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Hair Braids - Four Life Lessons

Braided hair has both aesthetic and historical significance. Interwoven strands bound together in elegant formations, being beautifully practical. Functionally, braids keep hairs out of our face, so we are able to carry on the work of the day. Aesthetically, braids are an accessory to frame the face and accessorize the head. Many cultures throughout history have created braids that hold special significance relating to age, religion, status, etc. However, today we seem to have lost these meanings. Instead we focus specifically on the pleasing design.

I love the braid, but I prefer to go beyond merely its beauty. I want to share with you four lessons that the braid has taught me about life.

First Lesson: Community. With the braid, many strands are brought together as one. We as individuals are many and have our own minds, do our own things. Generally, we go our own way-not to the benefit anyone else. But when we come together, there is strength of mind, a singularity of purpose, with the same goal.

Second Lesson: Variation. The braid is created by overlapping sections of hair one over the other in a predictable way, the left-middle-right-middle-left-middle path continues as such until arriving at the braid's end. In life, too, there is variation and change. Good things happen, and then some not-so-good-things happen. Especially at "bad" times, it seems as if more of the not-so-good occur than the good or the "just okay". But if you step back from any specific situation, you will see it resembles more of the braid-like cycle.

Third Lesson: Empowerment. The braid orders what is not in order. It guides the hair with predetermination the finished product. Empowerment is when we realize that we can have an affect on our world. We can guide what is out of line, clarify that which is confusing, control what is out-of-control, and order our life in a way that better suits us. We, like the braid, are able to do this.

Fourth Lesson: Completion. The braid is always completed in a clearly defined way, by rubber bands, ribbons, hair clips, thread, bobby pins, beads, braiding to the tip, twisting ends or by some other method. If not, all the work will become undone. An ending always signifies completion of the braid. Whenever we start a project we must finish in a significant way to indicate we have done the job well and our work cannot come apart. How do we finish a task, project, or job? Make sure the order that is created at the beginning is what you end with. Make sure what is created will maintain itself after moving onto another project. A secure finish means to create the means or mechanism that insures that will happen. Whether your "braid" is raising a child, setting up a restaurant, or studying for a test. With this, you will know you're braid is complete.

Remembering these four braid lessons are a help to me. They remind me to make good choices and walk in the right direction.

So next time you don't know what to do in a situation-perhaps you should gather your hair for some braid wisdom.

Hi there! I'm April and I enjoy creating a more beautiful environment, connecting with an engaged global community, meditating on the wonders of nature, and envisioning life as I wish it to be. As well, these are the hopes I have for you.

Come visit my blog at: http://www.braidstylesblog.muxgo.com

How To Do Hair In a French Braid

It might look complicated, but don't let that fool you: Learning how to do hair in a French braid is easier than you'd think. You want to start by brushing out all the tangles from your hair, then smooth your hair down with a mousse or holding gel. The mousse will help keep your hair in place while you work on it.

You will then take a section at the front of the hair where the bangs are or would be. This section should be from temple to temple (right above the ear line).

You'll want to separate this section into three parts, then start braiding the right section over the middle one. Since you don't want any hair slipping out of your grasp, hold on tight to the braid.

Now, you pull the left section over the middle section. When you're learning how to do hair in a French braid, you can keep a spritz bottle of water next to you in case the hair dries out some. Handling wet rather than dry hair is so much easier.

The next step is to use a comb to take a strip of hair from your head, on the left side. You'll be taking this strip of hair about an inch down from the temple. Then you will add it to the left section of the braid.

You will do the same on the right side of the head. Then, braid the right section of hair over the middle section. Then the left strip of hair needs to be braided over the middle section.

Keep on braiding and adding new sections of hair until you finally reach the bottom of your head. Finish up the braid by braiding the bottom or the loose part of the hair into a regular braid.

Use a ribbon or pony tail holder to tie the end of your hair. It's easy to learn how to do hair in a French braid if you practice.

Visit How To Do Hair for more beautiful yet simple Hair Styles [http://www.howtodohair.net/category/hair-styles], Hair Accessories and Hair Care [http://www.howtodohair.net/category/hair-care] advice.

