Braids are a timeless hairstyle that can be worn by people of all ages and hair types. They are versatile and can be styled in a variety of ways, from simple and elegant to intricate and glamorous. However, one of the challenges of braiding hair is that it can be difficult to add additional hair to the braid to create a fuller or longer look. This is especially true if you have fine or thin hair.
Fortunately, there are a few different techniques that you can use to add hair to braids without it looking bulky or unnatural. One popular method is to use hair extensions. Hair extensions are available in a variety of lengths, colors, and textures, so you can find ones that match your own hair perfectly. To add hair extensions to a braid, simply braid your hair as usual and then clip the extensions into the braid at the desired location.
Another option for adding hair to braids is to use yarn or thread. This is a less expensive option than hair extensions, but it can be more difficult to blend the yarn or thread with your natural hair. To add yarn or thread to a braid, simply braid your hair as usual and then wrap the yarn or thread around the braid as you go. You can use any color or texture of yarn or thread that you like, so you can create a variety of different looks.
Selecting and Preparing the Hair Extensions
Choosing the right hair extensions is crucial for a natural and seamless integration with your braids. Here’s a detailed guide to help you select and prepare the extensions:
Quality of Hair Extensions
The quality of the hair extensions will significantly impact the overall look and longevity of your braids. Opt for premium-quality Remy hair extensions made from 100% human hair. Remy hair undergoes a meticulous selection process, ensuring that the hair cuticles are intact and aligned, resulting in hair that feels soft, tangle-free, and blends seamlessly with your natural hair.
Texture and Color Matching
Matching the texture and color of the hair extensions to your own hair is essential for an undetectable blend. Consider whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair and choose extensions that closely resemble your natural texture. Similarly, match the color of the extensions to your current hair tone. If you’re unsure of the perfect match, consult a hair professional for their expertise.
Length and Volume
The length and volume of the hair extensions you need will depend on the desired thickness and length of your braids. Measure your natural hair from root to tip to determine the desired length. For volume, consider the number of braids you want and the thickness you prefer. If you’re aiming for thicker braids, opt for more or wider extensions.
To prepare the hair extensions, gently brush them with a wide-toothed comb to remove any tangles. This will help prevent breakage and keep the extensions looking neat and tidy. If necessary, wash the extensions with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for hair extensions.
| Hair Type | Texture | Cuticle Layer |
|---|---|---|
| Remy Hair | Smooth, Tangle-Free | Intact and Aligned |
| Synthetic Hair | Stiff, Plastic-Like | Disrupted or Nonexistent |
Braiding the Base: Foundation for Hair Addition
To create a sturdy foundation for adding hair to your braids, start by braiding the base hair into two even sections. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Divide the Hair: Part your hair down the middle into two equal halves.
- Start Braiding: Begin braiding the right section of hair by taking a small strand from the front, crossing it over the middle strand, and then pulling it under the back strand. Repeat this process, alternating between the front and middle strands.
- Secure the Braid: Once you reach the end of the section, secure the braid with an elastic band.
- Repeat for the Left Section: Follow the same steps to braid the left section of hair, starting on the opposite side.
Incorporating Hair into the Braids
Once the base braids are complete, you can start adding hair extensions. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose Matching Hair: Select hair extensions that match the color, texture, and length of your natural hair.
- Divide the Extensions: Separate the hair extensions into smaller bundles of 1-2 inches wide.
- Attach to Base Braid: Take a bundle of extensions and fold it in half. Place the folded end under the base braid and pull the two ends through the loop, forming a knot.
- Incorporate into the Braid: Continue braiding the base braid, incorporating the extensions into each step. Hold the extensions taut to ensure a secure attachment.
- Repeat Until Finished: Repeat the attachment process for the remaining hair extensions until you’ve reached the end of the braid.
| Braiding Base | Incorporating Extensions |
|---|---|
| Begin with two even sections of hair. | Use extensions that match your natural hair. |
| Start braiding from the front to the back. | Fold the extensions in half and attach under the braid. |
| Alternate between front and middle strands. | Incorporate extensions into each step of the braid. |
| Secure with an elastic band at the end. | Repeat the process until the braid is complete. |
Attaching Hair Extensions to Braids: Secure Techniques
3. Cornrows and Invisible Hair Extensions
Cornrows are a foundational braiding style that allows for the seamless integration of invisible hair extensions. This technique involves braiding small, tight rows close to the scalp, starting from the front and working backward.
