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How To Make Cornrows Last Longer?

How To Make Cornrows Last Longer?

Cornrows are a chic, low-maintenance, and protective braiding style that can be done with or without hair extensions. It's been a popular hairstyle for a long time and is still in style today. Here in this post, we're going to share some tips and tricks on how to keep your cornrows fresh and make them last longer. 

Firstly, let's start at the very basics: what exactly are cornrows and how to properly braid your hair into cornrows. 
how to cornrow

What are cornrows?

Cornrows are a traditional African hairstyle in which the hair is braided tightly to the scalp in a series of straight lines or patterns. The braids are created by taking small sections of hair and braiding them very close to the scalp so that the braids lie flat against the head. Cornrows can be worn in a variety of styles, from simple straight rows to more intricate patterns and designs. They are often worn as a protective style to help prevent hair breakage and promote healthy hair growth. Cornrows have a long history in African culture and have also become popular in other parts of the world, particularly among Black communities.

How long do cornrows last?

Cornrows can last for up to six weeks with proper maintenance and care. However, it depends on the individual's hair type, the size and tightness of the braids, and the daily activities they engage in. It's recommended to avoid overexposure to water, oil the scalp regularly, and use a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase to preserve the style.

How to cornrow for beginners?

Here is a basic guideline on how to cornrow:

Step 1: Clean and moisturize your hair: Detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb and wash your hair with a mild shampoo. Use conditioner to moisturize your hair and pat it dry with a soft towel. Massage a small amount of light oil or leave-in conditioner to conceal moisture in your hair.

Step 2: Divide your hair into rows: Use a rat-tail comb to divide your hair into rows from the hairline toward the nape of your back and secure the small rows with elastic bands individually. Be noted that the thickness of the sections will depend on the size of the cornrows you desire.

Step 3: Braid your hair: Undo a small row of hair. Start by dividing the sections into three parts from the forehead toward the back. The middle section should be the smallest, and the other two sections should be equal in size.

Begin braiding by taking the right section and crossing it over the middle section. Then, take the left section and cross it over the middle section. Keep alternating sides and adding small sections of hair to each section as you braid.

If you desire to feed in hair extensions to achieve thick cornrow styles, add a small amount of hair extension from each side to the braid. As you braid, make sure that the extension hair is completely incorporated into the natural hair for a more natural look.

Braid down to the end of the hair and secure the braid with an elastic band.

Step 4: Repeat braiding hair: Repeat the braiding process with the next section of hair, making sure that the braids are even in size and spacing.

Continue braiding until all of the hair is braided into cornrows.

Step 5: Finish and moisture: For a neat finish, apply a light gel or edge control to the edges of the hair. Or you can also rub a small amount of light oil or leave-in conditioner to add shine and lock in any flyaways. 

The whole cornrow process takes some time but it's a chic, versatile, and protective hairstyle that is worth trying. 
cornrow ponytail

How to take care of cornrows?

Here are some tips and tricks to care for your cornrows and prolong their duration:

  1. Proper preparation: Before braiding your hair, clean and detangle your hair to minimize tangles and remove flakes. Ensure that your braids are neat and clean so that they can last longer.
  2. Use high-quality hair extensions: If you desire to add hair extensions to your cornrows, opt for hair extensions that are made of 100% cuticle-aligned human hair. This will ensure that your cornrows are less likely to unravel or fall apart so that they can last longer.
  3. Moisturize regularly: It is critical to keep your hair hydrated to prevent breakage and to make your cornrows last longer. Thus, it's recommended to apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner or light oil to add extra moisture to your braids. By the way, never neglect your scalp while moisturizing. Use a leave-in conditioner or light oil to moisturize the exposed scalp that is between the cornrows, and gently rub it into your braids and scalp regularly. 
  4. Wash the cornrows only if needed: Avoid shampooing your cornrows too frequently. Wash your cornrows no more than every 7-10 days. Dry shampoo is a smart alternative during this time. 
  5. Wash your cornrows gently: Mix a sulfate-free shampoo with warm water in a spray bottle, wet your hair with the mixture, and gently massage your scalp and braids with your finger pads. Rinse thoroughly to remove residues. Condition your braids and allow the conditioner to sit for a while and then rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water again. Pat your braids with a soft towel and blow dry them on the lowest heat setting.
  6. Avoid over-tightening: Ensure that your braids are not too tight, as this can cause pain and damage to your scalp and hair. Furthermore, it can make your cornrows come undone quickly.
  7. Protect your braids at night: Wear a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to protect your cornrows while sleeping. Or you can invest in a silk pillowcase to minimize frizz and prevent any flyaways.
  8. Avoid too much heat: Try to avoid excessive heat styling, as this can cause damage to your hair and make your cornrows unravel.
  9. Avoid over-manipulating: Try to avoid touching your cornrows too much, as this can cause frizz and make them come undone.
  10. Take off the braids in time: Never keep cornrows on your head for more than six weeks. Even with proper maintenance, if you leave your cornrows any longer than six months, they may not lay neat and your scalp may feel an itch. By the way, it's also highly recommended to give your natural hair a break before the next cornrowing. 
  11. Visit a professional stylist: If you want your cornrows to last longer, consider visiting a professional stylist who can ensure that your braids are done correctly and will last longer.

Cornrows are a low-maintenance hairstyle that can last for several weeks. This makes them an excellent option for people who don't have a lot of time to spend on their hair. Furthermore, cornrows are a protective hairstyle that can help prevent hair breakage and damage. The tips and tricks in this post should help you prolong the life of your beautiful cornrow styles.

 

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