Introduction
Crochet braids are a popular protective style for black people’s hair. They are versatile, can be styled in a variety of ways, and can last for several weeks. However, not all crochet braids are created equal. Some styles are more flattering on certain face shapes than others, and some techniques can damage your hair.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of crochet braids available, how to choose the right style for your face shape, and how to care for your crochet braids to avoid damage.
Types of Crochet Braids
There are two main types of crochet braids:
- Latch hook crochet braids: This type of crochet braid is created using a latch hook tool to loop the hair extensions through your own hair. Latch hook crochet braids are relatively easy to install and can be done at home. However, they can be more time-consuming to install than other types of crochet braids.
- Invisible crochet braids: This type of crochet braid is created using a crochet hook to sew the hair extensions into your own hair. Invisible crochet braids are more difficult to install than latch hook crochet braids, but they result in a more natural-looking finish.
Choosing the Right Style for Your Face Shape
The best crochet braid style for you will depend on your face shape. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right style:
- Round face: If you have a round face, choose a crochet braid style that will help to elongate your face. This includes styles with long, loose curls or waves. Avoid styles that are too short or too tight, as these can make your face look even rounder.
- Oval face: If you have an oval face, you are lucky! Most crochet braid styles will look good on you. However, you may want to avoid styles that are too long or too heavy, as these can weigh your face down.
- Square face: If you have a square face, choose a crochet braid style that will help to soften your angles. This includes styles with soft curls or waves. Avoid styles that are too straight or too short, as these can make your face look even more square.
- Heart-shaped face: If you have a heart-shaped face, choose a crochet braid style that will help to widen your forehead and narrow your chin. This includes styles with bangs or layers. Avoid styles that are too long or too heavy, as these can make your chin look even more narrow.
Caring for Your Crochet Braids
To keep your crochet braids looking their best, it is important to care for them properly. Here are a few tips:
- Wash your braids regularly. You should wash your crochet braids every 1-2 weeks to remove dirt and product buildup. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for natural hair.
- Condition your braids regularly. Conditioning your braids will help to keep them soft and prevent them from becoming dry and brittle. Use a leave-in conditioner or a deep conditioner every week.
- Avoid heat styling. Heat styling can damage your crochet braids and cause them to break. If you must use heat styling tools, use them on a low setting and be sure to apply a heat protectant spray to your braids first.
- Protect your braids at night. Sleeping with a satin pillowcase or bonnet will help to prevent your braids from becoming tangled and matted.
- Get regular trims. Regular trims will help to remove any split ends and keep your braids looking healthy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when caring for your crochet braids:
- Washing your braids too often. Washing your braids too often can strip them of their natural oils and cause them to become dry and brittle.
- Not conditioning your braids regularly. Conditioning your braids is essential for keeping them soft and preventing them from becoming dry and brittle.
- Using heat styling tools on a high setting. Using heat styling tools on a high setting can damage your crochet braids and cause them to break.
- Sleeping without a satin pillowcase or bonnet. Sleeping without a satin pillowcase or bonnet can cause your braids to become tangled and matted.
- Not getting regular trims. Regular trims will help to remove any split ends and keep your braids looking healthy.
Conclusion
Crochet braids are a versatile and stylish protective style for black people’s hair. However, it is important to choose the right style for your face shape and to care for your braids properly to avoid damage. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your crochet braids looking their best for weeks.