When attaching extensions to cornrows, follow these steps:
-
Create the cornrow: Braid a small section of hair into a cornrow, leaving the end loose.
-
Open the cornrow: Using a crochet hook or yarn needle, gently open the last loop of the cornrow by pushing it upward.
-
Insert the extension: Thread the hook or needle through the open loop and grab a small bundle of the hair extension. Pull the extension through the loop.
-
Secure the extension: Allow the extension to fall into place and then braid over it to close the cornrow. Ensure the extension is secure and undetectable.
-
Continue braiding: Repeat the process for each cornrow, adding extensions as desired.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Seamless and natural-looking | Time-consuming |
| Can add significant length and volume | Requires skill and practice |
By following these steps carefully, you can achieve a flawless and long-lasting application of hair extensions to cornrows.
Blending Extensions: Seamless Integration
Incorporating extensions into your braids requires meticulous attention to detail to achieve a natural, cohesive look. Here are some tips to ensure seamless blending:
1. Choose a Matching Shade: Select synthetic or human hair extensions that closely match the color, texture, and curl pattern of your natural hair. This will create a more uniform and harmonious appearance when braided.
2. Prep and Section: Before braiding, thoroughly brush your natural hair and section it into small, even sections. This will help distribute the extensions evenly and prevent any tangles.
3. Secure the Extensions: Use a technique that keeps the extensions securely attached to your natural hair. Braid the extensions into your hair, wrap them around hair strands, or use hair glue. Choose a method that suits your hair texture and desired look.
4. Maintain and Style: Once the braids are complete, take care to maintain their integrity. Regularly wash and condition your hair, using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to preserve the extensions. Additionally, avoid using excessive heat when styling, as this can damage both your natural hair and the extensions.
| Maintenance Tips | Styling Tips |
|---|---|
| – Regular washing and conditioning | – Avoid excessive heat |
| – Sulfate-free products | – Gentle brushing |
| – Avoid overbrushing | – Use heat protectant products |
Maintaining the Braids: Proper Care for Longevity
5. Washing and Conditioning
Regular washing and conditioning are crucial for maintaining healthy and long-lasting braids. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure proper care:
Washing Braids
- Use lukewarm water, as hot water can damage the hair and braids.
- Apply a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to the roots and gently massage to remove dirt and buildup.
- Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the braids, as this can cause them to frizz or loosen.
- Rinse the braids thoroughly with lukewarm water until all shampoo residue is removed.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner to the braids to moisturize and detangle them.
Conditioning Braids
| Weekly Conditioning | Monthly Conditioning |
|---|---|
| Use a deep conditioner designed for braided hair. | Apply a nourishing hair mask to strengthen and protect the hair. |
| Leave the conditioner in for 15-30 minutes. | Leave the mask on overnight for maximum absorption. |
| Rinse the conditioner thoroughly with lukewarm water. | Rinse the mask thoroughly with lukewarm water and apply a light leave-in conditioner. |
Styling Options: Unleashing Creativity
Adding Hair of Different Textures
Incorporate hair extensions that complement your natural texture to create seamless blends. For instance, if you have fine hair, consider using silkier extensions to enhance volume. Conversely, if your hair is thick and coarse, synthetic extensions provide a fuller, dramatic appearance.
Mixing Colors for a Vibrant Twist
Experiment with different hair colors to add depth and dimension to your braids. Mixing synthetic hair with your natural hair allows for endless color combinations. Highlight a few braids with contrasting hues or create an ombre effect by gradually transitioning from one color to another.
Adorning Braids with Accessories
Accessorize your braids with beads, ribbons, or feathers to elevate their style. Beads can add a touch of elegance or playfulness, while ribbons provide a feminine and delicate flair. Feathers create a bohemian or ethereal vibe, making them perfect for festivals or special occasions.
