Micro braids are a stunning and intricate hairstyle that has captured the attention of many. These tiny, delicate braids are known for their detailed and meticulous appearance, creating a unique and eye – catching look. Originating from traditional African hair styling techniques, micro braids involve dividing the hair into extremely small sections and braiding each section from the root to the tip.
The popularity of micro braids has soared in recent years, not only because of their aesthetic appeal but also due to their protective nature. They can shield your hair from daily damage, such as breakage and split ends, and allow you to experiment with various hairstyles. Whether you’re going for an elegant look for a special occasion or a trendy, everyday style, micro braids can be customized to suit your preferences.
Factors Affecting the Time to Get Micro Braids
Hair Length
Hair length is one of the most significant factors that influence how long it takes to get micro braids.
Short Hair: If your hair is short, typically around 2 – 4 inches in length, the process of creating micro braids can be relatively quicker compared to longer hair. Short hair is more manageable, and there is less hair to work with in each section. On average, it might take about 3 – 5 hours to complete a full head of short micro braids. Since the strands are shorter, the braiding process can move along at a faster pace. However, even with short hair, the small size of micro braids still requires a fair amount of time and precision to ensure each braid is well – formed.
Medium – Length Hair: Medium – length hair, which usually ranges from 4 – 8 inches, takes more time to braid into micro braids. With the increased length, there are more hair strands in each section, making the braiding process more time – consuming. It can take anywhere from 5 – 8 hours to complete a full head of medium – length micro braids. The additional length means you need to be more careful while braiding to keep the braids even and tight. Also, as the hair is longer, it may be more prone to tangling during the process, which can slow you down further.
Long Hair: Long hair, generally 8 inches or more, is the most time – consuming when it comes to micro braiding. There is a substantial amount of hair in each section, and each individual braid requires a great deal of effort and time to finish. It can take 8 – 12 hours or even longer to complete a full head of long micro braids. The longer the hair, the more likely it is to get knotted, and you may need to spend extra time detangling before starting the braiding. Additionally, the weight of long hair can make it more difficult to handle, adding to the overall time spent on the hairstyle.
Hair Thickness
The thickness of your hair also plays a crucial role in determining the time needed for micro braiding.
Thin Hair: People with thin hair usually find that the micro braiding process is a bit faster. Thin hair is easier to separate into small sections, and each braid doesn’t take as long to complete since there are fewer strands in each section. A full head of micro braids on thin hair might take around 4 – 6 hours, depending on the length. However, thin hair may require more attention to ensure that the braids are secure and don’t come undone easily. You may need to use more hair products to hold the braids in place, which can add a bit of time to the process.
Thick Hair: Thick hair, on the other hand, can be a real challenge when it comes to micro braiding. With a large number of hair strands in each section, it takes a lot more time to braid. The process of sectioning the hair alone can be time – consuming, as you need to make sure each section is as small as required for micro braids and is even. Braiding a full head of thick micro braids can take anywhere from 8 – 12 hours or more. Moreover, thick hair often requires more product to keep it manageable during the braiding process, which can further extend the overall time spent.
Braid Density
The density of the micro braids, or how many braids you want on your head, has a direct impact on the time it takes to complete the hairstyle.
Low – Density Micro Braids: If you opt for low – density micro braids, meaning there are fewer braids on your head, the process will be quicker. With fewer sections to braid, you can finish the hairstyle in less time. For example, a head with low – density micro braids might take around 5 – 7 hours, depending on other factors like hair length and thickness. However, keep in mind that low – density micro braids may not give you the same full and elaborate look as higher – density ones.
High – Density Micro Braids: High – density micro braids involve creating a large number of small braids, resulting in a very detailed and full appearance. This style requires a significant amount of time and patience. Each individual braid needs to be carefully formed, and since there are more sections, the overall process is much more time – consuming. A full head of high – density micro braids can take 10 – 15 hours or even longer. The more braids you have, the more precise you need to be with each one, which greatly increases the time spent on the hairstyle.
Skill Level of the Braider
Whether you’re braiding your own hair or having someone else do it, the skill level of the braider makes a huge difference in the time required.
Beginner Braiders: If you’re new to micro braiding, it’s going to take you a lot longer to complete the hairstyle. You may struggle with sectioning the hair into small, even sections, and the actual braiding technique may be slower as you’re still learning. Beginners may take 10 – 15 hours or more to finish a full head of micro braids, especially if they’re working on longer or thicker hair. There will likely be a lot of trial and error involved, and you may need to redo some braids if they don’t turn out right, which adds to the overall time spent.
Intermediate Braiders: Intermediate braiders have a better understanding of the micro braiding process and can work more efficiently. They are more familiar with different techniques and can section the hair more quickly. An intermediate braider might take 7 – 10 hours to braid a full head of micro braids, depending on the hair’s characteristics. They can handle most common micro braiding styles with relative ease but may still need some extra time to perfect more complex designs.
