When your natural hair needs a break from the elements and the strain of everyday styling and blow drying, braids or weave can be the ultimate alternative. Perming and styling your hair can cause extreme breakage and damage to your hair follicles. Lots of women find themselves in a position where they want to give their natural hair a rest while being protected by a braided hair style. The question on which way to go with your 8-week styling and combing through your own tangles has left many ladies pondering; braids or weave? Technically, both styles have braids incorporated in them. However, in weaved styles your real hair is braided up in a flat sew-in pattern. Then, usually, human hair tracks are sewn onto the corn rows covering your real hair but still giving the appearance of having free flowing hair. On the other hand, braided styles (such as box braids), usually have synthetic hair braided in with your real hair giving it a fuller appearance while providing a protective barrier between your hair and the elements. The question of which style is best for you is determined by three simple factors.
1. What Type Of Lifestyle Are You Accustomed To? Is your day fast paces? Do you have 30-40 minutes in the morning
for hair prep? Do you workout ofter? Do you desperately need the time you would spend pressing and curling your weave to commute to work or make breakfast? Or are you a “grab a cup of coffee and go” type person who has no problem spending their mornings primping? Braids provide an opportunity for ladies to significantly cut down on time spent styling hair in the morning. Weaves however, can provide a style that is close to natural hair; especially if you use 100% virgin human hair. A weave has an infinite number of ways it can be styled and has almost the same flexibility of your own natural free flowing hair. It’s up to you to determine which style of braiding suits your lifestyle and gives off the image that you’re going for.
2. What Impression Reflects Your Personal Style? A well maintained weave can give off a structured, well polished, and classy look. Weaves that are styled well, reflect an attitude that the wearer pays a lot of attention to detail, spends time on maintenance, and puts effort into looking great. Braids give off an easy going carefree vibe. Braids convey an impression that the wearer pay attention to the big picture; they value their relaxation time and like to kick back when they get a free minute. Braid wearers don’t have to think as deeply before taking a leap into the pool or going to the gym. Braids can be done in a variety of styles. You can have your hair styled for an office/work/formal environment or in playful carefree twists. You can also do single braids all over your head which provide the flexibility of many different styles; from down to up – do’s. It’s up to you which style conveys your personal style accurately, while simultaneously keeping your comfort level in mind.
3. What Is Your Personal Comfort Level? Some people feel weighed down by the weight of braid hair extensions. Some ladies can’t stand not having access to their scalp in certain places while wearing a weave. On one hand, braids can be bulky at night and get in the way of a comfortable nights rest (in some cases). On the other hand, weave styles can be itchy and hard to dry thoroughly; especially after working out. It all boils down to your personal level of comfort. Both styles protect your natural hair from the elements. The question is really only a matter of your own personal preference.
Article By: Carmia Dumay
