What are wavy micro braids and the best hairstyles to try?

With so many braiding styles to choose from, it can be tough to settle on just one. However, as among all-time favorites, micro braids definitely take the spotlight. If you are aiming for a long-lasting protective hairstyle that will elevate your aesthetic, then wavy micro braids are the way to go. Micro braids can protect your hair while still allowing you to treat and style it as you normally would, thanks to their thinness.

If you are on the hunt for a stylish and protective hairdo, look no further because we will get you covered with all the essential information about wavy micro braids. Whether your hair is dark brown or ash blonde, this style will capture your heart and leave you wanting more. Let’s discover!

Micro braids can protect your hair while still allowing you to treat and style it. (Source: Hair Adviser)
Micro braids can protect your hair while still allowing you to treat and style it. (Source: Hair Adviser)

What are micro braids?

Micro braids are tiny braids that are often resemble thick strands of hair. Therefore, it is no surprise that installing micro braids can take hours, and removing them can be an even lengthier process. 

However, the time and effort invested in achieving this look are truly worthwhile because micro braids offer versatility that is hard to find in other braid styles. The thinness of the braids allows you to treat and style them like your natural hair.

When installing micro braids, with your own hair or extensions, only use a few strands at a time. This characteristic makes micro braids much lighter than other protective styles like box braids or faux locs. 

The advantage of their lightweight nature is that you can style the braids as regular strands of hair. Feel free to experiment with different styles such as curls using a curling iron, incorporating additional braids, creating buns, or styling them into ponytails. 

The thinness of the braids allows you to treat and style them like your natural hair. (Source: Pinterest)
The thinness of the braids allows you to treat and style them like your natural hair. (Source: Pinterest)

Top wavy micro braid hairstyles to try

Ballerina Bun

To start, collect all your braids together at the crown of your head and secure them with an elastic to create a ponytail. If your braids are thick, you should opt for a shoelace instead of an elastic to avoid any potential snapping. 

After securing the ponytail, begin wrapping your braids around each other to form a bun. As you wrap the braids, use bobby pins to hold the style in place as you progress.

If your braids are thick, you should opt for a shoelace instead of an elastic. (Source: All Things Hair)
If your braids are thick, you should opt for a shoelace instead of an elastic. (Source: All Things Hair)

Fishtail Braid

One of the wonderful aspects of micro braids is the ability to style them in various ways, and you can incorporate them into another intricate plait. To start, gather all your micro braids into a loose ponytail and secure them with an elastic. Then, divide the ponytail into two equal sections. 

To achieve a fishtail effect, take a half-inch section of hair from the outer part of the left section and cross it over to the right section. Repeat the process on the opposite side. Take a section from the outer part of the right section and crossing it over to the left.

Continue crossing sections from opposite sides until you reach the end of the braid. Secure the style with an elastic or a small clear rubber band, and then remove the elastic from the nape of the neck. To add a final touch, you can tug on the sides of the braid to create a voluminous effect, commonly known as pancaking.

To add a final touch, you can tug on the sides of the braid to create a voluminous effect. (Source: Steal Her Style)
To add a final touch, you can tug on the sides of the braid to create a voluminous effect. (Source: Steal Her Style)

Face Framing Twists

This effortless yet charming hairstyle will keep your hair off your face and takes only a few seconds to achieve. Start by creating a middle parting in your braids, then focus on one side of your hair at a time, begin flat twisting your braids until you reach the upper part of your ear. 

Finally, use a few bobby pins to secure the twists in place, and then repeat the same process on the other side.

This charming hairstyle will keep your hair off your face. (Source: Tuko News)
This charming hairstyle will keep your hair off your face. (Source: Tuko News)

Curly Braids

For a special occasion, curling your micro braids will enhance your overall look. 

If you have incorporated human hair into your hairstyle, you can curl your hair using the same techniques you normally use. And it is when your hair wasn’t braided. On the other hand, if you have used synthetic hair, it is crucial to check if the hair is heat resistant before proceeding. If the synthetic hair is indeed heat resistant, you can utilize a curling iron to curl your braids.

Before curling, ensure that your hair is thoroughly dampened. Curling wet hair helps prevent the synthetic hair from melting and allows your curls to last longer. Once your hair is saturated, take one-inch sections of hair and curl them until they are gently heated through. 

Synthetic hair has excellent holding capabilities. Therefore, once you have curled your entire head, there is no need to set your style with hairspray. Your curls will stay intact for hours.

If you have incorporated human hair into your hairstyle, you can curl your hair using the same techniques. (Source: StyleCraze)
If you have incorporated human hair into your hairstyle, you can curl your hair using the same techniques. (Source: StyleCraze)

Cornrowed Crown

For any occasion, this wavy micro braids style will lend an elegant touch to your micro braids. To begin, create a deep side part near your ear, either on the right or left side of your head. After parting your hair, initiate a simple cornrow that encircles the crown of your head. Keep braiding until you reach a point where the braid has circled your entire head, reaching back to the deep parting. 

If your braids are long, continue braiding any loose hair until you reach the ends of your strands. Wrap the remaining hair around the crown braid and secure any stray strands with a few bobby pins.

