If you have short hair, you might think that cornrows are not possible. But, with the right technique and some patience, you can achieve a beautiful cornrow hairstyle that will turn heads. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to do cornrows with short hair. We will also provide you with tips, FAQs, and hair care advice to help you achieve the perfect look.
Table of Contents
- How to do Cornrows with Short Hair
- Step-by-Step Guide
- Tips for Cornrowing Short Hair
- FAQs
- Hair Care for Cornrows
How to do Cornrows with Short Hair
Cornrows are a popular hairstyle that involves braiding the hair in a series of small, tight braids. The braids are typically arranged in a straight or curved pattern, and can be worn in a variety of styles. If you have short hair, you might think that cornrows are not possible. However, with the right technique, you can create cornrows that are both stylish and functional.
What You Will Need
Before you begin, make sure that you have the following items:
- Wide-tooth comb
- Rat-tail comb
- Butterfly clips or hair ties
- Styling gel or pomade
- Hair extensions (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to create cornrows with short hair:
Step 1: Wash and Condition Your Hair
Start by washing and conditioning your hair. This will help to remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup that may be on your scalp and hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair, and rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Using a rat-tail comb, section your hair into small, equal-sized parts. Use butterfly clips or hair ties to secure the sections of hair that you are not working on. This will help you to keep your hair organized and prevent tangles.
Step 3: Apply Styling Gel or Pomade
Apply some styling gel or pomade to each section of hair. This will help to smooth your hair and make it easier to braid. Make sure that you apply enough product to coat each strand of hair, but not so much that your hair becomes greasy or weighed down.
Step 4: Braid Your Hair
Starting at the front of your head, take a small section of hair and divide it into three equal strands. Begin braiding the hair by crossing the right strand over the middle strand, and then the left strand over the middle strand. As you braid, add a small section of hair from the section next to it to the strand you are crossing over. Continue braiding until you reach the end of the section of hair, and then secure the braid with a small hair tie or a bobby pin. Repeat this process for each section of hair until your entire head is braided.
Step 5: Optional - Add Hair Extensions
If you want to add length or volume to your hair, you can use hair extensions. Simply braid the hair extensions into your natural hair as you would with your own hair. Make sure that the extensions are securely attached to your hair to prevent them from falling out.
Step 6: Style Your Cornrows
Once you have finished braiding your hair, you can style your cornrows in a variety of ways. You can wear them straight back, in a zigzag pattern, or even in a bun or ponytail. Use your imagination to create a unique and stylish look that reflects your personality.
Tips for Cornrowing Short Hair
Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect cornrow hairstyle:
- Use a rat-tail comb to make small, equal-sized sections of hair. This will help you to create neat and uniform cornrows.
- Apply styling gel or pomade liberally to each section of hair. This will help to smooth your hair and make it easier to braid.
- Braid your hair tightly to prevent your cornrows from unraveling. However, be careful not to braid too tightly, as this can cause discomfort and even hair loss.
- Use hair extensions if you want to add length or volume to your hair. Make sure that the extensions are securely attached to your hair to prevent them from falling out.
- Experiment with different cornrow styles to find the one that works best for you. You can wear your cornrows straight back, in a zigzag pattern, or even in a bun or ponytail.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about cornrowing short hair:
Can I do cornrows with relaxed hair?
Yes, it is possible to do cornrows with relaxed hair. However, you should be careful not to braid your hair too tightly, as this can cause breakage and damage to your hair.
How long does it take to do cornrows with short hair?
The amount of time it takes to do cornrows with short hair can vary depending on the length and thickness of your hair. However, on average, it can take anywhere from 1-3 hours to complete the process.
How long do cornrows last?
Cornrows can last anywhere from 2-8 weeks, depending on how well you take care of them. To make your cornrows last longer, avoid pulling or tugging on them, and sleep with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to prevent frizzing and tangling.
Hair Care for Cornrows
Here are some tips for taking care of your hair when you have cornrows:
- Moisturize your scalp regularly with a light oil or hair spray. This will help to prevent dryness and itching.
- Avoid using heavy hair products or oils, as these can weigh down your hair and cause buildup.
- Wash your hair gently and infrequently to prevent your cornrows from unraveling. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and lukewarm water to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils.
- Avoid exposing your hair to excessive heat or sunlight, as this can cause damage and dryness.
- When it's time to take out your cornrows, be gentle and patient. Use a rat-tail comb to gently unravel each braid, and then wash and condition your hair thoroughly to remove any dirt or buildup.
Now that you know how to do cornrows with short hair, it's time to try it out for yourself. With a little practice and patience, you can achieve a beautiful and stylish cornrow hairstyle that will turn heads wherever you go.
