If you're looking for a low-maintenance hairstyle that still looks great, braids are the perfect option. Not only do they keep your hair neat and tidy, but they also provide a great base for curling. But how long do braids take to curl? In this guide, we'll go over everything you need to know to achieve perfect curls with braids.
How to Curl Braids
Before we get into how long it takes to curl braids, let's go over the basic steps for achieving curls with braids. Here's what you'll need:
- Braids (either box braids or cornrows)
- Hair curlers or flexi rods
- Heat protectant spray
- Hair oil or serum
- Hair spray (optional)
Once you have all of your supplies, follow these steps to curl your braids:
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
Start by spritzing your hair with a heat protectant spray. This will help protect your hair from heat damage during the curling process. Then, apply a small amount of hair oil or serum to the ends of your braids to keep them smooth and hydrated.
Step 2: Apply the Curlers
Next, take your curlers or flexi rods and wrap a braid around each one. Make sure to wrap the braid tightly around the curler or rod for more defined curls. Repeat this process until all of your braids are wrapped around curlers or rods.
Step 3: Wait
Once all of your braids are wrapped, you'll need to wait for them to dry completely. This can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight, depending on how thick your braids are and how tight you want your curls to be.
Step 4: Remove the Curlers
Once your braids are completely dry, carefully remove the curlers or rods from each braid. Be sure to unravel the braids gently to avoid damaging your curls.
Step 5: Finish with Hair Spray (Optional)
If you want your curls to last longer, you can finish with a light mist of hair spray. This will help hold your curls in place and prevent them from falling out throughout the day.
How Long Do Braids Take to Curl?
So, how long do braids take to curl? As we mentioned earlier, it depends on how thick your braids are and how tight you want your curls to be. On average, it can take anywhere from 2-8 hours for braids to dry completely and form curls. If you want your curls to be tighter, you'll need to leave the curlers or rods in for longer.
Another factor to consider is the type of hair you have. If you have thick, coarse hair, it may take longer for your braids to dry and form curls. On the other hand, if you have fine, thin hair, your braids may dry faster and form curls more easily.
Tips for Curling Braids
If you're new to curling braids, here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect curls:
- Start with clean, dry hair
- Use a heat protectant spray to prevent heat damage
- Wrap your braids tightly around the curlers or rods for more defined curls
- Wait until your braids are completely dry before removing the curlers or rods
- Be gentle when removing the curlers or rods to avoid damaging your curls
- Finish with a light mist of hair spray to help hold your curls in place
FAQ
Can I curl my braids without heat?
Yes, you can curl your braids without heat using a method called "banding." To do this, you'll need to wrap your braids around small elastic bands and leave them in overnight. When you remove the bands in the morning, your braids should have formed curls.
How long do braids need to be to curl?
Your braids should be at least 4-6 inches long to curl. If your braids are shorter than this, it may be difficult to wrap them around curlers or rods.
Can I use a curling iron on my braids?
No, you should not use a curling iron on your braids. This can cause heat damage and breakage. Instead, use hair curlers or flexi rods to achieve curls.
Hair Care for Braids
Finally, it's important to take care of your hair when you have braids in. Here are a few tips to keep your hair healthy and looking great:
- Wash your hair regularly (every 1-2 weeks) to prevent buildup and maintain scalp health
- Avoid using heavy oils or products that can weigh down your braids
- Use a light oil or serum to keep your braids hydrated
- Avoid pulling or tugging on your braids, as this can cause breakage
- Wear a silk or satin scarf or bonnet at night to prevent frizz and maintain your curls
With these tips and tricks, you'll be able to achieve perfect curls with your braids in no time. Just remember to be patient and wait for your braids to dry completely before removing the curlers or rods. Happy styling!
