of your natural hair, separated into two strands, and wrapped all the way down each hair shaft. The result? Sleek-looking twists that can be swept off to the side or pinned back. They offer a slightly different texture than a classic, three-strand braid.
This long-lasting braids hairstyle can be worn for up to sixteen weeks when properly maintained.
5. Nubian Twists
Another twist with origins that can be traced as far back as Ancient Egypt is the Nubian twist. The installation process is somewhat similar to that of the Senegalese twist, but the result is quite different — specifically in terms of texture and length. Because of how the twists are attached to the hair, the Nubian twist is considered one of many types of crochet braids.
Tight coils are the most obvious visual difference between these twist braids and the Senegalese alternative. You’ll also find Nubian twists worn in shorter hairstyles, often resting just above the shoulder.
This look is an attractive option for those who prefer a style that is lightweight, versatile, and bit faster to install than other braid types.
Wear this unique, easy-to-maintain look for up to two months.
6. Micro Braids
Of all the different types of hair braids for Black hair, this braiding style may not look much like a braid at all. In contrast to the varying thickness of cornrows and box braids, micro braids are always created using very small sections of hair, resulting in plaits that look and feel more like a thick strand of hair rather than interlaced braids.
As you can probably imagine, this style can’t be completed in a quick, hour-long session at the salon. If you’re hoping to try out this look, you should set aside a whole day for your appointment and plan to spend a bit more than you would for other braid types.
Compared to other Black braided hairstyles, this durable hairstyle can be expected to last for up to three months with proper care.
7. Fulani Braids
The Fulani braids are one of many African braids styles that have become more mainstream. With a standard installation of cornrows, this braids style oftens starts at your hairline and follows a straight line back. On the other hand, Fulani braids are characterized by just one straight-back braid, paired with others that flow in opposite directions across the crown of your head, often toward your ears or temples.
Another appealing detail of Fulani braids is the combination of scalp-hugging cornrows on the top and the volumizing effect of box braids in the back. Feel free to get creative with this style by adding curls, extensions, or a pop of brightly colored beads.
You can expect Fulani braids to last between three and five weeks or perhaps longer if you stop into your local braiding shop to touch up the front section.
8. Flat Twist Braids
If you’re hoping to turn heads at your next formal event, book an appointment at your nearby salon to install flat twist braids. Let your braider help you design a one-of-a-kind look by parting each section in varying widths and angles. Choose just a couple of thick twists starting at your hairline, part them to the side, and sweep them down into a low bun. Or separate your hair into multiple sections of medium thickness that will later be incorporated into a sophisticated updo.
Flat twist braids are similar to cornrows because of how they lay flat on your scalp, but the texture of a twist — as opposed to a three-strand plait — gives this style a soft, elegant flare.
Flat twist braids can be prone to frizz and are best for those looking to change their look after a short period of time. Most will last about one week.
9. Havana Twist
If big and beautiful is your preferred plait aesthetic, head to your favorite salon and request Havana twists. You can expect a six to eight-hour appointment for the installation of these braids, but the voluminous curls twisted with lightweight, synthetic hair will make it all worthwhile. Similar to knotless braid styles, the Havana twist is usually worn as a protective hairstyle.
Nubian twists, as you know, are coiled tightly and most often kept at mid-length. In contrast, Havana twists tend to be worn in long, thick strands for ultra-full-looking hair that can be left loose or pulled back into a bun, ponytail, or a half-up hairstyle.
Keep these twists well moisturized and wear them for up to eight weeks.
Whichever style you choose, keep your hair healthy by regularly maintaining the braids and using the best products for natural hair. It helps to get a natural hair treatment, especially after removing the braids, to keep your locks healthy and strong.
Beautiful Braids Start With StyleSeat
Whether you prefer the lightweight appeal of Nubian twists or the endless possibilities of cornrows, StyleSeat can put your hair in the hands of beauty professionals in your area. This streamlined search allows you to locate hair braiders in your neighborhood, scroll through their portfolios, find out more about their available services, and even book an appointment all in one place. Using our online booking app, you can also search for qualified stylists that specialize in the most popular braid styles in Atlanta, LA, and Washington, D.C. by scouring through our website.
Whenever you’re ready to update your look or give your hair a break from daily styling, be sure you connect with a beauty professional specializing in braiding and works with you to help you achieve your desired results. From root to tip, beautiful braids start right here.
Sources:
Ebony. The History of Box Braids. https://www.ebony.com/style/history-box-braids/#axzz4rJSA4WVj
Ebena. Nubian Twists. https://ebena.net/style/nubian-twists/56
All Things Hair. Everything You Need to Know About Cornrows. https://www.allthingshair.com/en-us/hairstyles-haircuts/braids/cornrows-basics/
All Things Hair. 46 Braid Styles for Black Women We Absolutely Love. https://www.allthingshair.com/en-us/hairstyles-haircuts/natural-hairstyles/types-of-braids-for-black-hair/
