Get creative with braids

BOB, box, rope, French, twist, among others, are a few of the labels that come with braids. For a style that has lasted generations, staying strong in style, in and out of season, it is only expected that the one has all the important information possible, when it comes to styling with braids.

Makeover spoke with four hair stylists – Miss Oluwatobiloba Afolabi,  Mrs Ronke Adesanya, Miss Aminat Mukaila and Miss Peju Olalekan – who highlighted what to know when it comes to rocking braids.

Show off your creative side

With braids, there is so much you can do during and after making the hair – the most recent being Ankara braids, as done by music icon, Di’ja, in the accompanying picture. Whether you choose twist, box, or crochet, as your braid style, feel free to express yourself, be it in colour or styling. Keep in mind, however, that there is such a thing as too much, depending on the places you expect to wear the hair to.

Almost anything is possible

This is especially important to keep in mind when styling. However, if you choose to achieve a variety of styles as possible, first discuss with your stylist on the length and volume that will be appropriate for making into the choice styles you have in mind.

Washing

Depending on the style, one advantage of braids is that they last almost as long as you wish them to. To wash braids, first shampoo the braids, then add warm water, and gently knead through your locks. Wash twice to ensure you have adequately taken care of dandruff and sweat build-up, then rinse thoroughly. Do not brush or wash rigorously to avoid making the hair look older than it really is. If you see the need to, you can also use conditioner, while washing.

Drying

Depending on the style, volume and length, first towel dry, then use hand dryer or standing dryer for this to get the water out of the hair as soon as possible to prevent smell.

Oil properly

After drying, there is the tendency for the hair to lose moisture, so be generous when oiling the hair – however, not too generous, so you don’t end up making it too dirty, too soon. Even before washing, endeavour to use oil frequently on the hair to help it retain its sheen.