How To Do Feed In Braids On Yourself: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey guys! Want a hairstyle that's not only super cute and versatile but also lasts for ages? Then feed in braids are totally your jam! This style lets you add long extensions to your hair while creating those sleek cornrows, giving you a look that's both stylish and protective. If you've been wondering how to achieve this look yourself, you've come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, from prepping your hair to adding the final touches. So, grab your braiding hair and let's get started!
What are Feed In Braids?
Let's dive deep into the world of feed in braids! At their core, feed in braids are a braiding technique that involves gradually adding extensions to your natural hair as you braid. Unlike traditional braids where extensions are attached at the very beginning, this method creates a seamless and natural-looking transition. The result? Braids that appear to grow directly from your scalp, hence the name "feed in." This technique not only looks fantastic but also helps to reduce tension on your scalp, making it a gentler option for your natural hair. The beauty of feed in braids lies in their versatility. You can style them in various ways – long, short, thick, thin, straight back, or in intricate patterns. They're perfect for anyone looking to add length, volume, or just a touch of flair to their everyday look. Plus, they're a fantastic protective style, meaning they help shield your natural hair from environmental damage and reduce the need for constant styling. Whether you're aiming for a casual, everyday look or something more glamorous for a special occasion, feed in braids have got you covered. And the best part? With a little practice, you can totally master this technique yourself. No more expensive salon visits – you'll be rocking flawless braids from the comfort of your own home! So, get ready to unleash your inner stylist and transform your hair with this fabulous braiding style.
Preparing Your Hair for Feed In Braids
Before you even think about picking up those extensions, proper hair preparation is key to achieving flawless and long-lasting feed in braids. Think of it as laying the foundation for a masterpiece – you wouldn't build a house on shaky ground, right? The first and most crucial step is to start with clean hair. This means thoroughly shampooing your hair to remove any dirt, oil, and product buildup. Grime can not only make your braids look dull but also lead to scalp irritation. Use a clarifying shampoo to ensure your hair is squeaky clean, then follow up with a moisturizing shampoo to replenish any lost moisture. Next up, conditioning is non-negotiable. Hydrated hair is happy hair, and happy hair is easier to braid. Apply a generous amount of deep conditioner, focusing on the ends, and let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes. You can even use a heat cap to help the conditioner penetrate deeper. Once you rinse out the conditioner, your hair should feel soft, smooth, and manageable. Now comes the detangling process. This is where patience is your best friend. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Avoid yanking or pulling, as this can lead to breakage. For extra slip, you can use a detangling spray or leave-in conditioner. After detangling, it's time to blow-dry your hair. Stretching your hair makes it easier to braid and helps your braids lay flatter against your scalp. Use a low-heat setting and a comb attachment to prevent heat damage. If you prefer, you can also air dry your hair in stretched braids or twists. Finally, give your hair a light trim to remove any split ends or damaged pieces. This will ensure that your braids look neat and polished. With your hair prepped and primed, you're one step closer to rocking those stunning feed in braids!
Gathering Your Supplies
Okay, guys, let's talk supplies! Before you even think about starting those gorgeous feed in braids, you've got to make sure you have all the right tools and materials at your fingertips. Trust me, there's nothing worse than getting halfway through a braid and realizing you're missing something crucial. So, let's break down the essentials. First up, you'll need braiding hair. This is the foundation of your entire look, so choose wisely. Synthetic braiding hair, like Kanekalon, is a popular and affordable option. It comes in a wide range of colors and textures, so you can customize your braids to your heart's content. The amount of hair you'll need depends on the length and thickness of your desired braids, but a good rule of thumb is to have at least 4-6 packs on hand. Next, you'll need a good comb. A wide-tooth comb is perfect for detangling your hair before you start braiding, while a rat-tail comb is essential for creating clean parts and sections. Trust me, sharp parts are key to a polished feed in braid look. Speaking of parts, you'll also need clips or hair ties to keep the sections you're not working on out of the way. This makes the braiding process much smoother and more manageable. Now, let's talk about the actual braiding. You'll need a braiding gel or cream to help grip the hair and keep those braids looking neat and tidy. Look for a product that provides hold without being too stiff or flaky. Another must-have is edge control. This will help you smooth down your edges and create a flawless finish. A toothbrush or small brush is perfect for applying edge control precisely. And don't forget the finishing touches! Hair oil is essential for keeping your scalp moisturized and your braids looking healthy. You might also want to have a pair of scissors on hand to trim any stray hairs or flyaways. Finally, for sealing the ends of your braids, you'll need either hot water or a lighter. Dipping the ends in hot water is a safer option, but a quick pass with a lighter can also do the trick. Just be super careful and work in a well-ventilated area. With all these supplies gathered, you're officially ready to start braiding like a pro!
