Hello Ladies! So how's your summer hair care routine going? If you have chosen to wear braid extensions then you are probably enjoying the break, I know I am! I've had my Crochet Braids in for exactly 8 weeks. I am very pleased with how well the braid hair has held up. I am still getting day one compliments! So I thought I would share some tips on how to get the most out of your Crochet Braid Protective style.
*For those who may not know what Crochet Braids are it is simply using a latch hook needle to attach braiding bulk hair to previously cornrowed hair. The first step mimics a sew in weave preparation. Just choose a braid pattern that suits your hair length. Also, I only use synthetic curly bulk braiding hair.
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| Installing the hair/latch hook needle used |
Step One: Find a cornrow pattern that you like Step two: use your latch hook needle to feed the bulk braiding hair under the cornrow and pull over. Secure with your choice of knotting techniques. This installation after braiding takes me about 4 hours. (You tube has countless tutorials showing you how to install crochet braids so check those out!)
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| A Fresh Install |
How I care for my Crochet Braids
By choosing synthetic curly hair, my style is pretty much set. I literally don't have to do anything to this hair to keep it curly. Also by choosing a tight curl pattern I get more life out of the style. In my experience, looser curl patterns tend to tangle and mat more. The tighter curls will frizz or get occasional knots on the ends(similar to our natural hair). If I get a knot or too much frizz I simply snip it out.
What I use on the hair: Water, S-curl no drip, or African Royale BRX Braid spray
I use water from my spray bottle in the mornings to break the hair up. I wear my hair bound in a pineapple a night. Just like my real natural hair, this tightly curled hair clumps together. You can also break it up by simply shaking your hair.
I use the S-curl No drip moisturizer to hydrate my natural hair underneath. I separate the synthetic hair to expose my braids, spray liberally onto my braids and squeeze until I feel it's penetrating the braids.
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| exposing new growth and braid underneath.. |
S-curl no drip is primarily water, glycerin, and conditioner. The new formula also has some argon oil in it. It's very moisturizing and I like using it while I'm wearing braids because its light weight so there's very little build up if you use this. I have also noticed that it helps keep the synthetic hair soft and detangled and does not coat the hair. Its AWESOME! This has kept my hair looking like new for these 8 weeks.
African Pride BRX. If you use the S-curl no drip.this spray is totally optional it can be used to moisturize your natural braids underneath and it keeps the synthetic hair smelling great! I typically grab this after I've done an ACV rinse or just want to freshen my hair after a work out because it smell really good.
I conditioner-wash every 2 to 3 weeks..when preparing this hair for install I have it soaking in warm water, Apple cider vinegar, and conditioner so I know that I can cleanse my scalp & hair with these ingredients without harming the synthetic hair. (I would avoid using shampoo, it seems to be harsh on the hair.)
I typically will use an ACV rinse to scrub my scalp, and then follow up with a co-wash, rinsing it out in the shower. Co-washing these braids seems to bring them alive again!
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| Freshly Washed |
I also use an all natural oil mix to massage my scalp, and I can't forget my favorite The Follicle Mist by Hydratherma Naturals to keep my edges strong! And that's it. Its really easy to keep these braids looking great, while caring for your own hair.
Short re-cap! Keep the hair tied up at night, keep your hair and scalp nourished underneath,work out tangles and knots as needed with S-curl no drip moisturizer,Snip when needed, co-wash as needed, shake and Go! Done!
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| 8 Weeks.. and time to remove |
Until Next Time!!!
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