But the question remains — which brand of hair should you buy? We asked some hairstylists which ones they prefer, and for a few tips on how best to work with them, whether you're headed to the salon or you plan on braiding your hair yourself. Every time you wear any braided or twisted style, you're giving your hair and scalp a break from combing, brushing and heat styling. Even the best hair dryer can cause potential damage—so your hair is likely to recover and grow more healthily during this time.

Tribal braids are all about combining different techniques and braid sizes to create unique patterns and styles. These types of braids have their roots in the tribes of Africa. Traditionally, hair braiding styles were used as a way to express an individual’s heritage and status. Today, they can also be about showing off your personal style. Los Angeles-based braider Asia Monae favors Rastafri hair for her braiding sessions. "It doesn't tangle, comes in a variety of colors, and even comes pre-stretched, which is perfect for feed-in and box braids." Pre-stretched hair, by the way, is feathered out at the ends, which keeps the braids from unraveling and tapering as you install them. "When the hair isn't pre-stretched, you waste time and sometimes some of the actual hair trying to stretch it." As great as long braided hairstyles are, and as fabulous as they look, there's a limit to the duration you should have them in for before you cause damage to your hair. Celebrity hairstylist and co-owner of My Hair Bar Salon, Lorraine Dublin suggests keeping braids in for no longer than eight weeks, and then breaking for a month or two before installing them again.

Unique Ends

Your personal style and fashion preferences should also guide your choice of braiding hair color. Are you aiming for a natural and subtle look, or do you prefer bold and vibrant shades that make a statement? Understanding your style will help you narrow down the options and find a color that truly reflects your personality. This will give your scalp a chance to rest from all that extra weight and avoid the risk of tension alopecia, baldness, or hair thinning at the scalp. It's also wise to adopt a scalp care regimen when you have protective styles like braids or twists to prevent dryness, itchiness, or flaking. How to clean long braided hairstyles Fulani braids are the signature type of braids of the Fula people in West Africa. The style involves braiding thin to medium plaits in rows along the sides of the head while leaving a central twist at the crown. The central braid is then decorated with accessories – beads and rings are traditional, but hair cuffs are a chic option. Place the braided hair and accessories strategically to maximize your face shape. Fulani braids can also be combined with other braided hairstyles to make a statement. This neutral, yet cool shade of blonde is a fun variation of platinum blonde, infused with metallic, pearlescent hues. In fact, many glamorous celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Kim Kardashian, and just about everyone at the Playboy mansion have had platinum blonde hair at one point. There is just something about it that says sexy and high-class.

Braid color can make a significant difference in your overall look. It can enhance your features, create visual interest, and reflect your personal style. While braid color is a matter of personal preference, it’s important to consider factors such as skin tone, eye color, and the desired impact you wish to achieve. Flattering Hair Colors for Dark SkinIntricate cornrows add a point of difference to any long micro braids style. This technique gives the look a half up half down hairstyles effect, which helps show off your eyes and cheekbones.