bumps from tight braids

25 ATTRACTIVE NATURAL BRAIDS IN THE FRONT OF NATURAL HAIR

Natural hair is a canvas for endless creativity, and braids are a powerful tool to express that. Framing your face with stunning braids adds instant style and versatility to your look, making them perfect for natural hair styles easy to achieve. Whether you’re searching for a bold statement or a touch of delicate detail, this guide explores 25 captivating braid styles designed specifically to grace the front of your natural hair, empowering you to embrace your unique beauty.

BEST BRAIDS IN THE FRONT OF NATURAL HAIR

SCALP BRAIDS AND CORKSCREW WAVES

Try out the charming combination of half cornrows and half weave for a chic vacation look. Long wavy curls beautifully complement the front cornrows, adding to their allure. This stunning style is a hit on Instagram too. Simply divide your natural hair from ear to ear as with most hairstyles. Secure the front section with clips or ties, then braid the back section only. Finish by tucking the braid ends and applying hair extensions or a wig for added flair.

BOX BRAIDS — WITH A BANG

Box braids are a timeless protective style that can be adorned with bangs for a touch of youthful flair. This combination offers versatility, allowing you to style the bangs to frame your face or sweep them to the side for a touch of mystery.

ZIGZAG STRAIGHT BACK CORNROWS

Zigzag straight back cornrows with a heart on the side offer a unique and eye-catching twist on the classic cornrow style. The zigzag parting adds a touch of playful dimension, while the heart design incorporated near the temple injects a sweet and romantic touch. This combination is perfect for those who want a protective style that’s both stylish and full of personality.

BEAD IT UP

“Bead it Up” hair refers to a vibrant and eye-catching hairstyle that incorporates beads throughout the braids. These beads can be made from various materials like wood, metal, or plastic, and come in a vast array of colors and sizes.

Adding beads to your braids takes your hairstyle to the next level, offering endless possibilities for personalization and expression. Whether you choose to accentuate specific sections or weave them throughout your entire style, the beads add a touch of cultural flair, texture, and a playful element to your natural hair.

CORNROW BRAIDS IN THE FRONT HIGH CURLY PONYTAIL IN THE BACK

Cornrow braids in the front with a high curly ponytail in the back is a stunning and versatile hairstyle. The cornrows offer a protective style for your natural hair, while the high ponytail adds volume and drama. This combination is perfect for those who want a look that’s both stylish and practical. The curly ponytail can be styled with your natural hair or with extensions, allowing you to play with different textures and lengths. This hairstyle is perfect for any occasion, from a casual day out to a special event.

FLIP OVER BRAIDS

Don’t let the intricate design fool you – flip-over braids are the hottest new box braid style, not a geometry test! While the combination of cornrows, box braids, and optional curly pieces creates a mesmerizing pattern, you don’t need a mathematical mind to rock this look. However, be prepared to seek out a skilled braider, as the technique requires expertise to achieve the stunning, eye-catching result.

SCALP BRAIDS WITH HIGH PUFF 

This cornrow braid hairstyle is a match made in Afro-heaven for black women, especially those with 4C hair. It celebrates the beauty of textured tresses, allowing you to showcase your cornrows in all their glory. For an extra touch of vibrancy, adorn your braids with beads and accessories, or incorporate colored hair extensions to add even more visual interest. This versatile style is surprisingly easy to achieve with human hair extensions, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a head-turning look that’s both protective and effortlessly chic.

BANTU KNOTS BRAIDS

Bantu knots braids offer a unique twist on the classic Bantu knot style. Instead of simply twisting the hair sections, intricate goddess cornrows are incorporated before forming the knots, resulting in a stunningly textured look. This fusion of braids and knots creates a protective hairstyle that’s both stylish and eye-catching, perfect for those who want to add a touch of personality to their natural hair.

CREATIVE CORNROW BRAIDS

While reminiscent of simplified lemonade braids, this style offers a unique twist. Instead of intricate cornrowing patterns, it features interlaced rows created by sectioning your natural hair from the center outwards. Braiding each section with hair extensions and incorporating gold cuffs during the process creates a stunning yet straightforward look. This style requires no long hair pieces or additional techniques, making it a beautiful and achievable option for those seeking a touch of elegance without the fuss.

