A Guide to Using and Wearing Crochet Braids

• 06 Oct 2020
• Posted By : 2
• 0 Comment

Also referred to as latch hook braids, crochet braids have recently resurfaced with more and more people wanting to sport the hairstyle. One reason behind this is that crochet braids resemble natural-looking curl and hair patterns. Note that these braids are usually constructed from synthetic hair extensions attached to your natural hair by looping the extensions through them or braiding them into cornrows.

The fact that crochet braids are highly versatile is one reason why many prefer it. However, before you decide to wear this style, it is necessary to collect information about crochet braids. That way, you will not end up not knowing what to do once you begin sporting it or during the actual installation process.

Length of Time Needed During the Installation

One advantage of crochet braids is that they are quicker to install compared to box braids that often take around 6 to 8 hours. Crochet braids can be installed within just one and a half to three hours. You can have it done in a salon. Another advantage of crochet braids as far as installation is concerned is that you can purchase individual braids in just one pack. It is a huge time-saver.

If you prefer shoulder-length hair with cornrows at the back and individual crochet braids in front, then expect the whole process to be completed within just two hours. If you plan to go longer than that, then you may need to spend around three hours or so in the salon, which is still shorter compared to the number of hours of installation required for other hairstyles.

Type of Hair Required for Crochet Braids

Many also love to wear crochet braids because it is inexpensive. It is cheaper than other hairstyles as it does not require the use of human hair. In fact, it is possible to use the synthetic hair offered in several beauty supply shops in your locality both online and offline.

Also, some say that crochet braids seem to look better when synthetic hair is used. It is because human hair has less slippage than synthetic hair, a look that may not be suitable if you are after crochet braiding. If you use the synthetic hair for this hairstyle for a longer period, then expect it to look more bohemian, too, which is actually a good thing.

The reason is that this look can morph into a messy yet cool texture that looks modern and chic. While human hair is capable of producing the same effect, you can’t still expect it to last longer than synthetic.

Since synthetic hair is the ideal choice for crochet braiding, it is necessary to determine the specific amount of hair needed to achieve your preferred look. Note that how much hair you  need will depend on the actual look you plan to sport. In most cases, though, you will need to use around 4 to 8 packs of synthetic hair.

If you want the style to be extremely long (probably knee-length), then it will most likely require around 10 packs of synthetic hair. That would be enough to get the volume, body, and length you prefer.

Some Useful Tips for Beginners

If you are one of those who want to wear crochet braids and you know that you are still a beginner in this particular hairstyle, then make sure that you keep in mind the following tips to guarantee great results:

• Take advantage of pre-curled hair – Regardless if you decide to use wavy braiding hair or pre-curled synthetic hair, this tip can contribute a lot to making your crochet braid look natural once you start wearing it. It is because it lessens the stress on the hair. Aside from that, pre-curled hair can guarantee that your crochet braid will bring out a more uniform and neater look.
• Expose some cornrows – You can also rock your crochet braids by leaving some of your cornrows exposed. Others may focus on ensuring that the cornrows will not expose the fact that they are wearing crochets, but note that leaving some of them deliberately is actually a good thing.

For instance, you may want to use the half-head cornrow look or cornrow headband sported by Alicia Keys a few years back. This hairstyle looks great, so there is really no harm in exposing some of your cornrows.

• Use the right hair from a high-quality brand – Keep in mind that not all brands offering crochet braids are created equal. It is the reason why you have to be extremely cautious when selecting the hair extension for your crochet braid. You may want to avoid those brands with hair that are more prone to tangles and more difficult to handle and work on compared to the others.

Remember that even if many consider crochet braids as an easy hairstyle to do on their own, the entire process will still be tricky if you pick the wrong hair from a brand with products of subpar quality. It is because it might lead you to use hair extensions that are quite bothersome to style and even detangle.

• Consider your braid pattern – Another thing to remember when planning to wear and use crochet braids is that your braid pattern is extremely important in the process. You have to consider the manner through which you intend your hair to fall.

In case you are sporting a side part, for example, it would be best to ensure that the braid pattern swoops to the side. That way, it will frame your face depending on how you prefer it.

• Protect your crochet braid at night – Note that you can expect your crochet braid to last longer if you do something to protect it every night. A wise tip is to wrap or cover your hair with a satin or silk bonnet before finally sleeping at night. This tip is crucial in lessening friction during your sleep. It also helps in retaining your hair’s moisture.

Aside from the mentioned tips, you also have to do something to make it last longer and prevent it from drying out. If you feel like your hair is dry, then spritz a bit of shine-enhancing or moisturizing spray. It can help add life and moisture to your crochet braids, thereby boosting your confidence every time you wear the style.