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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.

15 BEST FLAT IRONS FOR THICK HAIR

Taming thick hair can be a battle, but with the right flat iron, you can achieve sleek, straight locks that last. In this guide, we’ll unveil the best flat irons designed to conquer thick hair, so you can ditch the frizz and achieve salon-worthy smoothness at home.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FLAT IRON FOR THICK HAIR

PLATE MATERIAL

Selecting the ideal flat iron tailored to your hair type can transform your styling routine. For those with dry, thin, or damaged hair, ceramic plates or ceramic-coated plates are recommended. These plates heat up evenly from within, gliding smoothly without pulling or causing frizz. Conversely, if you have thicker or curlier hair, titanium plates are the go-to option, capable of reaching high temperatures and distributing heat evenly. Tourmaline is another excellent choice, enhancing ceramic plates for seamless gliding while reducing tension and minimizing damage. Hence, it’s essential to choose your plate material wisely to suit your hair’s unique needs.

TEMPERATURE SETTINGS

Temperature settings play a crucial role when using hot tools on thick or textured hair. Look for flat irons with higher temperature settings to effectively smooth and style coarse strands. Adjustable and precise heat settings are essential to avoid damage from excessive heat exposure. Starting with a lower heat setting and gradually increasing it is recommended to prevent potential hair damage. Finding the right temperature balance is key to achieving optimal styling results while protecting your hair.

PLATE SIZE

Consider the plate size when shopping for a flat iron for thick hair. Wider plates, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches, cover more surface area for quicker and more efficient styling. Larger plates ensure superior heat distribution, reducing the risk of damage from hot spots. Opting for broader plates is especially beneficial for those with thicker hair, allowing for flawless, smooth results without subjecting your strands to excessive heat.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

When choosing the best flat iron for thick hair, consider additional features that can enhance your styling experience. A swivel cord prevents tangling and makes maneuvering effortless, ensuring every hair section receives the necessary heat treatment. An auto shut-off function is essential for safety, automatically turning off the flat iron after a period of inactivity to minimize fire hazards or burns. Opting for a model with universal voltage ensures consistent heat performance while traveling internationally, catering to different voltage systems in various countries and ensuring effective styling results wherever you go.

TOP FLAT IRONS FOR THICK HAIR

BABYLISS PRO NANO TITANIUM OPTIMA 3000 1.25″ FLAT IRON WITH TITANIUM PLATES

The BABYLISS PRO Nano Titanium Optima 3000 is the best flat iron for both thick and fine hair. Its titanium plates heat up quickly and stay warm for efficient straightening. You can also use it to create waves or curls easily.

Safety is essential with this flat iron. It has silicone tips to protect your hair, and there’s a special attachment that works like a curling iron, perfect for making curls or waves. Plus, it has five heat settings from 300 to 465 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can choose the right temperature for your hair type. It’s a great choice for taming thick hair because of its versatility and safety features.

T3 LUCEA FLAT IRON

T3’s Lucea flat iron has received enthusiastic praise for its ability to effortlessly transform thick hair into smooth, glossy, straight strands with just one pass. Engineered with wider ceramic plates measuring one-and-a-half inches, it’s specifically tailored to tackle the challenges of thick hair without causing breakage. Its integrated microchip technology oversees rapid start-up, ensures even heating across the plates, and maintains stability across its nine temperature settings.

With a maximum temperature of 410 degrees Fahrenheit and ceramic plates, it offers optimal heat for effective styling. The inclusion of an auto shut-off feature enhances safety, while the nine heat settings cater to various hair types and preferences. Designed with the needs of thick, curly, and voluminous hair in mind, its microchip technology guarantees precise heat control and uniform heat distribution throughout the tool. Additionally, its 360-degree 8-foot swivel cord enhances maneuverability during styling sessions.

