Micro braids are a beautiful and versatile hairstyle, known for their tiny size and ability to mimic loose, natural hair. One of the most common questions asked by those wanting to achieve this look is whether standard braiding hair can be used. The answer is generally yes, but with important considerations. Choosing the right type of braiding hair, preparing it correctly, and understanding the potential pros and cons are crucial for achieving the best results.
Understanding Braiding Hair Types
Braiding hair isn’t a one-size-fits-all product. Different fibers, textures, and finishes exist, each with unique characteristics that can affect the outcome of your micro braids. Understanding these differences is the first step towards a successful installation.
Synthetic Braiding Hair
Synthetic braiding hair is the most widely available and affordable option. It’s typically made from materials like Kanekalon, Toyokalon, or other synthetic fibers.
Kanekalon hair is a popular choice due to its realistic texture and heat-resistant properties. This means you can use low heat styling tools to curl or straighten the braids. It’s also relatively lightweight, which is important for micro braids to prevent excessive tension on the scalp.
Toyokalon hair is another synthetic option, often known for its silky texture and affordability. However, it may not be as heat-resistant as Kanekalon.
Synthetic hair is easy to find in various colors and lengths. However, it can sometimes have a plastic-like sheen that may not blend seamlessly with natural hair. Pre-stretched varieties are available and can significantly reduce preparation time.
Human Hair
Human hair braiding hair offers the most natural look and feel. It blends seamlessly with natural hair and can be styled with heat just like your own hair. However, it’s significantly more expensive than synthetic options.
When using human hair for micro braids, consider the hair’s origin and texture. Different textures, such as Brazilian, Malaysian, or Peruvian, will blend differently with various hair types. Virgin hair, which hasn’t been chemically processed, is often preferred for its quality and longevity.
The higher cost of human hair can be offset by its reusability. Micro braids made with human hair can be taken down, washed, and reinstalled, making it a more sustainable option in the long run.
Yarn
While less common, yarn can also be used for micro braids. It provides a soft, lightweight option that’s gentle on the scalp. Acrylic or wool yarn are the typical choices.
Yarn braids have a unique matte finish that can be a stylish alternative to synthetic or human hair. They’re also available in a wide range of colors and are relatively inexpensive.
However, yarn can be more prone to frizzing and may not hold its shape as well as synthetic or human hair. It’s also not heat-resistant, so styling options are limited.
Preparing Braiding Hair for Micro Braids
Regardless of the type of braiding hair you choose, proper preparation is essential for achieving neat and long-lasting micro braids. This involves cleaning the hair, separating it into small sections, and potentially texturizing it for a better blend.
Cleaning the Hair
Synthetic braiding hair often has an alkaline coating that can irritate the scalp. To remove this coating, soak the hair in a mixture of warm water and apple cider vinegar for about 30 minutes. This helps to neutralize the pH level and reduce itchiness.
After soaking, rinse the hair thoroughly with water and allow it to air dry completely before braiding. This step is particularly important for synthetic hair but can also be beneficial for human hair to remove any manufacturing residue.
Separating and Sectioning
Micro braids require very small sections of hair. Separating the braiding hair into these small sections can be time-consuming but is crucial for achieving a uniform look.
Use a rat-tail comb to carefully separate the hair into the desired thickness. Pre-stretched braiding hair can simplify this process, as it’s already divided into smaller bundles. Consistent section sizes will contribute to a more polished and professional finish.
Texturizing the Hair (Optional)
Depending on the texture of your natural hair and the braiding hair you’ve chosen, you may want to texturize the braiding hair for a better blend. This is particularly relevant when using synthetic hair that has a very smooth or silky texture.
Texturizing can be achieved by lightly crimping or teasing the braiding hair. This creates a slightly rougher texture that mimics the natural texture of your hair. This step can help the braids lay flatter and blend more seamlessly.
Pros and Cons of Using Braiding Hair for Micro Braids
Using braiding hair for micro braids offers several advantages, but it also comes with potential drawbacks. Understanding these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision about whether this hairstyle is right for you.
Pros
Versatility: Braiding hair offers a wide range of colors, textures, and lengths, allowing you to create a variety of micro braid styles. You can experiment with different looks, from natural-looking braids to bold and colorful designs.
