Cornrows are a classic hairstyle that has been popular for generations. They’re not only stylish, but they’re also a practical way to manage and protect your hair. However, maintaining cornrows can be a challenge, as they can easily come undone or lose their shape over time. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips and tricks to help make your cornrows last longer.
- Start with clean hair
Before braiding your hair into cornrows, it’s important to start with clean, moisturized hair. This will help to prevent your hair from becoming dry and brittle, which can cause the cornrows to unravel. Use a gentle sulfate-free shampoo and a deep conditioning treatment to help nourish and strengthen your hair before braiding.
- Use the right products
Using the right products can help to keep your cornrows looking fresh for longer. Try using a lightweight, non-greasy oil like jojoba or grapeseed oil to keep your scalp moisturized and your hair soft. You can also use a leave-in conditioner or a styling gel to help keep the cornrows in place.
- Don’t wash too often
While it’s important to start with clean hair, washing your hair too often can cause the cornrows to loosen and unravel. Try to limit your hair washing to once every two weeks, and use a dry shampoo in between washes to keep your hair fresh and clean.
- Wear a silk scarf or bonnet at night
Wearing a silk scarf or bonnet at night can help to protect your cornrows and prevent them from becoming frizzy or undone. Silk is a gentle fabric that won’t pull or tug on your hair, and it can help to maintain the shape of your cornrows while you sleep.
- Avoid excessive sweating
Sweat can cause the cornrows to become frizzy and undone. Try to avoid excessive sweating by wearing a scarf or hat when exercising, and avoid activities that cause you to sweat heavily.
- Touch up your cornrows
As your hair grows, your cornrows may start to look messy or uneven. To keep them looking fresh, you can touch up your cornrows by using a crochet hook or a latch hook to pull the loose hair back into the cornrows. Be gentle and avoid pulling or tugging on your hair, as this can cause breakage.
- Take down your cornrows properly
When it’s time to take down your cornrows, it’s important to do it properly to avoid damaging your hair. Start by removing any clips or elastics that are holding the cornrows in place. Then, gently unravel the cornrows, being careful not to pull or tug on your hair. Use a detangling spray or conditioner to help soften your hair and make it easier to remove any knots or tangles.
In conclusion, cornrows are a beautiful and practical hairstyle that can be worn for weeks with the right care and maintenance. By following these tips and tricks, you can help to make your cornrows last longer and keep them looking fresh and stylish.