Professional Braiders: Professional braiders are highly skilled and experienced in creating micro braids. They have mastered the art of dividing hair into tiny sections and braiding them with precision. A professional braider can complete a full head of micro braids in 6 – 9 hours, even for challenging hair types and styles. Their years of practice allow them to work quickly without sacrificing the quality of the braids, ensuring that each one is neat and secure.
Step – by – Step Guide to Getting Micro Braids and Estimated Time for Each Step
Preparation (45 – 90 minutes)
Wash and Condition Hair: Start by washing your hair using a gentle shampoo and conditioner. This helps to remove dirt, oil, and any product buildup, making your hair clean and easier to work with. Washing can take about 20 – 30 minutes, depending on the length and thickness of your hair. After washing, use a wide – tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair thoroughly. Detangling can take another 25 – 60 minutes, especially if your hair is prone to tangling. Take your time during this step to avoid breakage.
Dry Hair: Once your hair is clean and detangled, you need to dry it completely. You can air – dry your hair, which may take several hours, or use a blow – dryer on a low – heat setting. Using a blow – dryer can speed up the process and take about 20 – 40 minutes, but be careful not to damage your hair with excessive heat. Make sure your hair is completely dry before moving on to the next step, as wet hair can be more difficult to section and braid.
Section the Hair: Divide your hair into four main sections using clips or rubber bands. Then, further divide each of these sections into smaller sub – sections. For micro braids, these sub – sections should be very small, usually no larger than the width of a pencil. Sectioning the hair can take about 20 – 40 minutes, especially if you’re aiming for very precise and even sections. It’s important to take your time during this step to ensure that each braid will be the same size and shape.
Braiding Process
Starting the Braid: Take a small section of hair from one of the pre – sectioned areas. Split this tiny section into three equal parts. Then, cross the right strand over the middle strand, and then the left strand over the new middle strand. This is the basic three – strand braid technique, which is the foundation for micro braids. Starting each braid may take about 2 – 3 minutes, especially if you’re making sure that the base of the braid is tight and secure.
Continuing the Braid: As you continue to braid, add small amounts of hair from the sides of the section into each strand as you cross them over the middle. This is what creates the micro braid look. The time it takes to continue braiding each section depends on the length of the hair. For a short section of hair, it may take about 8 – 12 minutes to braid to the end. For a medium – length section, it can take 12 – 20 minutes, and for a long section, it might take 20 – 35 minutes.
Finishing the Braid: Once you reach the end of the section, secure the braid with a small rubber band. Finishing each braid usually takes about 1 – 2 minutes. You may also choose to dip the ends of the braids in hot water (with caution) to seal them and prevent fraying, which can add a bit more time to the process.
Overall Time for the Braiding Process
If you’re doing a full head of micro braids, assuming an average of 100 – 200 braids depending on the density, and taking into account the time for each individual braid as well as any breaks or adjustments, the total braiding time can vary greatly. For example, if each braid takes an average of 15 minutes and you have 150 braids, the braiding process alone would take about 2250 minutes or approximately 37.5 hours. But in reality, with breaks and more efficient working, it might take 12 – 18 hours for a beginner, 9 – 12 hours for an intermediate, and 7 – 9 hours for a professional.
Tips to Speed Up the Micro Braiding Process
Practice Regularly
The more you practice micro braiding, the faster and more proficient you’ll become. Set aside some time to practice on small sections of your hair or on a mannequin head. Try different techniques and experiment with various ways of sectioning the hair. The more familiar you are with the process, the quicker you’ll be able to complete the hairstyle.
Use the Right Tools
Invest in high – quality hair products and tools. A good pair of sharp hair scissors can help you trim any stray hairs or uneven ends quickly. A fine – toothed comb is essential for separating the hair into small, precise sections. Strong hair clips that hold the hair securely in place can make sectioning the hair much easier and faster. Additionally, using a hair gel or pomade can help keep the hair in place during the braiding process, reducing the time spent on fixing flyaways and unruly strands.
Work in an Organized Manner
Create a system for sectioning and braiding the hair. For example, start from the nape of the neck and work your way up and around the head in a systematic pattern. Labeling the sections or using a specific color – coding system can also help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t miss any sections or create uneven braids. This way, you can work more efficiently and save time.
Take Breaks Strategically
Micro braiding can be a time – consuming and physically demanding process. Taking regular breaks can help prevent fatigue and keep you focused. However, try to plan your breaks strategically. For example, take a short break after completing a certain number of braids or after working for a specific amount of time. This can help you stay fresh and work more quickly in the long run.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the time it takes to get micro braids can vary significantly depending on several factors, including hair length, thickness, braid density, and the skill level of the braider. Understanding these factors and following the tips provided can help you better estimate the time required and potentially speed up the process. Micro braids are a beautiful and versatile hairstyle that can enhance your look, but they do require patience and time. Whether you’re a beginner looking to try this intricate style or someone with more experience aiming to improve efficiency, with practice and the right approach, you can achieve stunning micro braids in a reasonable amount of time.
Related topics:
How Men with Short Hair Can Master Bold Styles？
How Long Does It Take to Braid Box Braids?
