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15+ Different Types Of Braids Styles For Black Hair

Different Types Of Braids Styles For Black Hair

Key Takeaways

Different Types of Braids Styles for Black Hair: Traditional Braids

1. Box Braids

Box braid styles get their name from the box-shaped part at the root of each braid.
Box braid styles get their name from the box-shaped part at the root of each braid.

Box braids are a protective, low-maintenance hairstyle rooted in Black history. They are one of the many different types of braids styles for Black hair, offering versatile styling options, ranging from long and flowing styles to braided buns, ponytails, or half-up, half-down looks. Consult a professional braider for advice on plait thickness or adding extensions.

2. Cornrows

Cornrow braids
Cornrow braids

This versatile hairstyle suits short and long hair with thin braids close to the head. You can explore styles like lemonade braids, soft locs, knotless braids, goddess braids, and crochet braids using cornrows as a base. Regardless of your aesthetic, cornrows will keep your hair healthy and help you feel your best.

3. Senegalese Twists

Senegalese twists with a high bun
Senegalese twists with a high bun

Senegalese twists are a beautiful way to care for your hair and promote growth. To create them, attach human or synthetic hair to the root of your natural hair, separate it into two strands, and twist it down the hair shaft. The result is sleek twists that can be swept to the side or pinned back.

Protective Styles

1. Ghana Braids

Ghana braids are thicker, which is ideal for those with thicker hair.
Ghana braids are thicker, which is ideal for those with thicker hair.

These lovely braids are perfect for curly hair. As a type of cornrow, Ghana braids are one of the different types of braids styles for Black hair, requiring you to feed black hair extensions over the braid instead of beneath it. Popular styles include twisted Ghana braids, horizontal Ghana braids, and chevron Ghana braids.

2. Fulani Braids

Get creative with curls or vibrant beads to personalize this look.
Get creative with curls or vibrant beads to personalize this look.

Fulani braids feature a straight-back braid complemented by others flowing in opposite directions across the crown, often toward the ears or temples. It combines scalp-hugging cornrows on top with voluminous box braids at the back.

3. Marley Twists

Marley Twists offers a natural protective style with minimal maintenance.
Marley Twists offers a natural protective style with minimal maintenance.

Marley twists stand out from other twists because they specifically use Marley's hair. The curly texture of the braiding hair gives the hairstyle a locs-like appearance that offers both versatility and a unique look.

Different Types of Braids Styles for Black Hair:Trendy Braids

1. Feed-In Braids

You can expect to keep this style for up to 5 weeks with proper maintenance.
You can expect to keep this style for up to 5 weeks with proper maintenance.

Feed-in braids boast a rich history and have become one of today's most popular, chic, low-maintenance protective styles. As part of the different types of braids styles for Black hair and African American hair, this technique involves your braider seamlessly incorporating synthetic braiding hair into your natural hair, achieving the look of thicker braids or increased length.

2. Lemonade Braids

Slay with lemonade braids!
Slay with lemonade braids!

This style blends various braiding techniques to create a stunning look. Cornrow one side of your hair, allowing the rest to sweep over to the opposite side elegantly. Experiment with wheel patterns, wrap braids around your head and vary braid sizes to craft a detailed and captivating pattern.

3. Knotless Braids

Knotless braids are famous for their painless installation and wear, lightweight feel, and suitability for thin hair.
Knotless braids are famous for their painless installation and wear, lightweight feel, and suitability for thin hair.

Also known as feed-in braids, knotless braids differ from traditional styles by avoiding knots at the hair's base. During the braiding process, braiders gradually feed in hair, which reduces stress on natural hair and minimizes tension.

4. Spiraled Ends

Braids with spiral ends
Braids with spiral ends

Spiraled ends bring texture mixing to the forefront. They're like traditional box braids, adaptable in diameter from chunky to super thin, but with intentionally undone ends. Opt for hair with curls and a slightly kinkier finish to emphasize the contrast between the braided sections and the loose ends.

5. Braided Bob

Get a stunning look with a braided bob!
Get a stunning look with a braided bob!

Contrary to most other styles of braids for African American black hair, braided bobs typically extend to shoulder length. Opting for shorter braids reduces weight and offers versatility in styling. You can experiment with braids that feature fanned ends, loose curls, or unique partings.

Different Types of Braids Styles for Black Hair: Special Occasion Braids

1. Goddess Braids

Class goddess braids
Class goddess braids

Consider goddess braids for a glamorous, fresh look that doesn't require long-term installation. Braiders create these thick braids by closely braiding the hair near the scalp, resulting in a soft, flexible hairstyle that promotes hair growth.

2. Halo Braids

Halo braids hairstyle
Halo braids hairstyle

African halo braids differentiate themselves from traditional styles by incorporating thin cornrows at the center of your crown, which can feature straight or intricate patterns. Cornrowing extends outward from the crown, weaving the center braids into a chunky braid that encircles your head.

3. Crochet Braids

Especially popular in the 1990s, crochet braids are back in fashion.
Especially popular in the 1990s, crochet braids are back in fashion.

The last one on our list of types of braids for different black hairstyles is crochet braids. This style starts with braiding your natural hair into cornrows and then using a crochet hook to weave in crochet hair. It offers ample room for creativity, allowing for various styles, including curly variations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which braids can last for three months?

Protective braids such as cornrows and Ghana braids can last up to three months with proper care. During weaving, apply creams and oils to minimize scalp tension and discomfort caused by tight braiding.

What are the least damaging braids?

Knotless braids are the least damaging braids. They offer excellent style versatility without adding unnecessary stress to your scalp. Unlike traditional box braids with tiny knots at the scalp, knotless braids avoid these knots at the roots, reducing tension and minimizing the risk of hair breakage.

How often should I wash knotless braids?

For knotless braids, washing recommendations vary; some suggest every two to three weeks, while others extend it to four weeks. Washing your braids helps remove sweat, dirt, and product buildup, improves scalp health, prolongs your style, and reduces frizziness.

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