Integrating Metallic Accents
Incorporate metallic threads or hair wraps to add a touch of shimmer and glam to your braids. Gold, silver, or bronze accents can create a sophisticated and eye-catching effect. Use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the braids or weighing them down.
Experimenting with Braid Patterns
Don’t limit yourself to classic braid styles. Explore intricate patterns like fishtails, Dutch braids, or cornrows. Combining different braid techniques can create unique and visually interesting looks that stand out from the crowd.
Table: Braid Pattern Options
| Braid Pattern | Description |
|---|---|
| Traditional Braid | Three strands of hair woven together |
| Fishtail Braid | Two strands of hair alternately picked up from the sides |
| Dutch Braid | French braid but the strands are pulled up and over, creating a raised effect |
| Cornrows | Small, tight braids created by braiding hair close to the scalp |
| Waterfall Braid | A braid where the outer strand is dropped and a new strand is added from the opposite side |
Enhancing Thickness: Volume and Length Transformation
Add Synthetic Hair Extensions
Synthetic extensions come in a range of textures, colors, and lengths, allowing you to customize your look. Attach them to the base of your braids using a braiding thread or extension clips.
Incorporate Human Hair Weaves
Human hair weaves provide a more natural and durable option. They can be braided into the extensions or sewn onto the scalp. Choose hair that matches your natural texture and color for a blended look.
Use Jumbo Braiding Hair
Jumbo braiding hair is significantly thicker than regular braiding hair, creating a voluminous and dense look. It’s perfect for feed-in braids and box braids.
Add Hair Threads
Hair threads are thin strands of synthetic or human hair that can be wrapped around the braids. They add subtle volume and length, enhancing the overall appearance of your braids.
Create Box Braids with Extensions
Box braids made with extensions offer an easy way to add length and thickness. The extensions are attached to the natural hair before braiding, resulting in longer and fuller braids.
Use Big Braids
Braiding your hair into larger sections creates a more voluminous look. Experiment with different braiding techniques such as Dutch braids or French braids to add extra fullness.
Incorporate Crochet Braids
Crochet braids involve wrapping synthetic hair extensions around a latch hook and attaching them to your natural hair. This technique creates tight, defined braids that can be customized to achieve your desired thickness and length.
| Braiding Technique | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Synthetic Extensions | Versatile, affordable, wide range of colors/textures |
| Human Hair Weaves | Natural look, durable, customizable |
| Jumbo Braiding Hair | Exceptional volume, dense look, ideal for feed-in/box braids |
| Hair Threads | Subtle enhancement, adds length and volume without overwhelming braids |
| Box Braids with Extensions | Easy to achieve length and thickness, versatile styling options |
| Big Braids | Instantly volumizing, creates a bold and statement-making look |
| Crochet Braids | Tight and defined braids, endless customization options, durable and protective |
Color Correction: Matching and Enhancing Hues
Color correction is the process of altering the color of your hair to match or enhance your natural hue. This can be done through a variety of techniques, including:
–
Toning:
Applying a semi-permanent color that adds shine and enhances the natural color of your hair
–
Glazing:
Depositing a sheer layer of color over the hair to neutralize unwanted tones or add subtle highlights
–
Highlighting:
Lightening select strands of hair to create depth and dimension
–
Lowlighting:
Darkening select strands of hair to add contrast and depth
–
Color melting:
Blending two or more colors together to create a seamless transition from one shade to another
–
Balayage:
Hand-painting color onto the hair to create natural-looking highlights
–
Ombre:
Gradually fading one color into another, creating a blended effect
–
Root touch-up:
Refreshing the color of your roots to match the rest of your hair, covering gray or faded areas
Avoiding Damage: Precautionary Measures
When adding hair to braids, it’s crucial to take precautions to minimize hair damage. Here are some preventive measures:
1. Choose Synthetic or Human Hair
Natural hair can be easily damaged if not properly cared for. Synthetic or human hair extensions are less susceptible to breakage and tangling.
2. Use High-Quality Braiding Hair
Low-quality hair may break easily, leading to tangles and snags. Invest in good-quality extensions to ensure longevity and minimize damage.
3. Select the Right Tension
Braids that are too tight can put excessive stress on your hair, causing breakage. Adjust the tension of the braids to a comfortable level.
