Braiding is a hairstyle option that has been around for centuries and has recently gained popularity among men. While braids are often associated with longer hair lengths, they can still be achieved with shorter haircuts. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the steps required to braid really short hair for men.
Prepping Your Hair
Before you start braiding, it is essential to ensure that your hair is clean and dry. Here are some tips to help you prepare your hair:
- Shampoo: Wash your hair thoroughly with a suitable shampoo to get rid of any dirt, oil, or styling products.
- Condition: Apply a conditioner to help moisturize and soften your hair, making it easier to work with.
- Dry: Use a towel to pat your hair dry, then allow it to air dry completely before attempting to braid.
Sectioning Your Hair
Once your hair is dry, it’s time to section it into equal parts. Here’s how:
- Divide: Use a comb to divide your hair into three equal sections – left, right, and center.
- Secure: Clip each section in place using hair clips to keep them separate while you braid.
- Prepare: Using a brush, smooth out each section of hair to remove any tangles, knots, or flyaways, and prepare it for braiding.
The Basic Braid
A basic braid is an excellent starting point for those new to braiding. Here are the steps to create a basic braid:
- Cross: Take the right section of hair and cross it over the center section, so it becomes the new center section.
- Cross Again: Take the left section of hair and cross it over the center section, so it becomes the new center section.
- Repeat: Continue these steps until you have braided to the end of your hair.
- Secure: Use a small elastic band or hair tie to secure the end of the braid.
Advanced Braiding Techniques
Once you have mastered the basic braid, you can experiment with advanced braiding techniques. Here are some popular options:
- French Braid: A French braid is similar to a regular braid but involves adding hair from each side as you move down the braid. This creates a more complex look.
- Dutch Braid: A Dutch braid is created by crossing the outside sections underneath the middle section instead of over it like in a regular braid. This technique creates a raised, three-dimensional effect.
- Fishtail Braid: A fishtail braid involves taking small sections of hair from the outside edges and crossing them over to the opposite side. This creates a textured, almost woven look.
Styling Your Braids
Once you have braided your hair, there are several ways to style it. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Hairspray: Use a light hairspray to hold your braids in place and prevent flyaways.
- Gel: Apply a small amount of gel to the ends of your braids to help keep them together and looking sleek.
- Accessories: Consider adding accessories like beads, rings, or bands to your braids to give them a unique touch.
Maintenance
To keep your braids looking fresh and tidy, there are a few things you should do:
- Wash: Wash your hair at least once a week to remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup.
- Moisturize: Apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair to keep it moisturized and prevent breakage.
- Trim: Regularly trim the ends of your braids to keep them looking neat and prevent split ends.
Conclusion: Braiding really short hair for men is a fun and stylish way to switch up your hairstyle. With these simple steps, you can achieve a variety of braids that suit your personality and style. Remember to prep your hair, section it properly, master the basic braid, experiment with advanced techniques, style your braids, and maintain them regularly to keep them looking fresh and stylish.
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