Black Hair and Alopecia

Traction alopecia is a common form of black hair loss. While this type of alopecia is seen worldwide, and common to Sikh men and Japanese women due to their traditional hair styles, it is most widely seen in African-American women and men.

Alopecia's? are believed to be the fifth most common dermatological complaint among Black people, with chemical and traction? alopecia's the most common.Population studies show a prevalence of 17.1% in African schoolgirls and of 31.7% in women inflicted, with numbers steadily rising.

?There are 2 types of traction alopecia, marginal and non-marginal. Marginal traction is caused by appliances such as tight curlers and rollers, where the hair loss pattern reflects the use of these objects. Whereas a non-marginal pattern occurs created through effects like hair buns creating hair loss in the area where the bun actually sits. This type of alopecia for this reason is often seen in nurses.

Causes

Traction alopecia is mainly caused by damage to the dermal papilla and hair follicle, through steady pressure over time. Normally induced by various hair styling practices (e.g. use of braids, hair rollers, weaves, twists, locks, or "cornrows") Cornrows are most frequently blamed due to the repeated steady high pressure overtime.

The pulling causes hair to loosen from its roots; however, hair loss occurs secondary to follicular inflammation and atrophy. Often the loss is symmetric and along the hairline adjacent to the temples.

Traction Alopecia can also occur due to over processing of the hair.Chemical treatments which use products such as dyes, bleaches, or relaxers can damage the keratin structure rendering the hair extremely fragile. ?The hair then falls out very easily with brushing or combing.

A form of scarring alopecia also may occur in post-menopausal women, associated with inflammation of hair follicles and subsequent scarring

Signs

Individuals usually complain of itching and dandruff at first which is usually followed by patchy areas of hair loss. Other signs may include:

Scalp shows signs inflammation with scales and pustules.

Symmetrical hair loss.
Treatment

In the initial stages, this hair loss is reversible but with prolonged traction,once scaring occurs and hair follicles are damaged beyond repair, alopecia can be permanent.

Hair styles that put unnecessary strain on the hair root must be changed for looser, less traumatic hair styles.

If you are going to wear your hair braided then it is advisable request that your stylist does not pull or plait them tightly and likewise hairdressers specialising in braids and locks should warn their clients of the possible dangers of prolonged tension.

To summarise the key to stopping traction alopecia is detecting it early. African-American women, who suspect they may be vulnerable to traction alopecia should change their hair styles and seek professional advice.?

Follow Sonia Evelyn as she shares her knowledge as an expert writer in the field of natural black hair care and chemicals in cosmetics. For a free monthly article that provides further information on hair care, click A is for Alcohol. For further reading visit http://evelynproducts.com/.

Discover Different Types of Hair Weaves

Hair weaving is a growing fashion trend accepted by women of all ages across the globe. It is a hairstyle that gives a neat look and also enhances the natural beauty of the wearer. This comfortable and easy-to-maintain style is an age-old haircut that lost its value in the years between but in the recent years the rejuvenated form has gained much popularity. The refreshed form of hair weave is now accepted by known stars and celebrities, thus making it even more ubiquitous. This acceptance by known celebrities has given a new direction and form to the trend in the fashion world.

There are various different ways hair weaving can be done. Each form has its unique appeal and is an easy way for getting an instant change in the overall personality. Look into the following and explore some of the trendiest forms of hair weaves:

Human Hair Weave

Human hair weave is a form of weaving that is styled using real hair of someone who have sacrificed their tresses for some or the other reason. This kind gives a natural look but the only problem faced is getting the appropriate match in terms of color and texture.

Synthetic Hair Weave

Synthetic hair weave is done using artificial weaves that are braided into micro-braids or simply twisted to make a unique pattern. These are temporary attachments used to offer a different look.

Curly Weaves

Curly weaves are achieved by braiding curly extensions to the hair strands. This can only be done by a professional hair stylist. It requires lot of care and maintenance especially while washing and drying hair.

