Afro braids: tips, tutorials and beautiful photos to inspire you

Originally from African cultures, the Afro braid was much more than an adornment for the hair. The hairstyle could identify one’s social position or even reveal one’s readiness for marriage.

Over the generations, braiding has become a tradition, since this is how older women took the opportunity to transmit their knowledge and wisdom to younger ones.

For this reason, the hairstyle, today so well known for its personality and style, is above all a symbol of the identity, roots and beauty of the black woman.

Afro braids can come in countless variations in color, size, thickness and stitches, and the best way to decide between them when thinking about getting the hairstyle is to look for inspiration in a gallery full of Instagram queens who already sport their own. Check out:

5 tips for those who want to do afro braids

Hairstylist and braid specialist Ainá Garcia, from the carioca studio Casa da Madame Garcia Afro Urban Hair, explains that the most common type of braid is the box braid. Its popularity comes from the ease of application on different types of hair, but they have greater durability and beauty in curly hair. Check out other tips from the professional for those who want to venture into the wonderful world of braids:

1. Afro braids are made in small equal strands that are braided together with a fiber, providing durability, thickness, length and even color to the braids.
2. Depending on your hair type and procedure adopted, braids take 4 to 9 hours to complete, so save an afternoon and take your time.
3. Braids can be washed with shampoo and conditioner as usual, but if your hair is not very frizzy, go for a 2 in 1 shampoo.
4. Braids can stay up to 2 months in the hair, but avoid staying longer than that so as not to damage them.
5. To avoid frizz in your braids, sleep with a cap, scarf, or even tights on your head to protect your hairstyle.

It is important to emphasize the historical identification that the Afro braid has with the black woman and her roots, being a hairstyle that has much more to do with cultural property than style, which makes it more suitable for those of African ethnicity.

6 tutorials to make afro braids today

Braids can be a little heavy depending on their size, thickness and especially the fiber chosen. Wool is the lightest option and also the most discreet, however the champions of choice, especially for women, are kanecalon and jumbo, which in addition to being lighter, also offer the most varied and fun color options. Here are the ideal tips and ideas for those who want to adopt afro braids today:

1. Afro braids with Negra Rosa

In this video Rosa talks about the difference between kanecalon and jumbo and also suggests the best way to prepare synthetic hair for braiding. See some tips on how to get your hair ready to receive the braids and follow the youtuber doing a demonstration of how to braid your hair.

2. Braiding for the first time with Brenda Lima

This video is ideal for those who want to braid their hair at home but don’t really know how. Brenda lets herself be accompanied on her first time braiding her hair and shows that with patience and care it is possible to achieve a beautiful result.

3. Nagô braids with Tati Cabelos Afros

Nagô is one of the darlings in the Afro braid. In this video, follow the braiding process with the professional Tati Cabelos Afro and see how one of the freshest and most stylish hairstyles with Afro braids is made.

4. Braiding with synthetic hair by Menina do Afro

In this very well explained video, the Portuguese from the A Menina do Afro channel teaches you how to make braids with synthetic hair without tying knots and helps you achieve a uniform and more natural result.

5. Wool braids with Luci Ramos

Wool braids are the lightest option and also preferred by those who prefer to avoid a very shiny effect, which is common when braids are made with synthetic materials. In this video, Luci shows in a very nice way how to get braids at home and in a few hours.

6- Rastafarian Braids with Khalita with K

The beautiful Khalita shows you how to make Rastafarian braids at home and in a very detailed way, perfect to put an end to doubts once and for all. See the movements, some ideas and learn about her technique for preparing synthetic hair and braiding it with your natural hair.

Afro hair is thicker and voluminous and for that reason braids work perfectly, adapting to the strands and giving more personality and beauty to the hair. Master the techniques of braiding and separating the locks or consult a specialized professional to ensure a look that is always beautiful and with up-to-date maintenance, avoiding breakage of your hair.