So here is yet another video! I plan on dropping a few more this week to make up for lost time :-)
When I am not pressed for time, I usually like to do this style because it lasts much longer than my trusty "8 braid-braidout". To maintain this style for a week or more, I usually stuff my hair underneath a satin bonnet, and fluff/fingerstyle in the morning.
This is a great style for anyone who is transitioning out of a relaxer, and even those that are looking for heat-free styling alternatives. If your hair is straight at the ends, you can always use rollers [flexi rods on the ends worked better for me], or even pin curl the braids to add even more curls.
I decided to use Miss Jessie's Curly Pudding this time around because I wanted a product that offered a bit more hold. If you start with a product like Miss Jessie's, you shouldn't have to worry about re-braiding nightly. I have tried this same style with butters and whipped creams, and my hair just didn't last!
The key to achieving the perfect braidout is more or less your technique/products vs your hair length in my opinion. Here are a few tips I have learned along the way:
- Start on hair that is completely CLEAN, and thoroughly CONDITIONED! - Residue/Buildup on the hair can cause hair to be dull and lifeless. You really want to start off with a clean palette when attempting this style so that your hair will have body, and shine. The softer your hair is [from the conditioner], the smoother the end result will be.
- For more definition, and longer wear-ability: Leave the braids in until completely dry! If you take the braids down before drying your hair thoroughly, you may experience major "poofage".
- Use a leave-in conditioner under products like gels, and puddings: This will eliminate the "crunch factor" that some of these products leave behind.
- Wear a satin bonnet while in the shower! This will help keep the definition, and also keep your hair from "frizzing out".
- Use a creamy leave-in: This can simply be a matter of preference, but I prefer these when I am doing my braidouts, over the thinner conditioners. My hair is extremely coarse, so I need something that is rich and creamy to help soften up my hair a bit if I plan to wear it in it's natural state.