CLAW CLIP IT UP

Claw-clipped braided hairstyles are taking TikTok by storm, and it’s easy to see why! This versatile trend combines the beauty of braids with the convenience and style of a trendy accessory. Simply choose your favorite claw clip and use it to secure your box braids into a chic bun or create a stylish half-up, half-down look. The possibilities are endless, and the best part? You can effortlessly match your claw clip to your outfit, making it a perfect way to add a touch of personality and flair.

CORNROW BRAIDS INTO HIGH LOOSE BUN 

For those mornings when you want a gorgeous hairstyle without the fuss, look no further than the stunning combination of cornrow braids, a high loose bun, and a touch of beads. This style is perfect for 4C hair, as it allows you to embrace your natural texture while achieving a polished look. The cornrows offer protection, the high bun adds volume and style, and the beads provide a touch of personalization, all without requiring the intricate braiding techniques of other styles. This quick and easy hairstyle is a lifesaver for busy mornings and guarantees a head-turning look.

HALF UP BRAIDS

Feeling stuck in a hairstyle rut? Spice things up with a timeless classic: the half-up, half-down look. This versatile style works wonders with braided hair, allowing you to experiment with different options. Whether you gather half your braids into a chic top knot or opt for a playful, messy bun with loose curls, the half-up, half-down look is guaranteed to refresh your style and turn heads.

JUMBO CORNROWS

While jumbo cornrows might resemble dutch braids, they offer a distinct and eye-catching twist. Unlike dutch braids which result in two prominent braids, jumbo cornrows create multiple, thick braids that frame the face beautifully. These chunky braids not only save you precious styling and maintenance time but also offer a low-maintenance, effortless look that suits various occasions.

SIMPLE FULANI BRAIDS

Simple Fulani braids are a stylish and easy-to-create hairstyle that originates from the Fulani people of West Africa. These braids typically feature a central cornrow or braided line running from the front to the back of the head, with smaller cornrows or braids on either side. They often incorporate decorative elements such as beads, cowrie shells, or colorful thread for added flair. Fulani braids are versatile and can be adapted to suit different hair lengths and textures. This classic yet trendy hairstyle is popular for its cultural significance and eye-catching aesthetic, making it a favorite choice for many people seeking a chic and distinctive look.

ASYMMETRICAL LOB

The asymmetrical lob is a modern and stylish haircut that’s shorter in the back and longer in the front. “Lob” stands for “long bob.” This trendy hairstyle adds an edgy twist to the classic bob haircut, giving it a contemporary and dynamic look. The asymmetrical cut creates a flattering frame for the face, drawing attention to the features while providing a sense of movement and dimension. It’s a versatile style that can be customized to suit different face shapes and hair textures. Whether worn sleek and straight or with textured waves, the asymmetrical lob offers a chic and fashionable option for those looking to switch up their look with a touch of flair.

MESSY BUN

The messy bun reigns supreme as a timeless and universally flattering hairstyle. Its effortless charm lies in its relaxed and textured look, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you have long, flowing locks or shorter, layered hair, a messy bun can be easily achieved and styled to your preference. The beauty of the messy bun lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal effort and styling products, making it a go-to option for busy mornings or lazy days. This hairstyle boasts incredible versatility, allowing you to dress it up or down depending on your needs.

HALF CORNROWS HALF CURLS WITH BEADS

Half cornrows, half curls with beads is a hairstyle that consistently reigns supreme in the world of trendy looks. The captivating combination of intricate cornrow patterns framing the face seamlessly blends into long, flowing natural waves, creating a stunning visual contrast. Adding beads to the braids injects a touch of personality and flair, making the style even more eye-catching. For an extra touch of charm, the curls can be further styled into soft locs, adding a playful and joyful dimension to the overall look. This hairstyle is guaranteed to turn heads and garner appreciation for its unique blend of beauty and versatility.

JUMBO BRAID

For a simple yet impactful hairstyle, consider gathering your box braids into a single giant plait. Whether you choose a side-swept or a bundled-back look, this style offers two major benefits: Firstly, it instantly elevates your look with a touch of main-character energy. Secondly, it keeps your braids neatly tucked away from your face, making it perfect for days when you want to highlight your features without the distraction of loose strands.

