French curl braids are a stunning choice for any occasion, from weddings and birthdays to Christmas or the office. They offer excellent protection for type 3 or 4 hair, ensuring your tresses stay safe and stylish. Perfect for all-weather wear, they’re especially great for summer vacations by the coast. French curls can be styled in numerous ways, such as knotless braids or as an extension to regular braids. Here’s everything you need to know about French curl braids, including how to achieve them and the different styles you can experiment with.
Products Needed:
- French Curl Braid Extensions
- Choose your favorite color (4 to 8 packs needed).
- Hair Food, such as coconut oil
- Loc N Gel Edge Slick Hair Brush Rat Tail Comb Satin Bonnet
WHAT ARE FRENCH CURL BRAIDS?
French curl braids feature plaited braids adorned with loose, bouncy curls. Crafted from high-quality synthetic fibers, these extensions offer a natural-looking finish that closely resembles human hair. While synthetic, they are silky and smooth, reminiscent of real hair. Popularized in the 90s by stars like Beyoncé and Brandy, this hairstyle has recently experienced a resurgence, gaining popularity on Pinterest and TikTok. French curl braids serve as a stylish and protective option suitable for any occasion.
HOW TO CREATE FRENCH CURLS
Before installing, make sure your scalp and hair are clean and well-moisturized. Apply a small amount of hair food to your French curl braid extensions to facilitate separation. Then, use a rat tail comb to divide the hair into sections of your preferred size and apply Loc N Gel styling gel to define the parts. Finally, braid the hair using either the knotless method or box braids. For added flair, consider embellishing your style with accessories like cuffs, beads, or ribbons.
HAIR REQUIRED / CHOOSING THE RIGHT HAIR
French curl braids need high-quality synthetic hair extensions, available for purchase on Amazon. Depending on the desired volume, you may need 4 to 8 packs. These synthetic extensions come pre-stretched into loose, curly braids and are straightforward to install, using techniques similar to those for box braids or knotless braids.
WHAT IS THE DURATION OF FRENCH CURL BRAIDS?
French curl braids typically last between 2 to 4 weeks. However, they are prone to tangling, so they need regular care and maintenance. Like other protective styles such as peekaboo braids and jumbo knotless braids, French curl braids require minimal upkeep.
FRENCH CURL BRAIDS STYLES
KNOTLESS FRENCH CURL BRAIDS
Unlike traditional box braids that start with a knot at the base, knotless French curl braids are designed without a knot, resulting in a smoother, seamless finish. For a more refined look, choose knotless braids over box braids.
MIXED COLORS FRENCH CURL BRAIDS
If you’re looking to elevate this hairstyle, consider experimenting with these stunning colors.
BLACK FRENCH CURL BRAIDS
Black French curl braids offer a timeless and sophisticated look that remains always in vogue. This versatile style can be adapted into various configurations, such as updos, single braids, or half-up, half-down styles.
BLONDE FRENCH CURL BRAIDS
Blonde French curl braids exude elegance and timeless charm. Experience the fun of blonde hair with this stylish and temporary protective hairstyle. The blonde hue adds a striking, eye-catching effect to the French curl braids.
SHORT FRENCH CURL BRAIDS
While short French curl braids may be less common, they remain trendy and classic. If you prefer a less voluminous and more understated look, this hairstyle is an excellent choice. Short French curl braids offer a simple yet elegant option for a refined appearance.
LAYERED FRENCH CURL BRAIDS
While short French curl braids may be less common, they remain trendy and classic. If you prefer a less voluminous and more understated look, this hairstyle is an excellent choice. Short French curl braids offer a simple yet elegant option for a refined appearance.
OMBRÉ FRENCH CURL BRAIDS
MAINTAINING YOUR FRENCH CURL BRAIDS
One major drawback of French curl braids is their tendency to tangle if not properly maintained. To keep the braids soft and tangle-free, it’s important to use hair products that help prevent this issue. I suggest applying coconut oil to your palms and then gently massaging it through your hair to keep the curls soft and manageable. With proper care, French curl braids can last between 3 to 6 weeks.
MAINTENANCE TIPS SUMMARY
- Moisturize the Scalp: Regular scalp care is crucial for keeping braided hairstyles intact and minimizing irritation from itching. Make sure to moisturize your scalp frequently.
- Use a Satin Bonnet or Silk Scarf: Protect your braids while you sleep by wearing a satin bonnet or silk scarf.
- Weekly Moisturizing: Lightly moisturize your braids once a week to keep them in good condition.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, French curl braids offer a stunning and versatile option for those looking to elevate their hairstyle game in 2024. With their beautiful, textured curls and the ability to be styled in numerous ways, they can enhance any look, from casual to formal. By following proper maintenance tips, such as moisturizing the scalp and protecting your braids at night, you can ensure that your French curl braids remain fresh and fabulous for weeks. Whether you choose a classic or trendy variation, these gorgeous braids are sure to make a lasting impression and add a touch of elegance to your hairstyle repertoire.
