The Ultimate Braiding Hair Guide

A simple, easy-to-follow guide from Royal Roots Beauty Supply LLC you can use for yourself, clients, or even to post/share 💇🏽‍♀️✨ Learn everything you need to know about braiding hair, from types and quantities to aftercare and common mistakes. Let's get started!

Hair Types Used for Braiding

Choosing the right hair type is crucial for achieving your desired braiding style. Here's a breakdown of the most common options:

  • Synthetic (Kanekalon): Most common, affordable, and lightweight.
  • Pre-stretched Kanekalon: Saves time and offers a more natural finish.
  • Jumbo Braiding Hair: Thicker strands, ideal for knotless or larger braids.
  • Marley Hair: Coarse texture, great for faux locs and twists.
  • Crochet Hair: Pre-looped styles for quick and easy installs.

How many packs do you need?

Estimating the right amount of braiding hair can be tricky. This table provides a general guideline:

Note: Head size and braid thickness can influence the final amount needed.

Recommended Lengths

The ideal length depends on your desired style and look:

  • 18”: Shoulder length
  • 22”: Mid-back (most popular)
  • 26”: Waist length
  • 30”+: Extra long / statement styles

Best Brands

When it comes to quality and reliability, these brands are highly recommended:

  • X-Pressions
  • Outre
  • Janet Collection
  • Sensationnel
  • RastAfri

Prep Before Braiding

Proper preparation is key for healthy and long-lasting braids:

  • Wash & deep condition your natural hair.
  • Blow-dry or stretch your hair on low heat.
  • Moisturize your scalp.
  • Part your hair cleanly and evenly.

During the Braid

Pay attention to these details while braiding:

  • Use edge control or braid gel for neat parts.
  • Don’t braid too tightly (protect your edges).
  • Feed hair evenly for a natural look.

Aftercare Tips

Maintain your braids with these simple tips:

  • Oil your scalp 2–3 times weekly.
  • Wear a satin bonnet or scarf nightly.
  • Use braid spray for moisture.
  • Avoid heavy products.

How Long Styles Last

Here's a general guideline for how long different braiding styles typically last:

  • Cornrows: 2–4 weeks
  • Box braids: 4–6 weeks
  • Knotless braids: 6–8 weeks
  • Faux locs: 6–8 weeks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Steer clear of these common pitfalls:

  • ❌ Too much hair per braid
  • ❌ Tight braiding at the hairline
  • ❌ Skipping moisture
  • ❌ Leaving styles in too long