Braids have been a popular hairstyle for centuries, loved for their versatility, style, and ability to protect hair. Whether you’re looking to switch up your look, attend a special event, or simply keep your hair out of your face, getting braids is a great option. But one common question that often comes up is, “How long does it take to get braids?” The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on several factors. Let’s take a deep dive into all the elements that influence the time it takes to get braids and explore different types of braids and their typical durations.
Factors Affecting the Time to Get Braids
Type of Braid
The most significant factor determining the time it takes to get braids is the type of braid you choose. Different braid styles vary greatly in complexity, which directly impacts the installation time.
Simple Braids: Styles like the classic three – strand braid are among the quickest to do. They are easy to learn and can be completed in just a few minutes. Even if you’re new to braiding, you can master this style relatively fast. Another simple option is the two – strand twist, which is essentially two sections of hair twisted around each other. It’s a basic style that can be done in under 10 minutes, depending on the length of your hair.
Complex Braids: On the other hand, more intricate styles such as box braids, cornrows, and fishtail braids take significantly longer. Box braids, for example, involve dividing the hair into small square sections and then braiding each section. The number of box braids can vary depending on your preference, but a full head of small box braids can take anywhere from 3 to 8 hours. Cornrows, which are braids that lie flat against the scalp, also require a lot of precision. A simple cornrow pattern might take 1 – 2 hours, while a more elaborate design with multiple sections and patterns could take 4 – 6 hours. Fishtail braids, known for their delicate and intricate look, are time – consuming as well. Creating a fishtail braid involves splitting the hair into two sections and then crossing small pieces of hair from the outer edges to the opposite side. A single fishtail braid on long hair can take 20 – 30 minutes, and a full head of fishtail – inspired styles can take several hours.
Hair Length and Thickness
Your hair’s length and thickness play crucial roles in how long it takes to get braids.
Long Hair: Longer hair takes more time to braid because there is more hair to work with. Each braid has to cover a greater length, which means more passes and more time spent on each individual braid. For example, if you have waist – length hair and want to get box braids, it will take much longer compared to someone with shoulder – length hair getting the same style. The additional length requires more care and attention to ensure the braids are even and secure.
Thick Hair: Thick hair also adds to the braiding time. With more hair strands in each section, it takes longer to separate, braid, and secure the sections. Stylists may need to divide thick hair into more sections to make the braiding process more manageable, which further increases the overall time. In contrast, thin hair is generally quicker to braid as there is less volume to handle. However, thin hair may require more finesse to create sturdy and long – lasting braids.
Skill Level of the Braider
The skill level of the person doing the braiding can make a huge difference in the time it takes.
Professional Stylist: A professional braider who has years of experience and has worked on various hair types and styles will be much faster. They are familiar with different techniques, know how to efficiently divide hair sections, and can create consistent and neat braids in less time. For instance, an experienced stylist might be able to complete a full head of medium – sized box braids in 4 – 5 hours, while a beginner could take 6 – 8 hours or even longer to achieve the same result.
DIY Braiding: If you’re doing the braids yourself, especially if you’re new to braiding, it will likely take you longer. You may need to stop and start, refer to tutorials, and take more time to perfect each braid. However, with practice, you can significantly reduce the time it takes to create your desired braid style.
Number of Braids
The number of braids you want can also impact the overall time.
Fewer Braids: Opting for a style with fewer, larger braids will take less time. For example, if you choose to get just a few large cornrows or a couple of thick box braids, the installation process will be quicker compared to a style with numerous small braids. Fewer braids mean less time spent on dividing the hair into sections and braiding each individual piece.
More Braids: On the contrary, a style with a large number of small braids, like micro braids or very small box braids, will take much longer. Each small braid requires detailed work, and the cumulative time for all the braids can add up to several hours. A full head of micro braids, for instance, can take 8 – 12 hours or even more, depending on the hair length and the skill of the braider.
Time Estimates for Different Braid Styles
Box Braids
As mentioned earlier, box braids are a popular but time – consuming style.
Small Box Braids: A full head of small box braids on medium – length hair can take around 5 – 7 hours for an experienced stylist. If your hair is long and thick, it could take 7 – 8 hours or more. Small box braids require precise sectioning of the hair into small square sections, and each section needs to be braided carefully to create the characteristic box shape.
Medium – Sized Box Braids: Medium – sized box braids are a bit quicker. An experienced stylist can complete a full head in about 4 – 5 hours. The larger sections mean less time spent on individual braids, but the overall look is still stylish and protective.