HSI PROFESSIONAL CERAMIC TOURMALINE IONIC FLAT IRON

The HSI Professional Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron stands out as an excellent option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-performing hair straightener. It comes with valuable accessories like a heat protective glove and argan oil, adding further value to its affordable price point. Users have praised its performance, reflected in its high ratings on Amazon.

Equipped with multiple heat settings and the ability to create both straight and wavy styles, this flat iron offers versatility comparable to more expensive models. However, some users have noted that the LCD screen can be confusing when powering down, presenting a minor drawback to an otherwise commendable device.

Despite this minor issue, the HSI Professional Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron stands out as a top choice on Amazon, offering a balance of affordability and performance that makes it a standout option for users seeking quality styling results without breaking the bank.

CHI LAVA 2.0 FLAT IRON

If you have wavy hair that tends to frizz easily, then Drybar’s flat iron might be the perfect solution for you. This ergonomic straightener features ionic technology to fight frizz and 0.5-inch titanium plates that heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The separate temperature controls for each plate allow for customized styling to minimize damage.

Despite the smaller plate size, which may seem like a drawback for straightening speed, you only need one or two passes to achieve your desired look.  This flat iron also doubles as a curling iron thanks to its rounded plates, giving you the option to add waves or movement to your hair after straightening. While the price tag might be a bit steep at $190, this versatile tool offers two styling options in one and boasts a convenient, compact design that’s perfect for travel.

CHI ORIGINAL CERAMIC HAIR STRAIGHTENER

The Chi Original Ceramic Hair Straightener offers a compelling combination of features that make it a strong contender for anyone in need of a reliable styling tool. Boasting ceramic plates, it ensures even heat distribution, safeguarding against potential hair damage, particularly beneficial for those with color-treated or heat-sensitive hair. Its adjustable heat settings, reaching up to 400°F (204°C), provide versatility in styling while minimizing the risk of heat-related harm. The straightforward design simplifies the styling process, catering to both novices and seasoned users alike. Moreover, its budget-friendly price point makes it an attractive option compared to pricier alternatives, offering quality performance without breaking the bank.

DRYBAR RESERVE DUAL-PLATE STYLING IRON

Eva NYC introduces a specialized flat iron tailored for individuals with fine, color-treated, or delicate hair, offering a gentler alternative to high-heat styling. Crafted with ceramic plates, it ensures even heat distribution, safeguarding fragile strands from potential damage caused by hot spots. The adjustable heat settings, spanning from 200°F to 450°F, provide flexibility in styling while minimizing the risk of heat-induced harm. Additionally, the flat iron emits negative ions as it glides through the hair, smoothing the cuticle and reducing frizz for a healthy, shiny finish. Its compact 1.25-inch plate size facilitates easy maneuverability, especially for styling shorter hair sections. However, some users have noted challenges with adjusting the temperature dial, and the floral print design may not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.

CONAIR THE KNOT DR. ALL-IN-ONE SMOOTHING DRYER BRUSH, HAIR DRYER & HOT AIR BRUSH

With a height of just eight inches, this compact flat iron has earned nearly four thousand enthusiastic reviews across various online platforms. Its half-inch ceramic plates can reach temperatures up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, making it versatile for adding volume at the roots, straightening hair, or creating waves. One of its standout features is its convenient size, perfect for slipping into your travel tote alongside your makeup essentials for your next journey.

In terms of specifications, it boasts a fixed temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit and utilizes ceramic plates measuring 0.5 inches. While it lacks an auto shut-off feature, it compensates with a power indicator light, a 6-foot cord, and dual voltage capabilities, ensuring practicality and adaptability for travelers.

Priced at $26.99 upon publication, this flat iron has garnered praise for its ease of use and lightweight design. However, it’s worth noting that it offers only one heat setting, which may be a limitation for users with specific styling preferences or hair types.

GHD PLATINUM+ STYLER

The Dyson Airstrait Straightener is new but already popular for its great performance. It’s special because it uses airflow to help style hair. It can dry and straighten your hair at the same time, saving you from using two different tools.

