Are you looking for an admirably protective hairstyle for natural hair? If the answer is yes, the cornrow braid is an undisputed choice.
Cornrow braids are one of the most well-known Afro hairstyles, commonly known as a cane in the Caribbean. These raised braids date back to ancient Africa and are favored by modern stylists across the globe. We can’t wait to share this hairstyle with you!
What is the longevity of cornrow braids?
Indeed, the glorious lifespan of your cornrow braids isn’t just a happy accident; it’s a direct result of their volume and the sheer dedication you put into their maintenance.
Happily stretching anywhere from a rock-solid two weeks to an impressive, carefree two months!
#1 Side Swept Cornrows
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#2 Long Cornrow Braids
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And here’s the insider tip that every cornrow connoisseur knows: it’s an undeniable truth that the smaller, more intricately woven braids will win the endurance race against their larger, chunkier counterparts.
Those tiny, meticulously crafted braids are like little masterpieces that just refuse to quit, holding their pristine shape and staying gloriously neat for a significantly longer period.
This makes them not just a stunning fashion statement, but also a surprisingly fantastic, low-maintenance secret weapon for anyone looking for an extended period of dazzling, fuss-free hair perfection!
#3 Artistic Cornrow Braids
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What are some tips for maintaining cornrow braids?
Sleeping in a luxurious silk or satin hat is an absolute game-changer for extending the life of your braids, no matter the size!
It’s like giving your protective style its own silky, friction-free slumber party, preventing frizz and keeping everything neat.
And black hair specialist Sarah Sango’s wisdom is spot-on: if you’re rocking a protective style for weeks on end, keeping your scalp clean and hydrated is non-negotiable. It’s the secret sauce for comfort and healthy hair growth underneath those beautiful braids.
#4 Intricate Cornrow Design
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#5 Twisted Ponytail with Headwrap
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Beyond basic hydration, adding a diluted witch hazel mixture to your routine, applied with a specialized cotton pad, is a brilliant pro-tip!
This step is key for gently tackling any product buildup, soothing the scalp, and even absorbing excess moisture from the roots, ensuring your scalp stays happy and your braids look fantastic for their entire impressive lifespan.
#6 Patterned Cornrow Braids
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Should you dry your hair before braiding?
It’s fascinating how the belief persists that blow-drying your hair before braiding might help with length, perhaps by stretching it out.
However, most experts in the field actually recommend against drying your hair before braiding, often preferring to work with hair that has some natural moisture and elasticity to minimize tension and potential damage.
#7 Heart-Pattern Cornrows
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#8 Half Cornrows Half Bun
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But for those who still prefer or need to blow-dry, your advice is crucial: absolutely load up on conditioner beforehand!
It’s the best defense against the significant heat damage that can otherwise compromise your hair’s health and the longevity of your beautiful braids.
#9 Patterned Cornrows with Long Braid
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#10 Elegant Cornrow Updo
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Can cornrow braids promote hair growth?
Mahisha Dellinger, the brilliant mind behind CURLS, spills the tea on hair growth, declaring, “Protective styling is the ultimate secret weapon for growing out your hair!”
She’s talking about everything from those effortlessly chic buns to, of course, our beloved cornrows.
#11 Intricate Cornrow Design
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But she’s not just dropping style bombs; she’s giving us the golden rules for happy, healthy hair under wraps.
“No matter what fabulous style you pick,” she insists, “make sure it’s super gentle with minimal tension, let your scalp breathe like it’s on vacation, and for goodness sake, don’t overstay your welcome! Know when it’s time for a fresh look.” It’s basically a roadmap to gorgeous, thriving locks!
#12 V-Part Cornrows
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Why choose cornrow braids?
Cornrow braids truly are a style that delivers big time as the ideal low-maintenance protection for natural hair. It’s pure genius how those tight, meticulously woven braids act like a cozy, secure little fortress, keeping your precious strands in top condition by dramatically reducing breakage.
They give your hair a much-needed break from daily manipulation, allowing it to thrive.
#13 Large Feed-in Braids
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#14 Large Patterned Cornrow Braids
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And the best part? The versatility!
Whether you’re all about the sleek simplicity or you’re ready to dive into intricate, jaw-dropping patterns, there’s a cornrow style waiting to be your next obsession.
So, the real question is, which incredible design would you choose to rock this year? The possibilities are endless!