HALF-CORNROWS HALF-BRAIDS UPDO

The half-cornrows half-braids updo is a stylish and creative hairstyle that combines two different braiding techniques. In this hairstyle, the top section of the hair is styled into cornrows, while the bottom section is braided. This unique combination creates a striking contrast and adds visual interest to the hairdo. The cornrows can be arranged in various patterns, such as straight back or zigzag, while the braids at the bottom can be left loose or gathered into an updo. This versatile hairstyle is perfect for both casual and formal occasions, and it can be customized with accessories like beads or hair cuffs for added flair. Overall, the half-cornrows half-braids updo offers a trendy and eye-catching look that is sure to turn heads.

SKY HIGH PONYTAIL

The sky-high ponytail is a fun and trendy hairstyle where the hair is pulled up high on the head, creating a sleek and dramatic look. This style involves gathering all the hair together and securing it with an elastic band at the crown of the head, lifting the ponytail upward towards the sky. The key to achieving this hairstyle is to smooth out any bumps or lumps in the hair and use hairspray or gel to keep it sleek and polished. The sky-high ponytail adds height and volume to the hair, making it a bold and statement-making choice for any occasion. Whether worn casually or dressed up for a special event, this hairstyle is sure to make a striking impression.

SCALP CORNROWS WITH HIGH CURLY PONYTAIL

Check out this stylish combination of cornrow braids, a high curly ponytail, and two front side pieces! These adorable cornrow braids leading into a high ponytail are simple to create, even if you’re doing it yourself. You can opt to braid the ponytail itself, giving it a fun protective style, or leave some strands of hair loose on the sides for a playful touch. This look adds a youthful and pretty vibe to your overall appearance, perfect for any occasion!

CURLY PONYTAIL

LOW PONYTAIL FOR STITCH CORNROWS

The low ponytail for stitch cornrows is a stylish and practical hairstyle that combines the sleekness of stitch cornrows with the simplicity of a low ponytail. In this hairstyle, the hair is braided into neat and tight stitch cornrows close to the scalp. Once the cornrows are complete, the remaining hair is gathered and secured into a ponytail positioned low at the nape of the neck. This hairstyle is not only chic and trendy but also functional, keeping the hair out of the face and off the neck. It’s a versatile look that can be worn for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. Plus, it’s easy to maintain and can last for several days, making it a convenient choice for those with busy schedules.

SIDE PART BRAIDS

Side part braids are a stylish and easy-to-create hairstyle that adds flair to your look. In this hairstyle, the hair is parted on one side of the head, creating a distinct and asymmetrical appearance. From there, small sections of hair are braided neatly and tightly, either hanging freely or gathered into a ponytail or bun. Side part braids are versatile and can be customized to suit different hair lengths and textures. They are perfect for various occasions, from casual days out to special events, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance to your overall style. Plus, they are a practical choice for keeping hair out of your face while still looking fashionable.

CORNROWS IN DIFFERENT SIZES

Cornrows in different sizes offer a stylish and versatile way to braid your hair. With this hairstyle, you can mix and match various sizes of cornrows to create a unique and eye-catching look. Some cornrows can be thin and close together, while others can be thicker and spaced farther apart. This variation adds texture and visual interest to your hairdo, allowing you to express your individual style. Whether you prefer a simple and subtle appearance or a more bold and intricate design, cornrows in different sizes can be tailored to suit your preferences. This hairstyle is suitable for various occasions and can be adorned with beads, cuffs, or other accessories for added flair. Overall, cornrows in different sizes are a fun and creative way to showcase your personality through your hair.

CONCLUSION

With a diverse range of 25 stunning braids designed specifically to flatter the front of your natural hair, the possibilities for self-expression are endless. From intricate braids and goddess braids to playful half-up, half-down hairstyles and protective updos, these hairstyles offer the perfect combination of beauty, versatility, and practicality. Feel free to get creative with your hairstyle, as hair masks for curly hair and products are here to help enhance your look. So next time you’re looking for a new hairstyle, remember the transformative power of braids – the perfect accessory to showcase your natural beauty in a whole new light.

12 STYLISH HAIR TWISTS FOR MEN IN 2024

Twists remain a popular and practical choice for men with afro-textured hair. Offering a stylish appearance while minimizing maintenance, twists are a versatile hairstyle that can be worn on both short and long hair.

This protective style falls into three main categories:

  • Dreadlock Twists: For those seeking a more textured and defined look.
  • Loose Hair Twists: Suitable for both thick and thin hair, offering a variety of styles.
  • Sponge Twists: A popular option for short hair, creating a defined and textured appearance.

