Back to Basics

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I've circled back to doing braidouts.  

Over the past six months, they've evolved into my signature style.  I mentioned at the start of the style challenge, that I wasn't fond of twist outs because they made my hair too compact.  

But, a well-done braidout can provide the following benefits:

1.  Definition

2.  Volume

3.  Stretch/Length

4.  Lock/Seal in moisture

The combination of defined areas with non-defined areas gives a more carefree and effortless feel.

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For Definition

Depending on what product you use in your hair, as well as, your style preference, a braidout can produce lightly defined results or uber-definition.  

Tip:  If you are in a highly humid climate, try to use products that are somewhat sticky (a gel) or waxy to hold your definition in place.  If your product contains words like "humectant" or "moisturizing", or ingredients like "glycerin", note that they will encourage shrinkage which will equate to a loss of definition in your style.   

Humectants, like glycerin, draw moisture from the surrounding atmosphere, and into your hair or skin. 

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For Volume

Balancing volume against definition can be a bit tricky, especially if you are fine-haired; but, a well-done braid out, once separated and fluffed, should retain fullness, as well as, the braid pattern/definition. 

Tip: Coat your hands and fingers with an oil of your choice before you begin to separate your braids.   The oil should help to decrease excess frizz that might occur as you unravel your hair.

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For Stretch/Length

Self explanatory. 

;-)

Tip:  I make sure my braids are snug, (not tight), at the roots, so that I get the utmost stretchability in my hair.

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Lock/Seal in Moisture
The mechanical process of braiding hair, smooths and stretches out your hair follicles.  If you couple this with hair that is well moisturized and oiled, braiding will basically lock moisture into your strands.  Once the braid is unraveled, you should be left with softened and moisturized hair.


Tip: My hair is always extremely soft whenever I use Lustrasilk Organic Cholesterol as a leave-in.

Source

Braidouts turn out differently each time for me, but I'm generally always pleased with the results.