Affordability: Synthetic braiding hair is a cost-effective option for micro braids, especially compared to using human hair. This makes it an accessible hairstyle for those on a budget.
Lightweight: Many types of braiding hair are lightweight, which is important for micro braids to prevent excessive tension on the scalp. This reduces the risk of hair breakage and discomfort.
Protective Styling: Micro braids can be a protective style, shielding your natural hair from environmental damage and reducing the need for daily styling. This can promote hair growth and improve overall hair health.
Cons
Installation Time: Micro braids are a time-consuming hairstyle to install, regardless of the type of hair used. The tiny braids require patience and precision, which can make the installation process lengthy.
Maintenance: While micro braids are a low-maintenance style, they still require regular care to prevent tangling and breakage. This includes moisturizing the scalp, wrapping the braids at night, and avoiding excessive manipulation.
Potential for Damage: If micro braids are installed too tightly or maintained improperly, they can lead to hair breakage and scalp irritation. Proper technique and gentle handling are essential to minimize the risk of damage.
Blending Issues: Synthetic braiding hair may not always blend seamlessly with natural hair, especially if the textures are very different. Texturizing the braiding hair and choosing a color that closely matches your natural hair can help to improve the blend.
Installation Techniques
The installation of micro braids is a delicate process that requires precision and patience. There are several techniques to consider, each with its own advantages.
Traditional Three-Strand Braiding
This is the most common method for installing micro braids. It involves dividing a small section of natural hair into three strands and interweaving it with three strands of braiding hair. The braid is then continued down the length of the hair.
This technique provides a secure and long-lasting braid. However, it can be time-consuming, especially when working with very small sections.
Crochet Method
The crochet method involves attaching pre-made micro braids to your natural hair using a crochet needle. This can significantly reduce installation time.
While faster, the crochet method may not look as natural as traditional braiding. The attachment points may also be more visible.
Individual Strand Method
This method involves wrapping individual strands of braiding hair around small sections of natural hair. This creates a very natural and seamless look.
The individual strand method is highly time-consuming and requires a high level of skill. It’s often used for creating very small and intricate braid styles.
Choosing the Right Color and Length
Selecting the appropriate color and length of braiding hair is crucial for achieving the desired look. Consider your natural hair color and the overall style you want to create.
Color Matching
For a natural-looking micro braid style, choose a braiding hair color that closely matches your natural hair. You can also opt for a slightly lighter or darker shade to add dimension.
Experimenting with ombre or highlighted braiding hair can create a more unique and stylish look. However, ensure that the color transition is seamless and well-blended.
Length Considerations
The length of the braiding hair will determine the overall length of your micro braids. Consider your personal preferences and lifestyle when choosing a length.
Longer braids can be more versatile in terms of styling options, but they also require more maintenance. Shorter braids are easier to manage but may limit your styling options.
Maintaining Micro Braids
Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your micro braids and preventing damage to your natural hair. This includes regular cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting the braids at night.
Cleansing
Cleanse your scalp regularly with a diluted shampoo to remove dirt and buildup. Avoid using harsh shampoos that can dry out your hair and scalp.
Focus on cleansing the scalp and gently massaging the shampoo in with your fingertips. Rinse thoroughly and avoid excessive rubbing or pulling on the braids.
Moisturizing
Keep your scalp and braids moisturized with a light oil or leave-in conditioner. This helps to prevent dryness and breakage.
Apply the moisturizer to your scalp and gently massage it in. You can also apply a small amount of moisturizer to the length of the braids to keep them hydrated.
Nighttime Protection
Wrap your micro braids in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet before going to bed. This helps to prevent friction and tangling.
You can also sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase for added protection. This will help to keep your braids smooth and prevent them from becoming frizzy.
When to Remove Micro Braids
It’s important to remove micro braids after a reasonable amount of time to prevent matting and breakage. Leaving them in for too long can also lead to scalp problems.
Recommended Timeframe
Generally, micro braids should be removed after 8-12 weeks. Leaving them in for longer than this can increase the risk of damage.
Pay attention to your hair and scalp. If you notice excessive shedding, breakage, or scalp irritation, it’s time to remove the braids.