Large Box Braids: Large box braids are the fastest to install among box braid styles. A full head can be done in 2 – 3 hours. They offer a bold and dramatic look and are a great option if you’re short on time but still want the box braid style.
Cornrows
Cornrows come in various patterns and can take different amounts of time.
Simple Straight Cornrows: A basic pattern of simple straight cornrows, running from the front to the back of the head, can be completed in 1 – 2 hours for an experienced stylist. This style is straightforward and involves dividing the hair into sections and braiding them flat against the scalp in a straight line.
Complex Cornrow Patterns: More elaborate cornrow designs, such as those with twists, turns, and geometric shapes, can take 4 – 6 hours. These styles require a high level of skill and precision as the stylist has to create intricate patterns while keeping the braids flat and secure.
Fishtail Braids
Single Fishtail Braid: Creating a single fishtail braid on long hair can take approximately 20 – 30 minutes. It’s a delicate process that involves splitting the hair into two sections and carefully crossing small pieces of hair from one side to the other to create the unique fishtail pattern.
Fishtail – Inspired Styles: If you want a full head of fishtail – inspired styles, such as multiple fishtail braids or a fishtail – style updo, it can take 3 – 5 hours. This is because each individual braid takes time, and the overall styling to make it look cohesive also requires additional effort.
French Braids
Single French Braid: A single French braid, which starts at the top of the head and gradually adds more hair as it goes down, can be done in 10 – 15 minutes for someone with some braiding experience. It’s a classic style that gives a neat and elegant look.
Multiple French Braids: If you opt for multiple French braids across your head, the time can increase significantly. A full head of French braids can take 2 – 3 hours, depending on the number of braids and the length and thickness of your hair. Each French braid requires careful sectioning and weaving of the hair to create the seamless look.
Tips to Reduce Braiding Time
Prepare Your Hair in Advance
Wash and Detangle: Make sure your hair is clean and completely detangled before starting the braiding process. Tangled hair can slow down the braiding significantly as the stylist has to spend extra time working out the knots. Use a good quality detangling spray or conditioner to make the process easier.
Section Your Hair: If possible, divide your hair into large sections before going to the stylist. This can help the stylist start braiding right away and save some time. You can use clips or hair ties to keep the sections separate.
Communicate Clearly with Your Stylist
Discuss Your Expectations: Before the braiding begins, talk to your stylist about the style you want, the size of the braids, and how long you expect the process to take. This way, the stylist can plan accordingly and give you a more accurate time estimate.
Be Specific: Provide as many details as you can. For example, if you want a particular pattern for your cornrows or a specific length for your box braids, let the stylist know. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that the braiding process goes smoothly.
Practice Makes Perfect (for DIY Braiding)
Learn Basic Techniques: If you plan to do your own braids, take the time to learn basic braiding techniques. Watch tutorials online, practice on a mannequin head or a friend’s hair, and gradually build up your skills. The more you practice, the faster and better you’ll become at braiding.
Start with Simple Styles: Begin with simple braid styles like the three – strand braid or the two – strand twist. Once you’ve mastered these, you can move on to more complex styles. This step – by – step approach will help you improve your skills and reduce the time it takes to create different braid styles.
Aftercare for Your Braids
After you’ve spent the time getting your braids done, proper aftercare is essential to keep them looking good and lasting longer.
Keep Your Scalp Clean: Use a gentle, sulfate – free shampoo to wash your scalp. You can dilute the shampoo with water and use a spray bottle to apply it to your scalp. This helps remove dirt, sweat, and product buildup without damaging the braids.
Moisturize Your Hair: Braids can sometimes make your hair dry. Use a leave – in conditioner or a hair oil to moisturize your hair and scalp. Apply the product gently to the braids and the scalp, focusing on the ends of the braids to prevent them from drying out and breaking.
Protect Your Braids at Night: Wear a satin or silk bonnet or use a satin pillowcase when you sleep. This reduces friction between your hair and the pillow, preventing the braids from getting frizzy and tangled.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the time it takes to get braids can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of braid, your hair’s length and thickness, the skill level of the braider, and the number of braids. By understanding these factors and following the tips provided, you can have a better idea of how long the process will take and take steps to make it as efficient as possible. Whether you’re going for a simple, quick braid or an elaborate, time – consuming style, with the right preparation and care, you can enjoy beautiful and long – lasting braids.
Related topics:
How Long Does It Take to Braid Box Braids?
How Long Does It Take to Get Micro Braids?
