With so many braiding styles, picking one that suits your hair perfectly is tough. In this regard, micro braids are a classic hairstyle.
The tiny braids not only give a nice bounce to the hair but, in fact, are also a protective hairstyle. Unlike other braids, micro braids are easier to wear as you can treat your hair normally without any restrictions.
But what hair to use for micro braids? You can use hair extensions to make the braids. However, natural hair is the best for making micro braids.
Keep reading the article to know more about micro braids.
What Kind Of Hair Do You Use For Micro Braids
Micro braids are a protective hairstyle where the braids are made so small and thin that the hair can be treated as if you’d treat non-braided hair. With micro braids on, you can style your hair as you wish. Ponytails, coloring, iron curling, and even more braids can be installed in addition to micro braids.
Regardless of dark brown or ash blonde locks, micro braids won’t disappoint you! You can’t go wrong with micro braids; it’s a versatile hairstyle!
Usually, it’s recommended to make the braids with a few hair strands, whether you have natural hair or extensions. Consequently, the resulting braids are particularly light and lean, unlike other protective hairstyles.
It’s best to install micro braids with natural hair. A huge plus point of this hairstyle is that it can be made on any type of hair, long or short. Although short hair is better suited for this style, long hair requires extra moisturization.
To make the short-haired braids look long and full, you can use hair extensions. Natural straight hair works great with extensions. Generally, the braids are done in a linear or wavy pattern.
Micro braids work excellently with relaxed, natural, and transitioning hair. However, coarse hair types (ranging from 3A to 4C) are most suitable for micro braids. While most extensions use synthetic hair to produce a wavy and liner effect, it’s recommended to use human hair extensions as they don’t get tangled as easily.
There are two types of natural hair extensions used extensively-
- European Human Hair
- Russian Human Hair
How Many Packs Of Hair Do You Need For Micro Braids
The amount of extensions needed depends on the hairstyle since micro braids can be of different types. The more braids, the more extensions are required.
But a point to be noted is that the length of extensions shouldn’t be more than 2.5 times your natural hair. We suggest you use a six-pack, synthetic, or human hair extension bundle.
Things you should keep in mind when installing micro braids-
1. Synthetic Hair Braiding
You can find hair synthetic hair extensions in a variety of colors and textures. While using synthetic extensions, check whether they’re heat resistant, as they may need iron heating when making curls.
If extensions are used to make micro braids, you must use a hooded or blow dryer to dry the hair completely after washing. Doing so ensures there’s no formation of dandruff, fungus, or molds on the scalp.
2. Price Of Hair Extensions
The prices for synthetic hair extensions start from $50. High-quality and branded extensions cost more, starting from $80 to $120. The price depends on the materials used and the length of the extensions.
Compared to synthetic ones, natural hair extensions are more expensive. While most non-permanent natural hair extensions cost $200, semi-permanent ones can cost up to $400 to $600.
3. Number Of Braids In Micro Braids
For micro braids, each group consists of about eight to ten strands of hair, and three groups make up a single braid. As for the number of knots, it depends on the hair length.
4. Time Taken To Make Micro Braids
Out of all braiding styles, micro braids take the longest. It can take five to twelve hours to install micro braids. If the hair is naturally thick and dense, it takes even more time. For a wavy effect, straight extensions are used, and although it takes much time, the results are excellent.
The whole process isn’t done in one sitting, and it’s usually spanned over a day or two.
5. How Long To Keep Micro Braids On
You can leave the micro braids on for six to eight weeks. The longevity of the braids depends on your hair quality and how you take care of it. It’s recommended not to keep the braids on for more than 90 days.
FAQs
What do you put on micro braids?
Before braiding, you should apply a clarifying shampoo and a hydrating hair gel. After the braids are installed, it’s best to use a moisturizing hair serum. And finally, while detangling, apply hot oil or castor oil.
Can I braid my micro locs?
Micro braids can be self-made, but keep in mind that without any help, it will be a lengthy and tiresome process. Depending on the length and thickness of your hair, it can take anywhere between 4 to 8 hours to make micro braids.
Are micro braids good for your hair?
The pros of micro braids are numerous: versatile, easy to install, and allow rough treatment. But those with thinning and frail hair should avoid the style. First of all, the braids won’t look good on thin hair. On top of that, the tiny braids can pull on the scalp and cause hair to fall or further weaken the hair.
Can you wash micro braids?
It’s best if the micro braids are washed only once or twice a week, as frequent washing can loosen the knots. Moreover, repeated water contact will make the braids look buckled and disproportionate.
Verdict
With so many types of braiding styles out there, it’s tough to decide what hair to use for micro braids. The versatility of micro braids allows them to be worn on any hair type, although the use of extensions is recommended.
Hope all your queries were answered in this article. Good luck!
