Cornrows, a classic hairstyle with African origins, have long been associated with long, thick hair. However, with the right technique, you can create stunning cornrows on short hair as well. This guide will walk you through the process, from preparing your hair to styling it into beautiful cornrows.
Before we dive into the steps, remember that cornrows look best on short hair that's at least an inch long. They also work well on hair with some texture, as this makes it easier to braid. So, if your hair is currently too short or lacks texture, consider this guide a future reference point.
Preparing Your Hair
Proper preparation is key to successful cornrows. Start by washing your hair with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to remove any buildup. Condition your hair thoroughly to add moisture and make it easier to manage.
After washing, gently towel-dry your hair, then let it air dry or use a blow dryer on the lowest heat setting. Once your hair is completely dry, comb it out to remove any tangles. This will make the braiding process smoother and less painful.
Sectioning Your Hair
Begin by parting your hair from the top of your head to the nape of your neck. This will be the first section you'll braid. Use hair clips to secure the rest of your hair out of the way.
For short hair, it's best to create thin sections. This will give you more control over the braid and help it stay neat. Use a rat-tail comb to create clean, precise partings.
Starting the Braid
Take a small section of hair from the front of your parted section. Divide it into three equal strands. This will be the beginning of your cornrow.
Cross the right strand over the middle strand, then the left strand over the new middle strand. This is the basic braiding motion you'll use throughout the process. Make sure to pull the strands tightly to keep the braid neat and close to the scalp.
Creating the Cornrow
Now that you've started the braid, it's time to add more hair to it as you work your way down your head.
Take a small section of hair from the right side of your parted section and add it to the right strand. Cross the new right strand over the middle strand, then the left strand over the new middle strand. Continue this pattern, adding hair from one side at a time.
Braiding Around the Edges
When you reach the edges of your hairline, you'll need to adjust your braiding technique slightly. Instead of adding hair from the side, you'll be taking hair from the top and bottom of your section.
To do this, take a small section of hair from the top of your section and add it to the top of your right strand. Then, take a small section of hair from the bottom of your section and add it to the bottom of your left strand. Continue braiding as usual, adding hair from the top and bottom as you work your way around the edges of your head.
Finishing the Braid
Once you've braided all the way down to the nape of your neck, it's time to finish the braid. If you have enough hair, you can continue braiding until you run out of hair to add. If your hair is too short, you can secure the end of the braid with a small hair elastic.
To make the end of your braid look neat, you can tuck it under and secure it with a bobby pin. This will hide the elastic and give your braid a clean, finished look.
Styling Your Cornrows
Once you've finished braiding your entire head, it's time to style your cornrows. You can leave them as is for a sleek, neat look, or you can add some embellishments to make them more decorative.
If you want to add some flair to your cornrows, consider adding beads, charms, or other embellishments. You can also create patterns with your braids, such as a diagonal or herringbone pattern, for a more unique look.
Maintaining Your Cornrows
To keep your cornrows looking their best, it's important to take care of them properly. Start by washing your hair with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo every few days. This will remove any buildup and keep your scalp healthy.
After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair to add moisture and prevent tangling. You can also use a light oil, like jojoba or argan oil, to keep your scalp moisturized and your braids looking shiny.
Cornrows are a versatile and stylish way to wear short hair. With a little practice, you can master the technique and create beautiful braids that you'll love to show off. So, grab your comb and hair elastic, and get ready to transform your short hair into stunning cornrows!