You've been scrolling through Pinterest and Instagram, admiring those gorgeous Ghana Braids, but find yourself struggling to recreate them? Don't fret, lovely readers! As your Afro hair expert, I'm here to spill all the secrets and provide you with the ultimate tips to achieve flawless, head-turning Ghana Braids.
So what exactly are Ghana braids? Also known as tresses écailles in French, or banana braids, banana cornrow, cherokee cornrow, invisible cornrow, or feed-in braids, this hairstyle refers to a 3D laid braiding technique. This method requires the continuous addition of extensions during braiding to create the illusion of fish scales. This hairstyle style originates from West Africa, mainly Ghana, and can be worn by women of all ages. It is also very popular in the United States. You've probably already seen this hairstyle on a certain Kim Kardashian, by the way. And obviously, Ghana braids are not easy to do, at least not for a beginner like me. So I suggest you learn a simple and effective technique to achieve beautiful Ghana braids. Let's go!
1. First, buy a pack of extensions: obvious but essential!
2. Next, separate half of the pack into 4 (for 4 braids). Each braid contains 8 strands. One of the strands is separated into 4 small strands. These will be used at the beginning of the braid.
3. It is preferable to work on blow-dried hair.
4. Isolate a small section of hair at the front of the section that will serve as a strand for the braid. Place a small extension strand at the beginning of the section. Braid 7 times.
5. Add a small extension strand on top of the braid. Instead of braiding the entire extension, release one side, braid twice, add the remaining extension strand into the braid, then braid twice.
6. Braid twice then add the extension until you reach your nape. Then make a simple braid.
7. When you have finished braiding, place the ends in boiling water. Be careful not to burn yourself. Then cut the ends to even out the extensions.
And there you have it, your hairstyle should now last between 2 to 3 weeks. A little tip: don't try to keep your Ghana braids longer because your hair will start to come out of your braiding and then, beware of breakage! Moreover, if you shampoo your hair, your hairstyle will tend to loosen much faster. So 3 weeks, maximum ladies!
To avoid disaster when it's time to remove your precious Ghana braids, continue to hydrate your hair well in the days leading up to your braiding. Yes, before braiding, prepare your scalp beforehand by providing it with appropriate care so that it can withstand hair manipulation.
I also recommend doing a mask when you remove your braids. Then give your scalp a few days to breathe before considering a new hairstyle.
You now have all the keys to successfully achieve your Ghana braids!
Photo credits: Pinterest and Olivia Rose