TRIANGLE TWISTS

While boxes are the traditional parting system for twists and braids, triangle parts offer a distinctive and visually appealing alternative. 

The twisting technique remains the same, with the key difference being in the placement of the roots.

Triangle parts create a unique and noticeable style that sets them apart from traditional box-part twists.

SPONGE TWISTS

Twists aren’t just for those with long hair. Men with shorter hair can also achieve this stylish look using a sponge twisting technique.

The sponge, designed with multiple holes, is ideal for curling and twisting natural hair. For short hair, this is a great way to achieve a desired style. Remember to start with damp hair, apply a leave-in conditioner, and rotate the sponge throughout your hair.

Pairing short hair twists with a taper fade or shape-up can create a modern and sophisticated look.

BLEACHED TWISTS

For those seeking to make a statement, bleached twists offer a bold and attention-grabbing variation of this hairstyle.

There are several bleaching options to consider:

  • Bleaching the Ends: A subtle yet stylish way to add a touch of color.
  • Bleaching a Few Strands: A more textured look with strategically placed highlights.
  • Bleaching the Whole Head: A dramatic and eye-catching transformation.

While bleaching can be done at home, it’s highly recommended to entrust this process to a professional hairstylist. This will help prevent damage to your hair and ensure optimal results.

THICK TWISTS

To create thick twists, simply use more hair than usual when starting the twisting process. This will result in a fuller and more voluminous look.

Thick twists are a versatile style that suits a wide range of hair types and textures. They are also relatively easy to achieve, making them accessible to most people with basic braiding skills.

One of the advantages of using more hair for twists is that the braiding process is often quicker than with thinner twists.

TWO STRAND TWISTS (ON DREADLOCKS)

Two strand twists have become a staple hairstyle for men with afro-textured hair, renowned for their simplicity, protective qualities, and distinctive rope-like appearance. This style offers the convenience of lasting up to six weeks, making it a popular choice for busy individuals.

Rappers like Lil Durk and Lil Wayne have played a significant role in popularizing two strand twists, incorporating them into their signature looks.

Often used as a post-wash styling technique for dreadlocks, two strand twists involve taking two locs and wrapping them around each other, securing the ends with rubber bands. It’s important to note that this style can cause hair shrinkage, so the final length may not accurately reflect the true length of your hair.

TWIST OUT (ON DREADLOCKS)

One of the many benefits of two strand twists is the stunning twist out that results when you unravel your dreadlocks. This style is achieved by tightly twisting your hair for several weeks and then allowing it to unravel, creating a voluminous and textured look. The video above showcases a beautiful twist out achieved after a six-week period.

The twist out typically lasts for four to five days before requiring restyling. This versatile style is a favorite among men with afro-textured hair.

If your hair is long enough, you have the flexibility to wear it up or down, allowing you to customize your look to your preference.

TWO STRAND TWISTS (ON LOOSE CURLY HAIR)

While two strand twists are commonly associated with dreadlocks, they can also be a stylish option for loose curly hair. The main difference is that the hair may not appear as long as it would on dreads. However, you have the flexibility to style these twists thick or thin to suit your preference.

For optimal results, it’s recommended to consult with a hairstylist who can provide personalized guidance and ensure proper technique.

If you’re looking for a quick tutorial, follow these steps:

  1. Prepare Your Hair: Wash and condition your hair thoroughly for a smooth process.
  2. Section Your Hair: Part your hair in the middle and divide it into four equal sections. Secure the unused sections with hair pins.
  3. Damp Hair is Essential: Ensure your hair is damp before starting the twisting process.
  4. Twist Two Strands: Take two strands of hair and twist them around each other.
  5. Continue Twisting: Continue twisting all the way to the ends of your hair and secure them with a rubber band.
  6. Set with Spray: Lightly spritz your hair with a setting spray to help the twists hold.

For more detailed instructions and visual demonstrations, we recommend watching tutorials on YouTube or consulting with a professional hairstylist.

TWIST OUT ON LOOSE CURLY HAIR

After keeping your two strand twists in your loose curly hair for a period of time, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful twist out.

To begin, gently dampen your hair before carefully unraveling the twists, starting from the ends. As you work your way up, you’ll notice your hair forming a curly pattern. This is a direct result of the twisting process. For tighter curls, unravel each coil only slightly.