Bonded Weaves

Bonded weaves are attained by attaching the extensions to small sections of natural hair using bonding glue adhesive. Getting this type of weave is a costly affair and requires lot of care especially when getting it removed. If not done properly or removed properly it can cause a permanent damage to the hair. The life of bonded weaves is about one to two months and it should be removed prior to the bonds getting loose.

Fusion Weave

Fusion weave is also a tricky method but gives a striking and fuller look to the wearer. It is achieved by dividing hair into small sections and then attaching the extensions using hot wax. Fusion weaves tend to last to approximate two or three months and is comparatively more expensive than the bonded weaves.

Check out more haircuts and Hairstyles.

Hairstyles for Thin Hair

When you have thinner hair, it can be hard to find the right hairstyle that will not only compliment your facial shape but also perhaps hide the thinning spots of your hair as well. All too many times the latest and most popular hairstyles tend to only accentuate your thinning hair instead of making you feel more comfortable and fashionable. There are millions of people who have thin or fine hair that may not go well with absolutely every hairstyle, but there are many great hairstyles that can compliment your hair and your style.

As men and women both experience thinning and fine hair, men have to be just as careful with their hairstyles as women. For men the absolute best hairstyle and cut to go with is of course the short hairstyle. If you have really fine and thinning hair than you will want to avoid the spiked up look but if your hair is only slightly fine than you can more than likely still pull off the gelled spikes and enjoy this style as it is a classic that will never go out of style. If you hair is too fine for this look than there is nothing wrong with leaving your hair short and not styled. Men can pull off this look as sexy, rugged and even casual.

As a woman, it is not as easy to find the best hairstyles to compliment their thin or fine hair. Short hairstyles are known for taking the attention away from your hair and back to your face. This makes the shorter lengths, about chin length or slightly longer, your best choice for appropriate length. The side swept bangs are very popular for 2008 and they are perfect for thinning hair because they bring attention to your face and add a bit of volume to your hair cut at the same time. To create the appearance of thicker and fuller hair all you have to do is pin your hair behind your ears. It is the simplest technique to create the appearance of thick hair, even if you don't have it.

If you are attached to your long hair, there are several different styles you can go with in order to hide your thinning or fine hair and make it appear as though you have a thick head of hair. Any style that allows you to pull your hair up into a fancy up-do or even just a pony tail can help you minimize the look of thinning hair. Braids are another option you have at your disposal as they create a great look for going out at night and going to work during the day. Each of these ideas provides a variety of different options within one another so you are never coming up blank with hairstyle ideas.

For those of you out there with thinning hair it is important to stay out of the sun for longer periods of time because this can greatly damage your hair and even make it thin that much more. Also using curling irons or flat irons on a regular basis is also something you should try to avoid. These are both damaging treatments for your hair, if you can avoid using products and styling tools to create your hairstyle you should.

You are not alone, there are millions of people who have the same thinning hair problem and are looking for great hairstyles to disguise it. By following these great tips and steps you are on the road to a new look and a new you! There is nothing better than loving your new hairstyle and hiding your thin areas.

About The Author
Paul Jones researches and provides article content for womens' health, beauty and fashion. Choose Your New Hairstyle at HairDoHairstyles.com where you will find 100's of Pictures of Hairstyles along with hairstyle advice. Try out the Virtual Hairstyle Demo before you cut. Learn how you can "Plan The Perfect Wedding on A Shoestring Budget." Its all in a neat little e-book. Yours Free just for visiting HairDohairstyles.com

How to Choose the Right Professional Hair Braider For the Style You Want Without the Drama

Truth be told, there are those who simply braid hair and then there is the gifted hair braider. There is a huge difference and you definitely want to find yourself sitting in the chair of a style maven! These creative professionals have helped to build a multi-million dollar industry by styling intricate hairdos people look at and lust after.

While the expense can be high, it pays to go to a real hair braiding salon to get professional results. No one wants their hair looking like they just rolled out of bed. If you want braids, then you want them to be neat and organized. You want your hair to look like you made an investment in your personal image.