Step-by-Step Guide to Doing Feed In Braids
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process of creating stunning feed in braids on yourself. Don't worry if it seems daunting at first – with a little practice, you'll be braiding like a pro in no time. First, divide and conquer! Use your rat-tail comb to create a clean part where you want your first braid to start. The size of your part will determine the thickness of your braid, so keep that in mind. Then, separate a small section of your natural hair at the very front of the part. This will be the anchor for your braid. Next up, it's time to introduce the extensions. Take a small piece of braiding hair and fold it in half, creating a loop at the center. Place the loop over your section of natural hair, dividing your natural hair into three strands. This is where the magic happens! Begin braiding your natural hair, incorporating the extensions into the braid as you go. With each stitch, add a small piece of braiding hair to one of the strands. This is the "feed in" part – you're gradually adding hair to create a seamless transition. Keep braiding, feeding in small amounts of hair as you go, until you reach your desired length. Remember to keep the tension consistent to ensure a neat and even braid. Once you've braided all the way down, secure the end with a rubber band or by dipping it in hot water (or using a lighter, if you're comfortable). Now, rinse and repeat! Create another part next to your first braid and repeat the process. Continue braiding until you've achieved your desired number of braids. Don't be afraid to get creative with your partings – curved lines or geometric patterns can add a unique touch. As you braid, take breaks as needed to avoid fatigue. Braiding can be time-consuming, so it's important to pace yourself. And don't forget to keep your hair moisturized! Apply a light oil to your scalp and braids as you go to prevent dryness and breakage. With patience and practice, you'll be rocking a head full of gorgeous feed in braids in no time!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Feed In Braids
Okay, guys, now that you've got the basics down, let's talk about some insider tips and tricks that will take your feed in braid game to the next level! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you achieve flawless, long-lasting braids that look like they came straight from a salon. First up, tension is key! Consistent tension is essential for neat and even braids. Too much tension can cause breakage and scalp irritation, while too little tension can result in loose and messy braids. Practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first few braids aren't perfect. Aim for a firm but gentle grip as you braid. Next, let's talk about hair distribution. Evenly distributing the extensions as you feed them in is crucial for a seamless look. Avoid adding too much hair at once, as this can create bulkiness. Instead, use small pieces and gradually build up the thickness. Speaking of hair, the type of braiding hair you choose can make a big difference. Kanekalon hair is a popular choice because it's lightweight and blends well with most hair textures. However, it can be a bit slippery, so using a braiding gel or cream can help you grip the hair better. Now, let's get into parting perfection. Clean and crisp parts are essential for a polished look. Use a rat-tail comb to create straight lines and take your time to ensure accuracy. You can even use a mirror to check the back of your head. When it comes to braiding patterns, the possibilities are endless! Straight back braids are classic and easy to do, but you can also experiment with curved lines, geometric shapes, or even heart designs. Let your creativity shine! To keep your braids looking fresh for longer, maintenance is key. Wrap your hair in a silk scarf or bonnet at night to prevent frizz and breakage. You can also apply a light oil to your scalp and braids every few days to keep them moisturized. And don't forget about edge control! Smoothing down your edges with a good edge control product can instantly elevate your look. Finally, be patient and persistent! Feed in braids take time and practice to master. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Keep practicing, and you'll be rocking flawless braids in no time.
Maintaining Your Feed In Braids
So, you've spent hours perfecting your feed in braids – congratulations! Now, the key to keeping them looking fresh and fabulous is proper maintenance. Think of it as nurturing a garden; a little TLC goes a long way in ensuring your braids stay healthy and beautiful. First and foremost, hydration is your best friend. Just like your skin, your scalp and hair need moisture to thrive. Invest in a lightweight hair oil or braid spray and apply it to your scalp and braids every few days. This will prevent dryness, itching, and breakage. Pay extra attention to your edges, as they tend to be the most delicate. Speaking of edges, wrapping your hair at night is non-negotiable. A silk scarf or bonnet will protect your braids from friction and prevent frizz. Silk is the ideal material because it's smooth and gentle on your hair. If you're not a fan of scarves or bonnets, you can also try sleeping on a silk pillowcase. Cleansing your scalp is another crucial step in braid maintenance. While you don't need to wash your braids every day, regular cleansing is important to remove buildup and prevent scalp issues. Dilute a gentle shampoo with water and use a spray bottle to apply it to your scalp. Massage gently with your fingertips, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing your braids, as this can cause frizz and loosen them. After washing, it's essential to dry your braids properly. Use a microfiber towel to gently squeeze out excess water, then let your braids air dry. You can also use a hooded dryer on a low setting to speed up the process. Avoid using a regular hairdryer, as the heat can damage your braids. As your braids grow out, you may notice some frizz or flyaways. Tame these with a light styling gel or braid sheen. You can also trim any stray hairs with small scissors. And finally, listen to your scalp! If you experience any itching, irritation, or excessive buildup, it's time to take your braids down. Leaving braids in for too long can lead to hair damage and scalp problems. With proper maintenance, your feed in braids can last for several weeks, giving you a stylish and low-maintenance look. Just remember to treat them with care, and they'll keep you looking fabulous!
Conclusion
And there you have it, guys! You've officially mastered the art of feed in braids. From prepping your hair to adding those final touches, you now have the knowledge and skills to create this stunning style all on your own. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. Keep experimenting, and you'll be rocking gorgeous feed in braids in no time. Feed in braids are more than just a hairstyle – they're a statement. They're a way to express your creativity, protect your natural hair, and boost your confidence. Whether you're going for a casual, everyday look or something more glamorous for a special occasion, feed in braids have got you covered. So, go ahead, unleash your inner stylist and transform your hair with this fabulous braiding technique. And don't forget to share your creations with the world! Tag us in your photos and videos – we can't wait to see your amazing feed in braid looks. Happy braiding!
