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How to Braid Cornrows Under a Wig And The Pros And Cons

Last updated Thu, Dec 7, 2023

Braided cornrows have been a staple in hairstyling for centuries, dating back to ancient African civilizations. In recent times, cornrows have transcended cultural boundaries and become a popular choice for various hairstyles, including under wigs. This article will delve into the intricate process of braiding cornrows beneath a wig, providing a step-by-step guide for achieving this stylish look. Additionally, we will explore the pros and cons of opting for cornrows as an under-wig hairstyle.

1.Some Preparations Before Braiding Cornrows

Before you start braiding cornrows, you need to do some prep work so that your braiding process goes smoothly.

Gather your supplies: Before heading out on your cornrows tour, pack the essentials like a rat tail comb, bobby pins, moisturizing products, and braided hair extensions if you want.

Pay attention to cleansing and moisturizing your hair: Start with clean, damp hair to ensure a long-lasting style. Prepare your hair for braiding with a mild shampoo and nourishing conditioner.

2.How to Braid Cornrows Under a Wig?

Below are the detailed steps for braiding cornrows step by step. Following the steps below, I believe you will fully understand the braiding process and help you to successfully braid cornrows. Braiding cornrows requires some patience. If this is your first try, don’t be afraid of failure. Remember that practice makes perfect, and repeated practice will definitely give you satisfactory results. Let’s take a look at how to braid cornrows step by step.

Step1: Sectioning

Divide the hair into neat, even sections using a rat-tail comb. The size of the sections will determine the thickness of the cornrows.

Step2:Moisturize and Detangle

Apply a leave-in conditioner or moisturizer to each section and detangle the hair using a wide-tooth comb. This step ensures smooth and knot-free braiding.

Step3:Braiding Technique

Start the cornrows by taking three small sections of hair at the beginning of the section. Cross the right section over the middle, then the left over the middle, gradually adding more hair to each section as you continue braiding.

Step4:Consistent Tension

Maintain consistent tension throughout the braiding process to ensure uniform and neat cornrows. Avoid pulling the hair too tightly to prevent discomfort and potential damage.

Step5:Secure the Ends

Once you reach the end of a cornrow, secure it with a small hair elastic or a rubber band to prevent unraveling.

Step6:Repeat

Continue the process, working your way across the sections until the entire head is cornrowed. Be patient and focused to achieve a polished and professional finish.

Step7:Optional Extensions

If you desire longer or thicker cornrows, incorporate braiding hair extensions during the process. This adds length and volume to the style.

3.The Pros and Cons of Cornrows Under a Wig

Braiding your natural hair into cornrows ensures that your natural hair is as flat as possible, allowing your wig to sit naturally and blend in seamlessly. The cornrow hairstyle also protects your natural hair as much as possible. These are the advantages of cornrow braiding. , but everything has two sides, and it also brings inevitable shortcomings. Let us take a look at what they are, so that we can consider them comprehensively and finally make the most correct decision for ourselves.

The Pons of Cornrows Under a Wig

1. Protective Styling

Cornrows serve as a protective style by keeping the natural hair tucked away beneath the wig, shielding it from environmental elements and preventing breakage.

2. Versatility

Cornrows offer versatility in styling wigs. The flat surface created by cornrows provides a smooth foundation, allowing wigs to lay flatter and more securely.

3. Longevity

Cornrows can extend the life of a wig by reducing friction and tension on the hair. This protective base minimizes the wear and tear that can occur when wigs are directly attached to natural hair.

4. Low Maintenance

Once cornrows are in place, they require minimal maintenance. This makes them an ideal choice for individuals with busy lifestyles or those seeking a long-lasting hairstyle.

The Cons of Cornrows Under a Wig

1. Tension and Discomfort

Cornrows, if braided too tightly, can cause discomfort and tension on the scalp. This may lead to headaches and, in extreme cases, hair loss. It's crucial to find a balance between a secure hold and comfort.

2. Time-Consuming

The process of braiding cornrows can be time-consuming, especially for those who are not experienced in intricate braiding techniques. Individuals should plan accordingly and allocate sufficient time for the styling process.

3. Limited Styling Options

Cornrows, once braided, limit the styling options for the natural hair beneath the wig. While the wig itself can be styled in various ways, the cornrows underneath remain relatively fixed until taken down.

4. Maintenance of Natural Hair

While cornrows protect the natural hair, maintaining moisture and cleanliness can be challenging. It's essential to develop a routine that ensures the health of the hair beneath the protective style.

Conclusion

Braiding cornrows under a wig is an art that combines tradition with modern styling. When done correctly, cornrows provide a protective and versatile base for wigs, offering benefits such as longevity, low maintenance, and added styling options. However, it's crucial to be mindful of potential drawbacks, including tension, time consumption, and limitations in styling natural hair. By understanding the steps involved and weighing the pros and cons, individuals can make informed decisions about whether cornrows under a wig align with their preferences and lifestyle. Ultimately, mastering the technique can lead to a stylish and protective hairstyle that stands the test of time.