If you have chosen to keep your hair natural, then you don't want to feel limited with regard to what you can do with it. Having natural hair can be very liberating. There are some hair braiders that can do things with natural hair that you could not even imagine. They are often licensed professionals that know how to use colors to accentuate your features while giving your hair a vivid, lively look.

If length is what you desire, these professional hair braiders are skilled in selecting the best hair extensions - human or synthetic - for the style that you want. They can add hair extensions to both create these styles, but also to make the hair appear thicker and fuller.

Professional hair braiders can be found in many full service salons as more salon owners are trying to meet the need of a growing demand for braided hair. They understand that their services should be reflective of the beauty trends. This also holds true for styling natural hair.

You want to pick a professional who:

* insists on a consultation

* manages a substantial client base and shares testimonials

* cares for adult and children's hair

* uses a full range of hair care resources to wash and care for your braids

* offers suggestions and recommendations on managing your braids between visits

Gone are the days of feeling forced to get your hair straightened. Society is starting to appreciate beauty in its full natural range. From kinky to curly, everything goes! When you find a good hair braider, you will be able to see their skills as they use their nimble finger tips to make even the most intricate styles appear before your eyes. They usually are very confident with their craft, and are often sought after so be sure to have an open mind and open appointment book!

Once you have your appointment day rolls around, the most important thing to remember is that getting your hair braided should never be painful!

Now you have some information to get started with picking a hair braiding salon or full service salon that will meet your fashionable style needs. So get your hair done! You will reap the benefits at work and at play.

Natasha Vincent gets tips straight from the stylists to help you enjoy getting and caring for your braids. Get a hair braider in your city - MyBraids.com.

How to Market Your Hair Salon Using the Powerful Process of Article Marketing

Content is crucial to any business whether online or offline. If you are a hair salon that wants to get more customers, one of the best ways to do it is through the submission of articles. The major search engines like Google.com and Yahoo.com use content as a gauge to rank whether a site is worthy of a top position. If you're site lacks good content, because it does not have quality content to grab viewers attention, then your site cannot grab a top position with the search engines.

Providing quality content that is compelling, unique and informative increases viewership. People go online looking for information that's going to help them. That's a fact. So, if you can have quality written articles on your website, you have a better chance at being found by your market.

Here are some tips on marketing your salon articles online:

1. Create articles between 300 and 500 words long.

2. Provide content that your readers can benefit from. Information that's informative, engaging and that your readers can learn from is necessary in order to increase your readership and traffic numbers.

3.Provide in demand content. What topic is hot in your market? Give your readers what they are looking for.

4. If you have your own product or provide a specific service, write content on those things using keywords. For example, if you are a master hair braider in your area, use keywords in your article content like "best hair braiding salon California" so that people can find you. This will help you gain more prospects and customers.

5. If you are not a writer, no problem! You can get professionally written articles done for you that support your business products and services.

6. Submit your article to article directory websites, blogs and online newsletters to help to target more of your market.

Following these tactics will not only gain you more prospects and customers, but it will also help you gain more credibility in your marketplace, which will inevitably help your business. If you can take action to start marketing your business, you will most definitely begin to see some positive results.

There are many strategies you can use to help promote your hair salon business online. However, nothing makes sense unless you can provide good quality content to your market. Article Marketing is one of the most profitable ways to help to promote any salon business. When people go to the internet they want information. If you can create content that your prospects find informative, you can take your salon business to the next level. Janice Johnson helps salons market their business. Discover how to use ready-made hair salon newsletter article templates for your hair salon business by visiting http://www.hairsalonnewsletters.com. Get started right away!

How to Get Fabulous Hair Braid Results

If you want to get professional quality hair braid results, then there are certain things you should do before and after you get your hair braided. Follow these tips and you will keep your braids looking great.

1.    Before your hair is braided, wash your hair thoroughly and blow-dry it. You want your scalp to be clean beforehand since it is more challenging to keep your scalp clean after your hair is braided.

2.    Treat yourself to a hot oil deep treatment prior to your hair braid appointment. This will make your hair easier to manage because it makes hair pliable and locks in moisture.  After you get your braids, applying oil to your scalp regularly will also help to replenish your hair and help prevents dryness.

