Crochet Braids Frequently Asked Questions
Basic Concept
The idea behind crochet braids is usually pretty simple. Braiding or weaving long segments of hair can take a lot of time, particularly for thick ethnic hair. The look of multiple tiny braids is often really desirable, though; among other things, the style can reduce frizz and lead to a very polished and tidy look with basically no effort, at least not on a day-to-day basis. People with shorter hair may also want to experiment with longer locks, whether semi-permanently or for a special event. These sorts of extensions allow for maximum flexibility, since they’re far easier to attach then more permanent options. In most cases they cost less, too.
How They’re Attached
Braids are often sold in packets, often organized by style and color. Some popular braid styles include twist braids, French braids, and cornrow braids. People interested in these products usually start by arranging the hair they have into one of these styles. Then, using a crochet hook, they attach the braids to the end of the natural hair, with the goal of creating a continuous strand. This process is where the style gets its name. The extensions aren't actually crocheted, but the hook is an instrumental part of getting them attached to a person's natural hair.
Many salons and hair studios specialize in this look, and stylists can often give personalized advice to clients when it comes to product differences and length considerations. In some places it’s also common for groups of people, usually women, to get together and braid each others’ hair, often in the setting of a party or other casual get-together. The braids can usually be attached individually, too, but this is often the most difficult route. It’s usually a challenge to work precisely on the back of one’s own head, and even with a number of mirrors the arms tend to grow tired well before the project is done.
Different Looks and Effects
There are two main effects women commonly use these braids to achieve. Color is one; many braids are designed to match a person’s natural hair color, but choosing something in a complementary shade or mixing and matching can be an easy way to give the appearance of highlights or other more intensive color treatments. Unnatural colors like pink and green can sometimes also be incorporated. The look in these cases is akin to a dye job, but with far less permanency.
Length, of course, is also an important consideration. Very long braids can be woven in and then cut to the desired length, or used to temporarily lengthen hair that is otherwise short.
Upkeep and Maintenance
Crochet braids are a popular choice not only because they can help create a quick, fashionable hairstyle, but also because they're a low-cost and low-maintenance way to change a hairstyle. Once the braids are woven in, daily hair-care requirements are typically greatly reduced. They don’t need to be washed regularly, and don’t usually require any special treatments like oils, either.
What’s more, these types of braids don't usually cost much, particularly when compared to some of the other popular extension options. They don't require hair glue, caps or any of the other things that extensions sometimes require. The result is a style that is very easy on the scalp. People who have a sensitive scalp or who want to give their scalp a rest from more intense hairstyles may use these braids for awhile for that reason.
I have a relaxer, can I wear crochet braids?
Yes! Crochet Braids, like any other protective hairstyle (weave or individual braids), requires braiding of your natural hair whether it's permed or not. However, you should consider the condition of your natural hair before you install any long term protective style and make the best decision based off the current state of your natural hair. Relaxing your hair can render it weak. Putting braids on top of fresh perm or hair in a weakened state can cause serious damage to your hair. I recommend two weeks after a perm before getting any long term protective style.
Will I have visible parts in my head?
No! My specific crochet pattern consist of knotless perimeter to give you an invisible part as well as versatility.
How long will my crochet braid style last?
Crochet braid hairstyles last between 4 to 8 weeks or longer depending on the intricacies of your braid pattern, quality of hair installed, and your maintenance routine. Since crochet braids are a long term protective style, be mindful that your natural hair needs care as well. Leaving your hair braided longer that 8 weeks can increase breakage of your natural hair.
I want crochet braids, but I don't know what style to get?
There are a variety of styles you can wear with crochet braids. Some people get overwhelmed with the selection of bulk hair options used to create a crochet braid hairstyle. If you've never had crochet braids before I recommend you do a little research online to see what other crochet braid hairstyles are most appealing to you. You Can check out our gallery to get an idea of what is it your interested in or what catches your eye. This approach may relieve some of the anxiety created from trying to choose a crochet braid hairstyle that best fits your features and personality. Start off with something simple and easy to get you started on your crochet hair journey , you can find inspiration from any of the the styles I've created. You can also explore other hairstyle inspirations to create a crochet braid look for you. After you've had your installation of crochet braids installed you will become much more comfortable playing with different crochet braid styling options.
Can braiding hair be added to the cornrows?
Yes! Depending on the length and texture of your hair, especially with clients who have thin hair . Using braiding hair helps but less stress on their edges and can also help from them
loosening.
What kind of hair do I need for crochet braids?
For the braid pattern aspect of crochet braids you will need synthetic braiding hair you can get this from any beauty supply store for no more than $5 . For actual crochet there are many different types of hair you can get depending on the style you choose. For kinky and curly hair a few suggestions brands would be (noir,african collection, freetress,bantu , etc ...) Then for pretwisted and pre braided hair some brands would be ( best afri, Senegalese, bantu, freetress, nor).
How many packs of hair will I need for a crochet braid hairstyle?
There are a few variables that determine how much hair you will need to purchase for an installation of crochet braids such as style, length, volume, and bulk hair choice. During your consultation we will discuss how much hair to purchase based on your style choice. Usually is no more than 5-8 packs
How do I maintain my crochet braids?
Wear a satin scarf or bonnet to bed each night to keep hair looking fresh. Treat synthetic or human hair with a conditioning spray that's water down for human/synthetic hair to prevent tangling, dryness, and frizzing.
How do I remove my crochet braids?
We have two options 1: The easiest way to remove crochet braids is to cut them down close the base of the cornrows, but above where the knot is tied. Be careful not to cut the natural hair in your cornrow base. Saturate your hair with an oil of your choice (jojoba, olive oil, etc) to aid in slippage and reduce breakage of natural hair. Leave the oil in your hair for at least 30 minutes or longer so it penetrates the braiding hair and your natural hair. Unravel your cornrows, the remaining braiding hair should slip out.
Option 2: We have a $25 installation removal fee which involves removing the crochet install and the braids then comb it out.