What are crochet braids?

Hi Renee,

Eve Woman recently ran an article on crochet braids. I, however, do not know what crochet braids are. I have only heard that the way they are done is similar to traditional crocheting of tablecloths. Kindly elaborate. What are the advantages and its disadvantages?

Charity Ndabwa, Nairobi

Thanks Charity. Crochet braids are hair extensions literally crocheted into your cornrows or 'lines' with a crochet needle. This hairstyle is a favourite among many women, especially those who love the natural hair look.

It looks natural and you will love the fact that you don't have to spend a whole day at the salon - you only need three to four hours and you are done. It offers a versatile and realistic look.

When choosing extensions for your crochet braids, look for hair that resembles your own hair so that it does not look so fake. Like any other hairstyle, this look also has its pros and cons.

The advantages crochet braids:

They are among the least time-consuming hair-dos They can pass your real hair because of the way they are installed. They are multi-functional They fit every budget - there is the very cheap and the very expensive depending on whether you want synthetic or human hair. They protect your real hair and allow you to easily clean your hair. The tension on the scalp after it is done is much less than that of other hairstyles but only if the cornrows are not too tight. For those who love the big hair look; you can easily pull one in seconds. With crochet braids, it is easy to apply a lot of hair, which you can always cut afterwards. It is easy to take care of your scalp.

The disadvantages:

• Most crochet hair tends to frizz fast and, as such, you can't keep it on your hair for long unless you invest in human hair which may be slightly expensive.

• The crochet needle is a special one; latch hook; not the one used to crochet tablecloths and sweaters.

If you don't get a professional to fix them for you, the braids may end up sagging, leaving your hair looking shaggy. Other 'jua kali' hairdressers will do it in such a way that you can easily see the knots in the hair.

You can now decide whether to go for crochet braids or not. The pros outweigh the cons. So once you put it and are ready to remove it, refer to the previous article via www.evewoman.co.ke on how to remove crochet braids and how to take care of your hair after that.