3.    If someone is else braiding your hair, ensure that you speak up if the hair is being braided too tight. Medium tension is best. The last thing you want is for hair breakage and thinning to occur due to the pulling tension at your hairline.

If your braids were braided too tight, then can get some relief by taking a hot shower. The steam from the shower will help loosen the braids a bit.

4.    Do not use heavy conditioners and shampoos on braided hair. These can cake residue on to your hair and can be hard to remove. You can use a "dry" shampoo or a braid shampoo. You can also mix a moisturizing shampoo with water in a spray bottle and apply directly to your scalp to remove dirt.

5.    To soothe an itchy scalp, which sometimes occurs with braiding, soak a cotton ball in an astringent like Witch Hazel and apply it to your scalp. This will also remove dirt as well.

6.    To prevent scalp burns from extended periods in the sun, then try applying a sunblock with an STP-15. This will help block the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays from your scalp, just as it does with other skin cells on your body.

7.    Remove your braids after three months time. If you let them stay in longer, you have the potential to experience hair breakage or thinning.

These simple hair braid care tips will help you keep your hair looking terrific and your style in place until your next appointment. You'll definitely agree that these little changes will make a big difference.

Want to learn how to braid like the pros? I was surprised how easy it was and you will too once you discover their 'insider' secrets. Learn how to save money on your beauty budget and even earn extra money with your new and improved braiding skills at [http://www.braid-hairstyles.com]

You can also get other hair care tips at http://braidhairstyles.blogspot.com

Hair Extensions Give a Great New Look

Hair extensions are getting very popular with people of all ages. They can be done very cheaply and easily. Hair extensions are now becoming more and more fashionable and can also be practical in everyday life. Do not color your own hair extensions at home but you can learn how to add human hair extensions, and create your own unique look.

Hair extensions offer instant volume to hair for limp tresses hair SOS or emergency relief from a disastrous haircut. Hair extensions, weaves, wigs, braiding and weaving human hair along with many ethnic hair care products are available. Hair extensions and wigs made from human hair have come a long way in recent years. Hair extensions are great additions for women to change the way their hair style and to get that hairstyle they have been wanting for some time. They allow women to extend their short hair to any varying length or even for well designed up-dos.

These extension braids can last up to three months if they are cared for correctly, they can be washed and shampooed when ever you want, One question that always is always asked is does it damage your hair. The next step is to take good care of your hair extensions and to visit your hair specialist for leveling the extensions as your natural hair grows out. Also, be sure to wash and care for the weave hair as you would your own. I do not recommend hair extensions to a 'wash and go client' they are time consuming and take a lot of care. If you do have the time to care for them I do highly recommend them.

Weave is a type of hair extension that is braided in your hair and can be inexpensive. Weave can be fake or human hair. They come in various textures and are not just for straight hair. The clips are so much easier and they add the same volume to hair as if you were wearing a full weave. The least expensive, easiest way to wear a weave is to bond it in. The end result is a long luscious hair that is comfortable to wear and virtually impossible to detect. No one will know that you are wearing an extension because there are no telltale signs. Glue is not the healthiest for the hair, but it is good for a smoother sleek look.

The clips are so much easier and they add the same volume to my hair as if I were wearing a full weave. The advantages of clip in, they're easy to maintain, very cheap, look fantastic. I love how easy it is to put them in and take them out.

Hair extensions, hair weaving, hair braiding, clip-on or clip-in extensions, hair pieces, hair attachments, hair replacement, all hair textures, high quality, human hair are some great ways to get the look you want. Go for it.

D'Ann Laws

I've been in the salon business for over thirty-five years and have managed several salons including two of my own. My mother had her own salon when I was a teen and taught me to do her perm and highlights when I was in Jr. high. That was great fun for me and I've been working in it since. I have permanent cosmetic and massage certificates and enjoyed owning a massage therapy school for a short time. The beauty business is wonderful if you enjoy working with people and I have truly loved it, and am looking forward to many more years of experiences. [http://purebeautybiz.com]

How to French Braid Hair - Top 3 French Braid Problems

If you know how to french braid hair, no doubt you have run across some difficulties. Maybe you have problems braiding hair by yourself. Some women find it difficult to know how their hair is turning out if they can not see it. Also, different hair thicknesses and coarseness lend their unique difficulties. All women are different, but I have noticed by talking to friends and from the emails I have received over the years that there are basically 3 main problems ladies run across.

