What You Didn't Know About Micro Braids

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!

The most commonly seen type of braid is known as a ''basic braid''. Consisting of intertwining three equally sized strands of hair to form one large braid, a basic braid is one of the easiest braiding styles to achieve. The term ''micro braid'' means lots of very small braids covering the entire head. Micro braids generally start from the crown or forehead area of a persons head. While cornrows are braids that lay flat on the head, microbraids hang in a downward direction and flow freely, just like your natural hair.

Here are few tips to keep in mind for Micro Braids:

*Make sure you hair is in good health before getting micro braids, because this style can be stressful on the hair shaft and root. I recommend getting a deep-conditioning treatment before you get micro braids, but you should also go ahead and get your split ends trimmed, if you have any.

*If you have a relaxer, you should consult with your stylist before getting micro braids.

*If you're adding extension hair to your braids to make your hair fuller and longer, opt for the type of hair that matches the middle or ends of your hair. The roots of your hair always appear darker.

*Micro braids can be difficult to clean. If you have micro braids, don't use any thick shampoos, conditioners, pomades, or other styling products. These can leave nasty residue on your braids and could cause your scalp to become dry and itchy. Try diluting your products with water to use on your braids.

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

*Your micro braids should ALWAYS be completed by a professional stylist. The reason for this is because having braids that are too tight or too small can put undesired weight and tension on the scalp, as a result this could cause traction alopecia.

*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.

Many people desire micro braids because they are very versatile when it comes to styling possibilities. They are also one of the easier styles to care for. You can't just leave your braids alone and expect them to look beautiful day after day. For beautiful braids, make sure you are moisturizing and conditioning regularly. If your styling products are too thick, you can dilute them slightly so they will be less likely to cause build up on the scalp.

Micro braids should not be worn for longer than three months. Wearing them for any longer could pose a risk to your hair. When you?re ready to take out your braids, start by cutting your extension hair as close as possible to your natural hair. Wet the hair, then comb and pick the ends with a medium-toothed comb, working your way to the root. Finally, comb your natural hair with a wide-toothed comb. One this is done it will be extremely helpful to shampoo your hair first with a clarifying shampoo to aid in ridding the hair of dirt and residue. Then shampoo again when your normal shampoo. Be sure to also condition the hair as well. After you do this, you're ready to style the hair as usual!

About the Author

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