Proper Removal Technique
Remove micro braids carefully and gently to avoid causing damage to your natural hair. Use a small pair of scissors to cut the braiding hair at the base of the braid.
Unravel the braid slowly and carefully, detangling any knots or mats with your fingers. Avoid pulling or tugging on the hair.
After removing the braids, wash and deep condition your natural hair to replenish moisture and restore its health.
Final Thoughts
Using braiding hair for micro braids is a viable option that offers versatility, affordability, and a protective styling solution. However, success hinges on selecting the right type of braiding hair, proper preparation, careful installation, and diligent maintenance. By understanding the pros and cons and following the guidelines outlined, you can achieve beautiful, long-lasting micro braids that promote healthy hair growth.
What type of braiding hair is best for micro braids?
Synthetic braiding hair, particularly Kanekalon or similar high-quality fibers, is generally preferred for micro braids due to its lightweight nature and ability to hold intricate styles well. The fine texture of some synthetic hair types closely mimics natural hair, creating a seamless and natural-looking blend.
Human hair can also be used, but it tends to be heavier and may require more maintenance to prevent tangling or frizzing. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your desired look, budget, and personal preference for maintenance. Consider the overall weight of the braids and how it will affect your scalp and hair follicles.
Can I use pre-stretched braiding hair for micro braids?
Yes, pre-stretched braiding hair can be a convenient option for micro braids. It saves time and effort by eliminating the need to manually stretch the hair, which can be a tedious process. Pre-stretched hair also tends to have a smoother, more uniform texture that’s ideal for creating neat and defined micro braids.
However, ensure the pre-stretched hair is fine enough for the desired micro braid size. Some pre-stretched options might be too thick, making the braids bulky and heavy. Check reviews and consider purchasing a small amount to test before committing to a full pack.
How much braiding hair do I need for micro braids?
The amount of braiding hair needed for micro braids varies greatly depending on the desired length, thickness, and fullness of the braids, as well as the size of your head. Generally, you’ll need significantly more hair for micro braids compared to larger braids.
As a rough estimate, expect to use anywhere from 4 to 8 packs of braiding hair. It is best to overestimate initially and have extra hair on hand, rather than running out mid-braid. Any leftover hair can be stored for future touch-ups or other braiding styles.
Are there any special considerations when choosing hair color for micro braids?
When choosing hair color for micro braids, consider your natural hair color and skin tone for a seamless and natural look. Selecting a color that closely matches your hair or complements your skin will help blend the braids effortlessly.
If you’re opting for a bolder or more vibrant color, ensure it complements your overall style and personality. Also, be mindful of the dye content in some synthetic hairs, especially if you have sensitive skin, as some dyes may cause irritation. Pre-washing the braiding hair can sometimes help reduce this.
Can I reuse braiding hair after taking out micro braids?
Reusing braiding hair after taking out micro braids is generally not recommended due to hygiene concerns and potential damage to the hair fibers. Braiding hair can accumulate oils, product buildup, and bacteria during wear, making it unsanitary for reuse.
Additionally, the braiding hair fibers may become tangled, matted, or damaged during the braiding and removal process, compromising its quality and appearance. It’s best to use fresh braiding hair for each new installation to maintain cleanliness and achieve the best results.
How do I maintain micro braids made with braiding hair?
Maintaining micro braids made with braiding hair involves gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and protection to prevent dryness, breakage, and frizz. Regularly cleanse your scalp with a diluted shampoo solution and apply a lightweight oil or braid spray to keep the hair moisturized.
Wrapping your braids in a satin scarf or bonnet at night will help reduce friction and tangling while you sleep. Avoid excessive pulling or manipulation of the braids, and trim any stray or frizzy hairs to keep the style looking neat and polished.
How long can I keep micro braids in my hair?
The recommended duration for wearing micro braids is typically between 6 to 8 weeks. Leaving braids in for longer periods can lead to excessive hair breakage, matting, and scalp issues due to product buildup and neglect.
It is crucial to listen to your hair and scalp. If you notice any signs of discomfort, itching, or excessive shedding, it’s best to remove the braids sooner. Proper aftercare and maintenance are essential to minimizing damage and promoting healthy hair growth during and after wearing micro braids.