Let's look at the 3 most common complaints we women have with French Braids.

1 - Getting the braids tight when dealing with fine hair

Amanda wrote to me recently, "My biggest problem is when crossing the strands. I find it hard to stay tight. With my ultra fine hair, crossing under the middle strand, or Dutch braiding, locks my hair into the braid, and it feels tight, but when I am done, it is just a little loose." This can be alleviated using a particular french braiding tool that is readily available, but you must get the right tool for your hair's thickness.

2 - Getting the braids even in the back when braiding your own hair

Aleria recently asked me, "How do you stop it from getting all loose and icky looking (her words exactly!) once you get to the back? Mine always looks fine on the top and just over the bump, but once I start going vertical it looks terrible." It is very difficult to braid tightly and evenly further away from the base of the hair. Getting a friend to help is a great way to alleviate this problem, but a partner is not always available, and do you really want your husband/boyfriend to help?

3 - Adding layers to a plain french braid

A very good friend of mine said, "I first learned how to french braid hair when I was 16 in track. I only know two styles. I don't know what they are called maybe an outside and inside french braid? Anyhow, the only question I have is how to get your layers into the braid?! I still struggle with this one." She is not the only one who struggles with some of the more complex, intricate designs.

If you are learning how to french braid hair, these are some of the common problems you may have run into.

I am just finishing up a product that will cover all aspects of French Braiding. I would love to have your input. If you will head over to http://frenchbraidhairstyles.wordpress.com/ I will give you a copy of the finished product absolutely free! See you there.

Haircuts For Wavy Hair - Did You Realize You Can Get Natural Wavy Or Curly Hair in 8 Easy Steps?

What if you don't have wavy hair? That does not mean you cannot get a haircut for wavy hair. I will show you right here how to bring out your natural curls, even if you have stick straight, or frizzy hair. Trust me, everyone can have gorgeous wavy hair. Now it's your turn.

1. Did you know that simple trim will remove your split ends? And without split ends, you don't have to worry about frizzy hair anymore. Not only that, but it will help straight hair as well, because split ends tend to drag down straight hair, preventing gorgeous curls.

2, You want to know a little secret? One simple treatment of extra-virgin olive oil will help to get your curls. About 15 - 20 minutes before you shower, comb the olive oil thoroughly through your hair, braid it, and put it under a shower cap. The heat from the shower will allow the olive oil to work more effectively, getting deep into your hair. At the end of your shower, take out the braid, and shampoo out the oil, and of course, condition as normal.

3. When you shampoo, only use a clarifying shampoo, and make sure it's clear. Only use a small amount, and use it on your scalp, as you rinse it, let it flow through the rest of your hair, this works just wonders.

4. Use only a minimum amount of conditioner on your scalp, and make sure you concentrate most of your efforts on your hair ends this will prevent them from splitting, and frizzing.

5. Don't blow dry your hair, towel dry it. But don't go all crazy with it, you want to be gentle, blot dry it, as being too rough can break your hair, and cause it to frizz.

6. Use your fingers, and gently apply a leave in conditioner.

7a. When showering in the morning, use a curl-enhancing mousse. Scrunch your hair upwards while you blow dry. Blow dry the underside of your hair if your hair is straight, this will help give your curls some volume, afterwards spritz on hairspray.

7b. Now, if you shower before bed, you will need to use a curl-enhancing gel, concentrating it on the ends of your hair, making sure it never touches the scalp, otherwise you will develop dandruff, and that would be a sight.

8a. Did you want wavy hair? Then you need to braid your hair.

