One popular option that has gained momentum in recent years is the mini braids hairstyle. We all familiar with protective styles and their ability to save us time and give our hair a break from daily styling. Mini twists have grown in popularity on social media and especially on tiktok to be the ultimate long term protective style. And what about mini braids? Not only look stunning but also offer a wide choice of styling opportunities. In this article, we will give you their benefits, styling tips, and how to care for your natural hair in this protective style.
Whether you’re a beginner or a braiding expert, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everythinig you need to know to style mini braids on your natural hair.
This protective hairstyle on natural hair have plenty of benefits that will support your hair’s growth and length retention journey.
What are the benefits of mini braids on natural hair?
Low Maintenance: They require very minimal upkeep compared to your daily low bun or high puff natural hairstyle.
Versatility: It’s an incredibly versatile hairstyle. You can wear them loose, half-up, in a bun, or even try creative updos. These braids offer a range of styles and allow you to explore what suits you best.
Protective Styling: Of course, the main advantage is that they are a great protective style. They help protect your natural hair from harsh weather conditions, friction, and manipulation.
Hair Growth: They can promote hair growth by minimizing breakage and allowing your hair to rest and grow without constant manipulation.
How long do mini braids on natural hair last?
Once you have styled your natural hair in mini braids, this hairstyle can last from 5 to 6 weeks. However, the longevity of this style will depend on your hair type. Mini braids can be prone to lock together making it challenging to remove and detangle. Monitor your hair’s condition and take them down if you notice a lot of frizz and tangled roots.
If you want to enjoy their benefits, the install process is key in order to make sure your natural hair will reap the benefits of this hairstyle.
Styling Tips for Mini Braids on Natural Hair:
Prep Time: Make sure you start styling your hair shortly after your wash day when your hair has been cleaned, conditioned, and properly detangled before braiding. This will ensure a smoother braiding process and prevent unnecessary stress on your strands.
Braiding Technique: Section your hair carefully to ensure each braid is evenly sized, this technique will give you a more appealing hairstyle. As you braid, maintain consistent tension on your braid pattern. This will result in neat and uniform hairstyle.
Products: Use your favorite styling cream while braiding each braid, your braids will have a uniform shine and be thoroughly moisturized. Also use a mousse once the styling is complete to get rid of any flyaways. Even though mini braids are low maintenance, don’t forget to moisturize your scalp and hair regularly. Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your natural hair nourished.
Caring for mini braids will prevent you to damage your hair and keep this hairstyle as long as desired.
How do you sleep with braids?
Protect your braids while you sleep by wrapping them in a satin or silk scarf or using a satin pillowcase. A bonnet also works as it will reduce friction and helps maintain the longevity of your style.
Can I wash mini braids?
Keep your scalp and natural hair clean by using a clarifying shampoo to prevent product buildup. Focus on your roots to clean your scalp and gently apply shampoo on your braids as well. You can apply leave in conditioner and oil on your braids to keep your hair moisturized. If your braids start to look a bit frizzy, you can moisturize them with a mixture of water and a leave-in conditioner and re braid some of your mini braids.
When it’s time to take down your mini braids, be patient and gentle to ease the process and minimize hair breakage.
Do small braids damage hair?
Mini braids can damage your natural hair only if you keep the hairstyle for too long. Mini braids kept for longer then 6 weeks can risk to tangle and lock your natural hair. Continue to take care of your hair with a consistent haircare routine for your hair stay clean and moisturized.
Mini braids on natural hair offer a fantastic way to protect your natural hair while embracing the beauty of your natural texture. With their versatility, protective benefits, and relatively low maintenance, mini braids can be the change of your hairstyle you need. Remember to prepare your hair properly, and care for your braids to maintain healthy natural hair.