To expedite the process and add volume, you can use a comb to gently lift the roots. This will enhance the definition and fullness of your curls.

HIGH-TOP TWISTS

The high-top hairstyle, characterized by its shaved sides and long top, is instantly recognizable. Adding twists to this classic style creates a truly unique and eye-catching look.

To create high-top twists, slightly dampen your hair with hairspray and use a sponge to rotate it around your hair. The level of aggression you use will determine the thickness of your twists. This technique is often used as a starting point for dreadlocks.

THIN TWISTS

In contrast to thick twists, thin twists require significantly more patience and precision. The process is time-consuming but ultimately rewarding.

While thin twists may demand more maintenance than thicker styles, they offer a visually appealing alternative that can provide a refreshing break from the bulkier look.

FLAT TWISTS

Flat twists combine the elements of two strand twists and cornrows into a single hairstyle. To achieve this look, two strands of hair are twisted together and then laid flat against the scalp, creating a rope-like braid.

Unlike traditional two strand twists, which are typically performed off the scalp, flat twists are installed directly on the scalp, hence the name. This style offers a refreshing alternative to traditional cornrows.

TWISTS WITH UNDERCUT

Similar to high-top twists, undercut twists feature a distinctive contrast between long hair on top and shorter hair on the sides and back. However, the undercut style involves a more dramatic cut, with the hair on the sides and back gradually tapering down to nothing around the ears and neck. This creates a noticeable difference between the top and sides.

The undercut haircut provides a foundation for natural, curly hair, adding length and volume. By incorporating twists into this style, you can create a completely unique and eye-catching look. Twists can be two-strand, three-strand, twist-outs, or sponge twists, allowing you to choose the style that best suits your preferences.

HOW TO TWIST HAIR

While visuals can be helpful, here’s a written guide to assist you in twisting medium or long hair:

  1. Part Your Hair: Divide your hair into four equal sections by parting it in the middle and across.
  2. Secure Sections: Secure the sections you’re not working on with hair pins.
  3. Dampen Your Hair: Lightly spritz your hair with a liquid spray to dampen it.
  4. Start Twisting: Begin twisting two strands of hair around each other in a hand-over-hand motion. Continue until each strand resembles a rope.
  5. Complete the Twists: Twist all the way down to the ends of your hair and secure them with rubber bands. Note that fine hair may unravel more easily due to its lack of grip.
  6. Set with Spray: Once you’ve completed all the twists, lightly spritz your hair with a setting spray to help them hold.

HOW TWISTS FOR MEN SHOULD BE MAINTAINED

Twists are a fantastic protective hairstyle that can last up to six weeks. To maximize their duration and ensure your hair remains healthy, it’s essential to follow a proper maintenance routine. Here are some simple tips to keep your twists looking great and minimize damage:

  • Make sure Twists aren’t too tight

If you experience pain from tight twists, consider it a warning sign from your scalp. Tight twists can lead to damage, bumps, infected follicles, and even temporary or permanent hair loss. While it’s normal for twists to feel slightly tight initially, persistent or worsening tightness is a cause for concern. If you notice this, it’s important to loosen or redo your twists to avoid potential complications.

  • Moisturize your scalp

Even with a protective hairstyle like twists, moisturizing your scalp remains essential. Proper scalp care helps maintain defined, healthy, and hydrated twists.

The market offers a wide range of natural hair products, so take the time to find one that best suits your hair’s needs. Regular moisturizing will contribute to the overall health and longevity of your twists.

  • Oil your Scalp

Regular scalp oiling offers numerous benefits, including preventing breakage, reducing growth fatigue, restoring moisture, protecting strands, and improving blood circulation. These factors contribute to a healthy scalp, which is essential for optimal hair growth.

To reap these benefits, incorporate weekly scalp massages into your hair care routine. This simple practice can stimulate the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

  • Protect your twists while at Night

Sleeping with your hair unwrapped can expose it to friction from your pillowcase, leading to breakage and dryness. For those with afro-textured hair, using a head wrap or durag at night is a common and effective way to protect your twists and maintain their health.

  • Ensure you take your Hair out every 6 Weeks

While twists offer a protective style, it’s essential to remember that your hair still needs to breathe. Washing your twists every six weeks is a recommended practice for maintaining good hygiene.

Over time, your twists will be exposed to dirt and environmental factors, making regular cleaning necessary. This can be done at home or by a professional hairstylist.