8b. Is ringlets your thing? Then take 1 Inch sections of your hair, and put them into a bun, hold it together with 2 bobby pins crosswise in each bun. Sleep with some panty hose, or a soft shower cap to protect them. In the morning, remove the pins, and gently shake your hair out. Never comb or brush, you will just frizz up your hair, and ruin everything. Spritz with Hairspray.

Now that you have learned how to turn your hair from straight and limp, to curly and bouncy. There is nothing that can stop you now. Just watch as people stop in their tracks at your new gorgeous look.

Do you get a tangled mess when trying to create your own curls? Are you constantly frustrated with your hair? Maybe even a little lost? Then you need to learn more about haircuts for wavy hair You will learn that and more when you go to http://www.howtocutandstylehair.info

How to French Braid Hair - Step by Step Guide For You

When you look at a French braid, you will see that it is a beautiful style, but it is not so easy to learn. However, if you follow these steps on how to French braid hair, you will find it easy.

1. If you do not know how to braid hair, then you need to learn. French braiding consists of the basic braid and it will be hard to do if you are not able to do a basic braid.

2. Brush your hair thoroughly and get rid of any of those tangles. Comb the hair straight back.

3. Where you want the braid to start, separate three sections of the hair. You could choose to start low on your head right above your ears, or you may choose to start around your bangs. Make sure the strands of hair are separated all the way to the ends of your hair.

4. Start the braid by crossing the right strand over the middle strand.

5. After this, pick up other sections of your hair and add it to the three strands you already have and braid them in.

6. Repeat the process until you reach the end of your hair.

7. Don't forget to tie the end off so that it does not unravel and you have to do the whole process over.

8. Feel free to put hairspray so that the hair does not fall out.

As we stated, French braiding can be hard. However, with the right instructions and patience on your hand, you will be able to figure it out in no time. Take note that it is not going to be perfect and it may never be perfect, but it will still look beautiful. This is a great style for both medium and long length hair. It is perfect for casual events or sporting events.

On CoolMensHair.com Haircut Ideas, you will find hair styling tips and tons of cool hairstyles including different variations of braid styles. Choose one that suits you.

Four Types of Hair Braiding You May Not Have Heard Of

There's a wide variety of hair braiding styles out there - French braids, pigtails and so forth - but there's also a slew of styles out there that not many people know about. If you're a stylist, it's important to have lots of go-to hairstyles in your repertoire, so you can mix and match when it's time to get creative with a client's coif.

With that in mind, here are a few of the lesser-known types of braiding - styles you may not know of. But get to know them - they may impress someone into making you their permanent stylist!

Dutch Braids. Remember that episode of Star Trek where Captain Kirk ran into their doubles from a parallel universe? The Dutch braid is like the parallel-universe version of a French braid. It's also called an "underbraid," largely because the left and right sections of the braid are passed underneath the middle section instead of over the top of it. There's no better way to make passersby do a double take - they'll see something that's like a French braid, but subtly different.

Fishtail. A fishtail is a two-strand braid. To make it, divide a single section of hair in two, then lay them one-over-another like you would in a normal braid. Pull them together, so as to tighten the plait. Here's the catch: Instead of braiding them into one another, pull smaller segments off of each section and braid them across the middle, forming a herringbone pattern. This looks wonderful on someone with very long hair.

Reverse Braiding. A reverse braid is like a Dutch braid, in the sense that you're going under the middle rather than over the top. Here's the difference: Instead of following a French braid pattern, follow the pattern of a normal braid.

Braiding things into hair. This is a twist on braids, and it can be done with any of the above methods, as well as with any other braid style. Including things like ribbons, strings of pearls, or strips of colored fabric in a braid can lend a festive yet graceful touch to any hairstyle. These are popular among historical re-enactors and Renaissance faire attendees, but done right, they can look just as modern as any style on MTV. The process is simple: Just use the added material in place of a strand of the braid. So if you're making a three-strand braid, use your material and two strands of hair.

D. Michael Kirby is a freelance writer living in California. He writes about health and beauty, home improvement, travel and technology. One of his clients is Wagman Hair, one of the world's premier providers of human hair for extensions and weaves.

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