Step 1: Know Your Weave
Choosing the right hair for braiding starts with understanding the different types of weaves available. Each weave has its own unique texture, feel, and styling options. Here are the four most popular weaves for braiding:
- Remy Human Hair: Remy hair is the highest quality human hair available. It is collected from a single donor and all the cuticles are aligned in the same direction, resulting in tangle-free, silky smooth hair.
- Non-Remy Human Hair: Non-Remy hair is collected from multiple donors and the cuticles are not aligned, making it more prone to tangling and shedding. However, it is still a good option for braiding if you are on a budget.
- Synthetic Hair: Synthetic hair is made from artificial fibers and is the most affordable option. It is not as versatile as human hair and can be difficult to style, but it is a great choice for temporary braids.
- Blends: Blends are a mix of human hair and synthetic fibers. They offer a good balance of quality and affordability, making them a popular choice for everyday braiding.
Step 2: Consider Your Hair Texture
The texture of your natural hair should also be taken into consideration when choosing human hair for braiding. Here’s how to match your hair texture to the right weave:
- Fine Hair: Fine hair requires a weave that is lightweight and easy to braid. Remy human hair or a human hair blend are good options.
- Medium Hair: Medium hair can handle a wider range of weaves, but Remy human hair or a high-quality blend is still recommended.
- Thick Hair: Thick hair can handle thicker weaves, such as non-Remy human hair or a synthetic blend.
Step 3: Determine the Length and Thickness
The length and thickness of your braids will depend on your personal style and the occasion. For everyday braids, a length of 12-18 inches is usually sufficient. For special occasions, you may want to go for longer braids, up to 30 inches or more. As for thickness, you can choose from various pack sizes, typically ranging from 100 to 400 grams.
- Mayvenn Hair: Mayvenn Hair is a leading brand known for its high-quality human hair extensions and weaves. Their braiding hair is made from 100% Remy human hair and is available in a wide range of textures, lengths, and colors.
- Bellami Hair: Bellami Hair is another popular brand that offers a variety of human hair extensions, including braiding hair. Their braiding hair is made from high-quality Remy human hair and is available in a wide range of colors and lengths.
- Nadula Natural Hair: Nadula Natural Hair is a brand that specializes in human hair extensions and weaves for women of color. Their braiding hair is made from 100% Remy human hair and is available in a variety of textures, lengths, and colors.
- Indique Hair: Indique Hair is a premium hair extension brand known for its luxurious human hair extensions. Their braiding hair is made from 100% Remy human hair and is available in a wide range of textures and lengths.
- Halo Extensions: Halo Extensions is a brand that offers a unique hair extension system that is easy to install and remove. Their braiding hair is made from 100% Remy human hair and is available in various lengths and colors.
To achieve beautiful, long-lasting braids with human hair, follow these expert tips:
- Prepare your hair: Wash and deep condition your natural hair before braiding to remove any buildup and make it more manageable.
- Section your hair: Divide your hair into small sections to make braiding easier.
- Apply braiding cream or gel: Use a braiding cream or gel to help keep your hair in place and prevent frizz.
- Start from the root: Start braiding at the root of your hair and work your way down to the ends.
- Tighten the braids: Make sure to tighten the braids securely to keep them in place.
- Seal the ends: Dip the ends of your braids in hot water or use a hair sealer to prevent them from unraveling.
- Protect your braids at night: Wear a silk or satin bonnet to protect your braids from friction and tangling while you sleep.
- Take care of your braids: Wash your braids regularly with a sulfate-free shampoo and condition them deeply to keep them healthy and hydrated.
If you encounter any problems while braiding with human hair, here are some tips to help you troubleshoot:
- Tangled hair: If your hair is getting tangled while braiding, try using a detangling brush or spray. You can also apply a leave-in conditioner to help smooth the hair.
- Loose braids: If your braids are coming loose, try tightening them more securely. You can also use hairspray to help keep them in place.
- Frizz: If your braids are frizzy, try using a braiding cream or gel to help control flyaways. You can also apply a hair oil or serum to help smooth the hair.
Conclusion
Choosing the right human hair for braiding is essential for achieving beautiful, long-lasting braids. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can find the perfect hair for your unique needs and create stunning braids that will turn heads.