This straightener is smart too. It keeps track of how hot it’s getting and makes sure it doesn’t get too hot by checking every 30 seconds. It also fights frizz and keeps hair looking healthy by using negative ions. You can do more than just straighten your hair with it. You can use it to add volume by using it on the roots. It’s also easy to use with its different temperature options and cordless design. Plus, it turns off by itself when you’re not using it, which is handy.

People who have it say they can style their hair in just 10-15 minutes, which is super quick. Even though it’s a bit expensive, it’s worth it for how well it works and how easy it is to use.

BEACHWAVER CO. CATWALK COÁT PRO CERAMIC FLAT IRON

If your hair is damaged but you still want it to look smooth and straight, you might find the YA-MAN flat iron helpful. It’s different from regular flat irons because it uses red light therapy and moisture pulse technology, which are gentle on dry and damaged hair. Instead of just using high heat like most flat irons, this one is gentler and helps keep your hair moisturized while straightening it in just one go. The plates on the flat iron spread the heat evenly, and they’re designed to not snag or pull on your hair. It costs $149, but it’s worth it if you want to take care of your damaged hair. Plus, it can work anywhere in the world and has a safety shut-off feature, which is handy for traveling.

BED HEAD PIXIE1/2 TOURMALINE + CERAMIC FLAT IRON TURQUOISE

The Beachwaver flat iron is popular because it combines titanium and ceramic plates, making it great for straightening curly hair. The titanium spreads heat evenly, while ceramic plates gently straighten hair without causing damage. It has three heat settings to protect your hair from getting too hot. Plus, the long cord makes it easy to reach all parts of your hair. It can get as hot as 450 degrees and has a 1-inch plate size. It also has features like an automatic shut-off after 30 minutes and an LCD display to show the temperature. While it’s easy to use and switch between temperatures, some people might find it pricey.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR THICK HAIR WHEN USING FLAT IRON

Thick hair is beautiful, but it can also present a challenge when it comes to straightening.  Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve sleek, frizz-free locks with your flat iron:

Prep is Key:  Don’t underestimate the power of prepping your hair for heat styling.  Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products designed for thick hair.  Once your hair is towel-dried, apply a heat protectant spray to shield your strands from heat damage.

Blow Drying Makes a Difference:  For the smoothest results, blow dry your hair partially before flat ironing. Use a round brush to pull your hair taut as you dry, which will help to pre-straighten it and make the flat ironing process easier.

Sectioning is Your Friend:  Thick hair requires a section-by-section approach.  Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips. This will ensure you don’t accidentally miss any strands and will prevent you from overheating a single section.

Thicker Plates, Faster Results:  For thick hair, wider flat iron plates are your best friend.  Opt for plates that are at least 1.5 inches wide. Wider plates allow you to straighten larger sections of hair at once, minimizing straightening time and heat exposure.

Lower Temperature, Higher Success:  Thick hair can typically handle higher heat settings, but it’s always better to start with a lower temperature and gradually increase it if needed. This helps to prevent heat damage and protects the health of your hair.

Multiple Passes with Care:  While thicker hair might require multiple passes with the flat iron to achieve the desired straightness, avoid going over the same section repeatedly.  Each pass should be slow and controlled to minimize heat damage.

Ionic Technology for the Win:  Consider a flat iron with ionic technology. Ionic technology emits negative ions that help to neutralize positive ions in the hair, reducing frizz and static and leaving your hair smoother and shinier.

Cooling Down is Crucial:  Once you’ve finished straightening your hair, let it cool down completely before styling it further. This allows the hair cuticle to close properly and helps to lock in the straight style.

CONCLUSION

Keep in mind that finding the perfect flat iron depends on factors like your hair type, styling choices, and budget. Additionally, regular clean your flat iron after use is crucial. With the guidance provided, mastering the technique of flat ironing thick hair becomes achievable, resulting in the smooth, frizz-free look you desire. Embrace the process with confidence and take control of your mane!