Crochet 101: Wearing Crochet Braids as a Protective Style

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After attending Trials n Tresses End of Summer Bash, I won a free crochet hair installation. This was my first time winning ANYTHING at a natural hair event and getting crochet braids. If you want tips for wearing crochet braids as a protective hairstyle, keep reading.

What Are Crochet Braids?

Crochet braids are a popular protective style for natural hair. They involve using a crochet hook or crochet needle to loop synthetic or human hair extensions through your natural hair, usually braided into cornrows.

Many black women favor this method because it offers versatility, low maintenance, and the ability to protect their hair from daily manipulation, which can lead to issues like traction alopecia.

Popular Crochet Braid Styles

Crochet braids offer endless styling possibilities. Some popular styles include:

• Box Braids: A classic look that mimics the appearance of traditional box braids but is installed much faster.
• Faux Locs: A trendy crochet style that gives the appearance of locs without the long-term commitment.
• Marley Twists: A textured, natural look that is perfect for those who love the appearance of thicker twists.
• Crochet Curls: Bouncy, curly hair that adds volume and is perfect for a natural, carefree look.

Choosing the Right Hair for Your Crochet Braids

One of the most important decisions when getting crochet braids is selecting the type of hair to use. Depending on the look you’re going for and your budget, you can choose between synthetic and human hair.

Synthetic crochet braids, like the ones I had installed, are more affordable and come in various styles, including curly hair, faux locs, and Marley twists. However, they may not last as long as human hair and can be more prone to tangling.

If you’re new to wearing crochet styles, it’s essential to research to find the best type of hair for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a natural look with loose hair extensions or something more defined like box braids, the options are vast.

Popular brands like Freetress and Marley offer high-quality synthetic options that mimic the look and feel of natural hair.

Crochet Braids Installation Process

The installation was done by Erna of crochethairnyc, who used the Freetress Brazilian braid hair. Erna frequently asked if it was too tight, which was a relief because tight braiding can cause serious damage to the hair bulb and lead to hair breakage or loss.

This is important for anyone who has experienced issues with traction alopecia or has a sensitive scalp.

How Long Does it Take to Do Crochet Braids?

One of the nice things about crochet braids is that the installation process is relatively quick compared to other protective hairstyles like box braids or individual braids.

My installation took about an hour and a half to two hours, but times can vary depending on the desired crochet hairstyle and the stylist’s speed.

How Much Do Crochet Braids Cost?

The cost of crochet braids and all protective styles depends on the stylist’s discretion. On average, prices range from $200 to $500, though this can vary based on location and the complexity of the style.

My style was 100% free after winning the raffle, but if you’re paying out of pocket, it’s wise to budget accordingly.

Crochet Braids Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial for keeping your crochet braids looking fresh and ensuring the health of your own hair underneath. Here are some tips:

• Moisturize Your Scalp: Use lightweight oils like jojoba or coconut oil to moisturize your scalp and prevent dryness.
• Wash with Care: I cowashed my hair after coming home from J’ouvert Labor Day weekend, using my fingertips section by section with an old Tresemme conditioner and letting it air dry. You can also use a moisturizing shampoo and a deep conditioner to cleanse your scalp.
• Protect Your Edges: Every morning, I use Curls Passion Fruit Curl Control Paste or Aloe Vera gel to maintain my edges. This is key for avoiding hair breakage and maintaining a polished look.
• Sleep with a Satin Bonnet: Protect your hair at night by wearing a satin bonnet or using a satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz.

I cowashed my hair after I came home from j’ouvert Labor Day weekend, using my fingertips section by section with an old Tresemme conditioner and letting it air dry after washing it out and massaging the coconut oil to my scalp.

I usually get an allergic reaction to synthetic hair unless it is soaked in water and vinegar, conditioned, and air-dried, but I did not get one using this hair. It is possible because the hair isn’t directly on my scalp. Not too sure, but I’m not complaining.

I’m kind of new at this, but every morning, I use the Curls Passion Fruit Curl Control Paste or Aloe Vera gel to maintain my edges and give them a “fresh look.” After week two, I cut about 3 inches off. During the last week of installation, I had my sister cut it for me into a bob-like style. I think I liked the short hair better.

How long do Crochet Braids Last?

After wearing crochet braids as a protective style for exactly 27 days, I took the hair out. On average, crochet braids last 4 to 6 weeks, depending on how well you maintain them.

Factors like hair type, the quality of the installation, and the type of hair used can influence the longevity of the style.

Crochet Braids Takedown

The takedown was entirely too difficult for me. It took about three hours on Wednesday night and two hours on Thursday to finish.

I was told all I had to do was unbraid my hair, and the loops would come out. It took FOREVER!! I wanted it all out in an hour, not 3-5.

After finally being “free.” I followed my regular regimen but used the Bee Mine product line. I’m the laziest natural I know, so I’m happy the crochet braids gave me a break from doing my hair. I received a lot of compliments on them as they got older.

Crochet braids are a great protective style that allows you to experiment with different styles, colors, and textures without committing to long-term changes to your natural hair. They’re also an easy way to give your hair a break from constant manipulation, which is crucial for maintaining healthy hair.

If you’re considering trying crochet braids for the first time, I recommend researching and possibly consulting with a professional stylist, especially if you’re unsure about the installation process.

Whether you choose to go with synthetic or human hair, the result will be a beautiful, versatile, and low-maintenance style that protects your natural hair.

Read More Natural Hair Tips

How to Prepare Your Hair for a Protective Style

How to Take Care of Natural Hair on Vacation

5 Things to Do After Protective Styling

Have you tried crochet braids before? How’d you like them?