Braids have been a popular hairstyle for centuries, and for good reason. They're not only stylish but also low-maintenance and protective for your natural hair. Whether you're looking to try a new look or simply protect your hair from the elements, braids are a versatile option that can be worn year-round. From classic box braids to intricately braided updos, the styling possibilities are endless. But how do you make your braids last as long as possible? By using the right standards and techniques, you can ensure that your braids stay looking fabulous for weeks on end.

One key factor in making your braids last longer is choosing the right size and style for your hair. Different braid sizes offer different looks and benefits and selecting the right one can help prevent damage and prolong the lifespan of your braids. Additionally, proper care and maintenance are essential for keeping your braids looking their best. By following a few simple tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can enjoy your braids for weeks to come. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know to make your braids last longer, from selecting the right size and style to caring for your braids to prevent damage and breakage.

What Are The Different Types of Braids?

Braids are a perfect style for the season. However, creating the perfect look is a skill that takes time to perfect. With so many ways to rock your braids, each type has its own benefits, lifespan, and styling options. Knowing the different braid types can help determine how long you can expect your braids to hold up.

Some of the most popular braid types include box braids and cornrows. Within these styles are specific types that offer a unique look and can last anywhere from two weeks to several months. By incorporating extensions or adding beads and other accessories to your look, you can create an even more personalized braid style to sizzle all season long!

Box Braids

Box Braids are one of the most popular braid styles. They involve small sections of hair being tightly braided together and can last up to six weeks when properly cared for. There are many different subtypes of box braids, such as micro box braids, or thin braids, which can last even longer, at up to three months. This is because they have smaller parting, making them less prone to damage.

Bohemian box Braids involve larger sections than traditional box braids and often feature decorative beads or other accessories woven into the design. These usually take four to five hours to complete and typically last up to six weeks if properly cared for.

Trendy triangle braids can be a nice departure from classic box braids. This version trending on social media takes the style up a notch by creating triangle-shaped parts instead of traditional, square versions. These can last between four to six weeks with proper maintenance and upkeep. Adding curly, undone ends adds even more flair to the stylish design by incorporating elements of length and texture!

Finally, knotless braids are a newer type of braid that involves creating a knot-free root before beginning the braid pattern. This style is excellent for those with finer textures and looser curl patterns or scalps more prone to pain from tension, as it helps keep the hair from becoming damaged during styling. It also adds a more natural look at the base of the braid, which can extend its longevity. Knotless braids typically last between six to eight weeks, depending on how you wear them and how well you take care of them.

Cornrows

Cornrows are a traditional style of braids in which the hair is braided tightly to the scalp, using an overlapping upward motion to make a raised row of braided hair, similar to basic plaits adhered to the scalp. With proper upkeep, cornrows can easily last eight to ten weeks. Similar to box braids, there are many different variations of cornrows, each with its own unique flair.

Snake braids are rows of cornrows zigzagging in different directions across the scalp. These can be done in different widths and sizes, depending on your choice, and can last anywhere from six to eight weeks.

Goddess braids are another visually stunning cornrow style that’s been wildly popular on social media for the season. This look combines cornrows of different sizes, often in an intricate pattern, that looks like a work of art. Thin braids appear to take the place of traditional parts and sit adjacent to chunky braids. These braids can also last from six to eight weeks with proper maintenance.

Finally, Fulani braids are another popular style that involves weaving multiple strands of hair together in an intricate pattern, but pairs both cornrows and box braids into one style. A traditional goddess braid begins at the top of the head, continuing into bohemian box braids. This relieves the edges of your hair from excess tension and protecting them from breakage, while allowing versatility in the back. These usually last from four to six weeks, but with proper care, they can be kept in for up to eight weeks before needing a touch-up.

No matter what type of braid you choose, proper care is essential to ensure your style lasts as long as possible!

Tips To Keep Your Braids Lasting Longer

Caring for your braids properly is the key to getting the most out of your style. Here are some tips to help you make sure your braids stay in place and last as long as possible:

One of the most common mistakes people make is brushing their braids too often. This can lead to breakage and unraveling of the braids, causing them to come out sooner than expected. Instead of brushing daily, try using a wide-tooth comb once or twice a week to keep your scalp clean and nourished.

Using a lightweight oil or moisturizer can help keep your braids shiny and frizz-free. It also helps to prevent breakage and tangles, which is essential for maintaining the longevity of your style.

Sleeping without a headscarf or bonnet can lead to the unraveling of the braids, so it's crucial to secure your hair before bed. A silk or satin scarf or bonnet will help protect your braids from rubbing against your pillow and keep them looking fresh for longer.

Heat styling and frequent styling can cause damage to your braids, so it's important to limit the amount of heat and products used on them. Heat tools such as curling irons or flat irons should be avoided completely, as they can cause breakage and dryness.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your braids stay in place and last as long as possible.

How Often Should Braids Be Replaced?

It is recommended that braids be replaced every two to three months to prevent damage and breakage. If you have thinner hair, braids can last between six to eight weeks, with a touchup on the edges at the two-to-three-week mark. For thicker and coarser, braids can last between eight to ten weeks, with a touchup on the edges at about the three-to-four-week mark. If you want your braids to last longer, be sure to practice proper care by using light oils and moisturizers, avoiding over-styling or heat tools, and wearing protective hairstyles at night.

DIY or Professional: Which is Best?

Whether you choose to do your own braids or get them professionally done, each option has pros and cons.

In general, DIY braids tend to be less expensive, and you can choose the style that suits you best. However, if you’re not experienced in doing your own hair, it’s easy to make mistakes which can lead to breakage. And even when done correctly, DIY braids often don’t last as long as professionally done ones.

If you choose to have your braids professionally done, the stylist will be able to create a perfect pattern and ensure that your hair is free of knots or tangles. Professional stylists also use high-quality products and tools which can help your braids last longer. However, it’s essential to choose a reputable salon and stylist with experience in braided styles, as this will help ensure the style lasts.

Visit The Houston Braid Specialists at Feminine Attractions

Braids can be a great way to switch up your look and add texture to your hair. By understanding the different types of braids and their corresponding lifespans, you can choose the style that best suits your needs.

And when you work with a professional stylist and practice proper care, you can ensure that your braids last as long as possible.

To recap, here’s the best tips for keeping your braids lasting as long (and strong) as possible:

• Know the different types of braids and their lifespans is essential for determining how long they will last.
• Proper care, such as avoiding over-brushing, using light oils and moisturizers, and wearing protective hairstyles at night, can help increase your braids' lifespan.
• DIY or professional styling can be great options, but choosing a reputable stylist is essential when going the professional route.

If you're ready to take your braids to the next level, visit the Houston Braid Specialists at Feminine Attractions. Our experienced stylists will help you find the perfect style that fits your needs and lifestyle, so you can enjoy picture-perfect locks all day long!

Schedule a visit today to get started!