How To Make Cornrows Last Longer?

Braiding your hair into cornrows is a normal operation before wearing a wig and hair extensions. Cornrow braids are a convenient option for those who frequently wear wigs. Cause cornrows can protect your natural hair and prolong the duration of a wig or hair extensions. Here in this post, we're pleased to share with you tips and tricks to properly cornrow your hair and to refresh your cornrows to make them last longer.

Benefits of cornrowing your hair before wearing a wig

• Protection: Cornrow braids provide a protective style for your natural hair. They protect your hair from damage from heat and chemicals that may be caused by daily styling.
• Easy to manage: Wearing your hair in cornrows before putting on a wig makes it much easier to manage. The braids will keep your hair in place and prevent it from tangling while you're wearing a wig.
• Versatility: Cornrow braids offer a versatile style that can be worn with a variety of wigs. They can be styled in different ways, so you can switch up your look as often as you like.
• Long-lasting: Cornrow braids can last for several weeks or even months. This means that you can wear the same wig for a long time without having to worry about your natural hair getting in the way.
• Low maintenance: Cornrow braids are low maintenance. You don't have to worry about styling your hair every day, which makes it a convenient option for busy girls.

How to braid your hair into cornrows?

Here is a basic tutorial on how to braid your hair into cornrows:

Step 1: Preparation

Shampoo and condition your hair as you normally would. Make sure your hair is completely detangled and combed through.

Step 2: Section your hair

Use a rat-tail comb or your fingers to part your hair into sections. The size of the sections will depend on the desired thickness of your cornrows.

Step 3: Braid your hair

Take one section of hair and divide it into three equal parts. Hold the left strand in your left hand, the middle strand in your right hand, and the right strand in your left hand. Cross the left strand over the middle strand, and then the right strand over the newly formed middle strand. Add a small amount of hair to the left strand, and then cross it over the middle strand again. Repeat this process, adding small sections of hair to the right strand before crossing it over the middle strand.

Keep braiding the hair in this way, adding small sections of hair to each strand as you proceed, until you reach the end of the section.

Repeat the process for the rest of your hair, making sure to keep the braids close to the scalp.

Step 4: Secure the braids

Once you reach the end of your hair, secure the ends of the braids with hair bands or elastic. You can also use some bobby pins to fix the tails to achieve a flat base.

It may take some time to perfect the technique, but with practice, you should be able to create beautiful cornrows. Additionally, be sure to protect the braids with a scarf or wrap them at night to keep them neat and in place.

How to properly clean your cornrows to make them last longer?

It's also imperative to remember that hair care and maintenance are also critical. Here is a basic tutorial on how to clean your cornrows:

Step 1: Minimize tangles

If you use bobby pins to fix your cornrows, take them out to release your cornrows. Comb through the cornrows with a wide-tooth comb to minimize tangles. 

Step 2: Shampoo your cornrows

Next, shower the cornrows with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can cause the hair and scalp to break. Apply a small amount of shampoo or cleanser specifically formulated for braided hair, such as a sulfate-free option, to your scalp and work it through the cornrows using your finger pads. Gently massage the scalp, being careful not to pull or tug on the hair. Rinse out the foam thoroughly with lukewarm water again.

Step 3: Condition your cornrows

Apply a small amount of conditioner to the hair, and comb through the cornrows with a wide-tooth comb to ensure that it is evenly distributed.

Rinse the cornrows again with lukewarm water to remove the conditioner.

Step 4: Allow them to dry

Gently pat the cornrows dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing or wringing the hair to prevent damage. Allow the cornrows to air dry or blow-dry on a low setting. 

Step 5: Moisturize your cornrows

Once dry, gently massage a small amount of light oil or leave-in conditioner into the hair to keep it moisturized and prevent tangling.

Tips to make cornrows last longer

Proper hair care and maintenance are also imperative to prolong the cornrows' duration. There are some easy tricks you can do at home to make cornrows last longer:

Tip 1: Keep your hair and scalp clean. 

Regularly wash your hair and scalp with a mild shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using heavy styling products that contain silicone, wax, or mineral oil. These types of products can weigh down your hair and cause buildup.

Tip 2: Be gentle when styling

Be careful not to pull or tug on the cornrows too much, as this can cause the braids to loosen and unravel.

Tip 3: Use a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase at night

You can protect your braids from drying out and becoming frizzy by wrapping them in a satin or silk scarf.

Tip 4: Avoid exposing your braids to chlorine or other harsh chemicals

Avoid diving into a swimming pool directly and exposing your braids to chlorine. Hair can be stripped of moisture when exposed to chlorine. If possible, put on a swimming cap before diving into the pool.

Tip 5: Hydrate your cornrows

Using a light oil or leave-in conditioner to moisturize your scalp and hair can help to strengthen and refresh your cornrows.

By following these tips, your cornrows can last longer and maintain a fresh, neat look.

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