Tribal braids are a type of braiding style that features intricate and unique patterns inspired by various African tribes. These braids are typically created using synthetic braiding hair, which is added to your natural hair to create length and volume.
The braids are often styled in large, thick sections and can be left loose or styled into various updos.
The Benefits of Tribal Braids
There are numerous benefits to choosing tribal braid as your protective style, including:
- Protection: Tribal braids offer excellent protection for your natural hair, helping to prevent breakage and damage from styling tools, environmental factors, and everyday wear and tear.
- Low Maintenance: Once installed, tribal braid require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for busy lifestyles or those who don’t have the time or energy for daily styling.
- Versatility: With tribal braids, you have a wide range of styling options, from intricate updos to simple ponytails, and everything in between.
- Length and Volume: By using synthetic braiding hair, tribal braid can add significant length and volume to your natural hair, giving you a full and luxurious look.
- Style: Tribal braids are a stylish and unique way to express your individuality and cultural heritage.
Preparing Your Hair for Tribal Braid
Before getting tribal braids, it’s essential to prepare your hair properly to ensure the best results. This includes:
- Detangling: Make sure your hair is thoroughly detangled and free of knots and tangles. This will make it easier to braid and prevent breakage during the installation process.
- Cleansing: Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup or excess oil that may interfere with the braiding process.
- Moisturizing: Apply a deep conditioning treatment to your hair to add moisture and prepare it for the braiding process.
How to Achieve Tribal Braid
Achieving tribal braid requires a few essential steps, including:
- Sectioning: Divide your hair into small, even sections using clips or hair ties. This will make it easier to braid and ensure that each braid is the same size.
- Adding Braiding Hair: Take a small section of synthetic braiding hair and fold it in half. Then, place the folded end of the hair under your natural hair and braid it in using the three-strand method.
- Braiding: Continue braiding the synthetic hair into your natural hair until you reach the end of the braid. Secure the end with a hair tie or rubber band.
Styling Your Tribal Braids
There are numerous ways to style your tribal braid, including:
- Updos: Create intricate updos using your braids, such as buns, twists, and braided crowns.
- Ponytails: Create high or low ponytails using your braids, either leaving them loose or wrapping them around the base of the ponytail.
- Half Up, Half Down: Create a half-up, half-down hairstyle using your braids, leaving the rest of your hair loose.
- Accessories: Add accessories like beads, cowrie shells, or scarves to your braids to add a pop of color and personality.
Maintaining Your Tribal Braid
To keep your tribal braids looking their best, follow these maintenance tips:
- Moisturize: Spray your braids with a leave-in conditioner or oil to keep them hydrated and prevent dryness.
- Cleanse: Use a cleansing spray or dry shampoo to keep your scalp clean and free of buildup.
- Sleep with a Satin Scarf: Cover your braids with a satin scarf or bonnet when you sleep to prevent frizz and breakage.
- Avoid Heat: Avoid using heat styling tools on your braids, as this can cause damage and frizz.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Tribal Braid
To ensure the best results with your tribal braid, avoid these common mistakes:
- Braiding too tight: Braiding too tight can cause tension and damage to your natural hair.
- Leaving them in too long: Leaving your braids in for too long can cause matting, tangling, and breakage.
- Not moisturizing: Failing to moisturize your braids can cause dryness and breakage.
- Not cleaning your scalp: A dirty scalp can lead to itching, irritation, and even infection.
Best Products for Tribal Braids
To keep your tribal braid looking their best, try these top products:
- Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie: This hydrating cream adds moisture and definition to your braids.
- Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Leave-In Conditioner: This leave-in conditioner adds shine and hydration to your braids.
- Creme of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges Control: This edge control gel helps to tame frizz and flyaways around your hairline.
Styling Inspiration for Tribal Braid
Looking for inspiration for your tribal braid? Check out these styling ideas:
- Braided Crown: Create a braided crown using your braids, leaving the rest of your hair loose.
- Twisted Updo: Twist your braids into an updo, securing them with bobby pins and hair ties.
- Low Ponytail: Create a sleek low ponytail using your braids, wrapping them around the base of the ponytail.
- Half Up, Half Down: Create a half-up, half-down style using your braids, leaving the rest of your hair loose.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tribal Braids
How long do tribal braids last?
Tribal braid can last anywhere from four to eight weeks, depending on how well you maintain them.
Can you wash tribal braid?
Yes, you can wash your tribal braids, but it’s important to be gentle and avoid scrubbing or rubbing the braids.
Can you swim with tribal braid?
Yes, you can swim with tribal braids, but it’s important to wear a swim cap and rinse your braids thoroughly with fresh water after swimming.
How much do tribal braid cost?
The cost of tribal braids varies depending on the stylist, location, and the length and thickness of your hair.
Can you do tribal braid on short hair?
Yes, you can do tribal braid on short hair, but you may need to add more synthetic braiding hair to achieve the desired length and volume.
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