Micro braids, also known as tiny braids, have been and will continue to be a popular hairstyle choice for many women. However, after years of sporting this hairstyle, I have finally reached my limits with micro braids — but maybe a short break!
If I were to take a wild guess, I would say that I’ve probably dedicated at least a week’s worth of my life to sitting in a braiding chair. Imagine spending four to eight grueling hours in a chair, three or four times a year, for an entire decade. That was my reality until I discovered the aesthetics of micro braids. I was in no way prepared for the marathon 15-hour session it took to create my micro braids.
For those who may not be familiar, micro braids are these incredibly tiny braids that resemble thick strands of hair. What sets these braids apart from other protective styles, like box braids or faux locs, is their lightness.
This lightness allows you to style the braids as if they were your natural hair. You can curl them with a curling iron, braid them into a different style, or even style them into buns and ponytails. It’s like having the best of both worlds – the protective benefits of braids and the versatility of natural hair.
The allure of these braids, which I first spotted on Instagram, was irresistible. I had been toying with the idea of getting long, voluminous box braids, but the thought of the discomfort that typically accompanies braiding kept me at bay. Then, I stumbled upon these braids that seemed to sprout directly from the scalp, looked incredibly lightweight, and offered a myriad of styling options. The cost was steep, understandably so considering the hours it took to create them—significantly more than traditional braids. Regardless, my curiosity was piqued.
Next stop? YouTube, of course! After watching several styling videos and tutorials, I was inspired and found myself at the salon that very weekend, ready to recreate the look. Little did I know that crafting this micro braid style would span over two days and approximately 15 hours. But what else could I expect? I had opted to use weaves, aiming for considerable length.
Throughout the process, I found myself incessantly touching my hair, counting the strands, and silently pleading for the ordeal to end. Sitting for so long was a literal pain. It was almost enough to dissuade me from ever considering microbraids again.
Despite the ordeal, I was genuinely pleased with the outcome. The braids looked authentic, felt lighter than my usual styles, and somehow made me feel more like myself. To protect my edges, I had asked my stylist to keep it slightly loose at the front, having heard some hair-raising stories. This is something you might want to consider as well.
The reality is that any hairstyle, protective or chemically induced, can wreak havoc on your hair if not properly maintained. I’ve had my fair share of unpleasant encounters with big box braids and even knotless braids, which made me initially wary of braiding. Moreover, if you have thin strands or pre-existing hair issues, it’s my belief that this style might not be the best fit for you. There are other protective styles, like cornrows, that could serve as alternatives.
One aspect of micro braids that I appreciate is their flexibility in terms of duration. You can keep them anywhere from a day to eight weeks, which is precisely what I did. I sported the braids for two months, during which I experimented with various styles and truly enjoyed the experience. It felt as though I had nothing on my head weighing me down. The braids were incredibly lightweight.
I was tempted to keep the braids for another couple of months, but it wasn’t advisable. If you’re considering extending the duration beyond eight weeks, I’d recommend scheduling a consultation with your hairstylist. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe to leave your strands in the micro braids for a bit longer or if it’s time for them to be removed.
Another thing I admire about micro braids is their low-maintenance nature. As mentioned before, it’s crucial to ensure that the braids aren’t done too tightly, as this could lead to severe headaches and potential hair breakage. Plus, you want to be able to move your face comfortably after leaving the salon.
Just treat these braids like you would your natural hair. You can and should wash your hair while it’s braided. To keep your hair looking luscious and feeling moisturized, gently shampoo it once a week, followed by a hydrating conditioner focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
If you decide to keep your micro braids in for more than a few weeks, it’s a good idea to clarify your scalp and braids biweekly. Start with a scalp treatment before moving on to shampooing. Consider swapping out your regular shampoo for a clarifying formula.
After washing and conditioning your hair, ensure it’s completely dry before you start styling. If you’ve added extra hair to your style, use a blow dryer or a hooded dryer to make sure your locks are thoroughly dry. Leaving your braids damp (especially near the scalp) could lead to the development of dandruff, fungus, or even mildew. If your scalp feels dry or irritated between washes, a soothing scalp lotion can be a lifesaver.
If you thought the installation of micro-braids was a time-consuming process, wait until you have to remove them. It felt like an eternity, with the strain in my neck becoming more and more apparent as time went on. The sense of relief I felt when I was finally done was indescribable.
Would I consider getting these braids again? Perhaps, yes!
However, despite the long hours spent installing and removing my microbraids, I believe it was time well spent. The hairstyle offers a level of versatility that is hard to find in other braid styles. Microbraids can be styled and treated just like your natural hair, they can last for a significant amount of time, and they are incredibly lightweight. This makes them a great choice for those seeking a change in their hairstyle.
Photo: Instagram.com/marykbella
