Having short hair means different things to different people. For some people (like me), having short hair necessitates sporting a tiny afro (a TWA for my curly friends). Some people consider ear and jaw-length bobs short hair.
Short hair also includes cropped haircuts like buzz cuts and pixie cuts. Whatever your idea of short hair is, it’s vital to remember that it’s really adaptable and can even be styled into short hair braid styles.
What’s not to love about braids? They are an extremely adorable, adaptable, and protective style that can preserve your delicate, silky strands from frequent handling. Short natural hair can be fashioned into braids and worn for any occasion.
Some sweet designs are appropriate for prom or graduation ceremonies, as well as various looks that you can wear beneath your cap. Switching to short hair braids is an easy solution to prevent heat damage to your hair if you’ve been using curling wands and flat irons too frequently.
Source: unknown
How Short Is Too Short For Braids?
Depending on the length of your natural hair, you can choose which braided hairstyle to wear with short hair.
Braids are a beautiful and versatile way to express your style, even with a shorter cut. However, getting the best results often comes down to timing and technique.
Source: unknown
According to Janelle Sands, licensed hairstylist and CURLS Senior Director of ECommerce & Digital, even though some of the best and most skilled braiders can grab and stitch styles together with only a couple of inches, she advises waiting until your hair is between 1.5 and 2 inches long.
This is the perfect length to ensure your braids are secure, comfortable, and last as long as possible. Attempting to braid hair that is too short can lead to braids that unravel quickly or cause unnecessary tension and discomfort on your scalp.
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Once your hair reaches the optimal length, the options for braids are endless. You can go for classic cornrows that hug your head in beautiful patterns, or try smaller box braids that look incredibly chic.
With the right length and a skilled braider, you can get a beautifully crafted, long-lasting braided hairstyle that makes you feel incredibly confident and chic.
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Braid tension has been linked to traction alopecia, severe breakage, and narrow hairlines, which is why it is so important to prioritize the health of your hair when getting a braided hairstyle.
When braids are between Sands’ recommended lengths, they will have more leverage to maintain the style rather than relying on the strength of the tension applied to their hair.
This prevents the hair from being pulled too tightly and protects the delicate hair follicles.
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Maya Smith, Licensed Cosmetologist and Founder/ CEO of The Doux, confirms this. She advises a minimum of four inches for braided styles with extensions.
A skilled braider will ensure your style is secure without putting undue stress on your scalp.
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
By following this expert advice, you can get a beautiful, long-lasting braided hairstyle that makes you feel incredibly confident and chic, all while keeping your hair healthy and strong.
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
When It’s Time To Remove Braids, What Should I Do?
Before washing, Smith advises applying a pre-shampoo to aid detangling.
This crucial first step will help loosen any buildup and knots that have formed while your hair was in braids, making the detangling process much easier and preventing breakage. This product works to soften your hair, preparing it for a gentle and thorough cleanse.
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Following this, Sands advises using a conventional conditioner and a deep conditioning treatment.
The conventional conditioner helps to cleanse and detangle, while the deep conditioning treatment provides a much-needed boost of hydration and nutrients.
This will help to replenish any lost moisture, leaving your hair feeling incredibly soft, healthy, and revitalized.
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Now that you are well-versed in everything there is to know about short hair braids, it’s time to choose your favorite one and head to the hair salon!
With this knowledge, you can feel confident that your hair will be both stylish and healthy.
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Source: unknown
Source: MISSYSUE
Source: unknown
Source: unknown