Cornrowed crown will lend an elegant touch to your micro braids. (Source: Hair Adviser)
Cornrowed crown will lend an elegant touch to your micro braids. (Source: Hair Adviser)

Sky High Ponytail

To achieve this effortless style, you only need a sturdy elastic or shoelace. Start by gathering all of your hair at the top of your head. If you find it hard to hold your hair while preparing to tie your ponytail, simply flip your head over and let gravity assist you. 

Once you have gathered your hair in the desired position, secure it with an elastic or shoelace. For an added touch of polish, take a few micro braids from the lower part of your ponytail and wrap them around the elastic. Use a bobby pin to secure any loose strands of hair.

To achieve sky high ponytail style, you only need a sturdy elastic or shoelace. (Source: medisur)
To achieve sky high ponytail style, you only need a sturdy elastic or shoelace. (Source: medisur)

Faux Fringe

Once you have completed the installation of your micro braids, it is recommended to avoid cutting them until you are ready to remove the braids. 

However, if you are longing for bangs but did not include them in your original style, there is still a way to achieve the look without committing to a haircut. This faux side-swept bang can be created within seconds and gives the illusion of real bangs.

To begin, separate a section of hair that is approximately 2 to 3 inches wide from the front of your head. Allow the sectioned-off micro braids to fall in front of your face and sweep them to either the left or right side of your head. 

Position the braids across your forehead to achieve your desired faux fringe appearance, and secure the remaining hair behind your ear with a pin. Finally, release the rest of your hair to cover the pinned section behind your ear, and no one will suspect that those bangs are not the result of a haircut.

This faux side-swept bang can be created within seconds and gives the illusion of real bangs. (Source: eBay)
This faux side-swept bang can be created within seconds and gives the illusion of real bangs. (Source: eBay)

Half-Up Top Knot

The half-up top knot is an ideal choice for a fun and relaxed girls’ night out. To achieve this look, gather all the hair from the front half of your head and create a high ponytail on the top of your head. Once you have secured the ponytail, proceed to wrap your braids around each other to form a bun. 

For larger buns, utilize bobby pins to secure the style as you wrap the braids. In the case of smaller buns, you can employ a second elastic to hold it in place once you have finished styling.

The half-up top knot is an ideal choice for a fun and relaxed night out. (Pinterest)
The half-up top knot is an ideal choice for a fun and relaxed night out. (Pinterest)

Wet And Wavy Micro Braids

The wet and wavy micro braids style is a stunning choice that exudes effortless elegance. This particular look combines the beauty of micro braids with the allure of wet and wavy hair. It will create a captivating and natural-looking hairstyle that is perfect for various occasions.

To achieve this style, start by thoroughly wetting your micro braids. You can dampen them with water or use a water-based hair product to create the wet effect. Once your braids are damp, gently scrunch them to enhance the wavy texture. 

The wet and wavy micro braids style combines the beauty of micro braids with the allure of wet and wavy hair. (Source: Ultimate Hair World)
The wet and wavy micro braids style combines the beauty of micro braids with the allure of wet and wavy hair. (Source: Ultimate Hair World)

How do you care for wavy micro braids?

With micro braids, you have the flexibility to experiment with various styles. Enjoy the versatility and try out different micro braid hairstyles with the following caring practices:

  • To care for micro braids, proper installation is crucial. Avoid getting them installed too tightly to prevent discomfort and potential hair loss. In addition, take breaks from styles that pull on your hair to prevent traction alopecia.
  • For long-lasting micro braids, wash your hair while it is braided. Shampoo gently once a week and use a hydrating conditioner on the midlength and ends. Clarify your scalp and braids every other week with a pre-shampoo scalp treatment and a clarifying shampoo.
  • Ensure your braids are completely dry before styling to avoid scalp issues. You can use a blow dryer or hooded dryer if necessary. To soothe a dry or irritated scalp, use a calming scalp lotion with nourishing ingredients.

FAQs

How long does it take to do microbraids?

On average, it takes several hours or multiple sessions over a day. The time needed for micro braids can vary based on factors like your hair’s length and thickness, the size of the braids, and the stylist’s expertise. 

How long do micro braids last?

Micro braids can be worn from one day to up to eight weeks, depending on how well you care for them. Proper maintenance can extend their lifespan. It is important not to exceed eight weeks. But it is recommended to consult your stylist, as they can assess if it is safe to keep them in longer or if it is time for removal.

Do micro braids pull out hair?

No, when done correctly and maintained well, micro braids should not excessively pull out hair. However, tightly braided or poorly cared for braids can cause tension and potentially lead to hair breakage. Communicate your comfort with your stylist and take breaks from styles that strain your hair.

How much do micro braids usually cost?

Generally, prices of micro braids range from $100 to $500, depending on factors like the condition of your hair and the desired length of the style. But the cost can vary depending on the salon you choose. 

Micro braids can be worn from one day to up to eight weeks, depending on how well you care for them. (Source: lmpoman)
Micro braids can be worn from one day to up to eight weeks, depending on how well you care for them. (Source: lmpoman)

To Conclude

Wavy micro braids are a trendy and versatile hairstyle that combines the beauty of waves with the elegance of braids. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for weeks, allowing you to experiment with various hairstyles. Whether you prefer half-up styles, updos, or accessorized braids, wavy micro braids offer endless possibilities.

If you are interested in trying wavy micro braids or need high-quality hair extensions for your braiding journey, contact Jen Hair. Our range of hair extension options can help you achieve the perfect wavy micro braid look!

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