4. Use Hair Oils and Conditioners
Apply hair oils or conditioners to extensions and natural hair before braiding to prevent dryness and reduce friction.
5. Braid Regularly
Regular braiding helps to distribute weight evenly, reducing stress on individual hair strands and minimizing breakage.
6. Use a Wide-Tooth Comb
Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle synthetic or human hair extensions, avoiding excessive pulling.
7. Tie Hair Up at Night
Protect your braids at night by tying them up in a silk or satin scarf or cap. This reduces friction and minimizes tangles.
8. Avoid Heat Styling
High temperatures from heat styling tools can damage both natural hair and extensions. Limit the use of heat on your braids.
9. Deep Condition and Moisturize
Deep conditioning and moisturizing treatments can replenish moisture and nutrients in your hair, reducing breakage. Consider the following:
| Treatment | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Deep Conditioning Mask | Every 2-3 weeks |
| Leave-In Conditioner | Daily |
| Moisturizing Hair Spray | As needed |
Salon Tips: Professional Guidance for Perfect Braids
Step 1: Choose the Right Hair Type
Opt for 100% human hair extensions that match your own hair texture and color.
Step 2: Determine the Braiding Method
Discuss different braiding techniques with your stylist, such as box braids, cornrows, or twist braids.
Step 3: Prepare Your Hair
Wash and moisturize your hair to create a smooth base for braiding.
Step 4: Divide Your Hair
Section your hair into smaller sections to make braiding easier.
Step 5: Start Braiding
Begin braiding from the root, using small sections of your hair and extensions.
Step 6: Secure the Ends
Tie off the ends of the braids with rubber bands or hair clips.
Step 7: Adjust the Tension
Maintain even tension throughout the braiding process to avoid too-tight or too-loose braids.
Step 8: Keep the Braids Moisturized
Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep the braids hydrated and prevent breakage.
Step 9: Detangle Regularly
Use a wide-tooth comb to gently remove any tangles that may occur.
Step 10: Extend the Lifespan of Your Braids
| Tip | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Wash braids less frequently | Reduces water damage and preserves style |
| Use diluted shampoo and conditioner | Gently cleanses without stripping the hair |
| Avoid products with alcohol | Prevents drying and breakage |
| Sleep with a satin cap or scarf | Protects braids from friction and tangles |
| Trim split ends | Prevents further damage and keeps braids looking healthy |
How to Add Hair to Braids
Adding hair to braids is a great way to add length, volume, or color to your hair. Braiding your hair can be a great way to style your hair, but if you’re looking for some extra volume or length in your braid, you can always add in some additional hair. You can do this by adding synthetic hair or human hair extensions. Braiding hair can be a versatile hairstyle that looks good on all ages, hair textures, and different face shapes.
To add hair to braids, you will need hair extensions, a hairbrush and comb, a mirror, scissors, bobby pins, and a hair tie or elastic band.
To begin, you will need to braid your hair. You can braid your hair in any style you like. Once your hair is braided, you will need to separate the hair extension into three sections. Separate the hair extensions into three equal sections and attach the hair extension to the braid by tying the extension onto the end of the braid.
Once the hair extension is attached, you will need to braid the hair extension into your own hair. Braid the hair extension into the braid by crossing the left section over the middle section, then the right section over the middle section. Next, braid the hair extension into the braid by crossing the left section over the middle section, then the right section over the middle section. Once the hair extension is braided into your hair, you can secure the braid with a hair tie or elastic band.
You can now style your hair as desired. If you want to add curls or waves to your hair, you can use a curling iron or wand. You can also use hairspray to help keep your hair in place.
People Also Ask
How long does it take to braid hair with added hair?
The time required to braid hair with added hair varies based on the length and thickness of your hair, the number of braids you’re creating, and the type of hair extensions you’re using.
Can I braid my own hair with added hair?
Yes, you can braid your own hair with added hair. Make sure you have enough hair extensions to complete the braids.
How much does it cost to add hair to braids?
The cost of adding hair to braids varies depending on the type of hair extensions used, the length and thickness of the hair extensions, and the salon you visit.
