BRAIDS FOR MEN: THE MOST POPULAR BRAID STYLES

Until a few years ago, braided hairstyles seemed reserved for women. However, nowadays, braids for men have gained popularity among the male audience, becoming a trend.

Adding to this, men are increasingly growing their hair longer, and braids add an innovative touch to their looks. In this post, we’ll delve into the details of men’s braided hairstyles and explore the different styles they can embrace.

Did you know that the history of men’s braids dates back to 3500 B.C.? Indeed, it does. Over time, braids evolved into symbols of status and belonging to a religion or ethnic community.

This iconic hairstyle originated in what is now Namibia, where women used braids to identify various tribes in the region. Beyond representing age or caste, braids required a significant amount of time to create, providing an opportunity for women to socialize.

Men’s Braided Hairstyles: A Closer Look

The use of braided hair was prevalent in almost all ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks. However, among the Vikings, there was a unique trend where both men and women adorned braids. This fashion is making a comeback in this era of technological advancements and social revolutions.

Men’s braids are undoubtedly departing from the classic looks that gentlemen have sported for decades. In today’s society, people more readily accept and have fewer prejudices against men wearing buns or braided hair.

Moreover, practicality plays a role in the rising popularity of braided hairstyles for men. Undoubtedly, this style offers greater comfort during physical activities for men with long and thick hair.

Within the spectrum of men’s braided hairstyles, the French braid remains a favorite, seamlessly complementing both long and short hair. The choice of braids depends on the thickness of your hair. However, the versatility of braids accommodates almost all face shapes—oval, elongated, round, square, rectangular, etc.

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Braids styles for men

While there is an array of men’s braided styles, it’s essential to understand this ancient hairstyle fully. Although braids suit any face shape, those with square, triangular, diamond, or oval faces are particularly well-suited for embracing men’s braids.

Suppose you aim for a masculine, contemporary, and elegant look. In that case, we recommend combining a fade with braids on the back of your head, accompanied by a lateral conical fade.

Returning to the topic of braided hairstyles for men, there are various types, with the most common being tight or African braids for long hair. However, if your hair is short, you can opt for French, Dutch, fishtail, or inverted braids. Additionally, you may choose more straightforward styles like crochet braids or box braids.

Let’s take a brief look at some of the most representative types of men’s braids. Don’t hesitate—venture out and try some of these styles to add a more avant-garde touch to your look.

Tight Braids for Men

Undoubtedly, a trendsetting look that enhances the presence of gentlemen is tight braids for men. One contemporary figure who has stood out for adopting this style is Lewis Hamilton, the motorsport champion.

As the name suggests, these tight braids originate from the front of the scalp and adhere to the head, gradually progressing backward. Only the final sections of the braid detach from the scalp due to the absence of more hair to continue the braiding.

Looser Braids for Men

Looser braids for men resemble dreadlocks, also known as box braids, and are currently popular among men of African descent. These braids align with the unique characteristics of their hair. Certainly, loose braids for men have captivated the male population, with more men showcasing this look.

African Braids for Men

African braids for men must be properly attached to the scalp. While they are typically woven straight back, alternative patterns can be applied. Also known as cornrows, men often display them by placing two loose braids in front of the ears, adorned with accessories on the ends.

As mentioned earlier, African braids for men were used in ancient Africa to identify each tribe and signify age, power, wealth, and religion. During the times of slavery, black women turned their braids into a secret communication code among those suffering from this oppressive condition.

Indeed, the braids on the heads of enslaved women served as maps to guide others on escaping their tormentors. This tradition transcended generations, and at the beginning of the last century, many women, men, and children proudly displayed their braided hair. Today, African braids for men are a way for them to remember and reclaim their roots.

Braids for Men with Short Hair

There is a wide variety of braids for men with short hair, ranging from traditional African braids and blue African braids to crested braids and braids with disconnected faded crosses. Mention can also be made of metallic bead braids, Dutch braids, braided buns, side braids, tied braids, and backward braiding. Lastly, you can experiment with lateral-cut braids, French braids, and braids with a conical fade.

Viking Braids for Men

Historical records show that the Vikings, in addition to grooming themselves daily, were characterized by a vast diversity of hairstyles and haircuts. As a warrior people, the Vikings opted for hairstyles that provided comfort. If they had lush hair, they would often tie it back to avoid hindrance during battles.

Among the many Viking hairstyles, the Viking braid for men stands out. It is said that Viking men braided their hair before dueling, symbolizing the intertwining of destinies.

How to Braid Hair for Men Step by Step

While it may be a bit challenging at first to understand how to braid hair for men, with time and practice, you’re sure to become an expert. We recommend starting with a French braid, as it serves as the basis for more complicated and elaborate styles. A French braid for men involves gradually adding hair strands to secure the braid at the back of your head. Below is a step-by-step guide for you to create this traditional type of braid:

1. Start with Clean, Towel-Dried Hair: Begin by washing your hair and then towel-drying it. Once free of moisture, take the portion of hair you want to braid and direct it backward.
2. Separate Frontal Hair Strands: Use a comb to separate the strands at the front of your head, dividing them into three equal parts.
3. Begin the Braid: Start the braid by passing the right strand over the central strand, then do the same with the left strand. Repeat this action twice.
4. Incorporate Back Hair: Afterward, gather a portion of hair from the back-left side of your head. Add this strand to the left one. Subsequently, pass the entire left strand over the central strand. Repeat the previous step on the right side of your head.
5. Continue Braiding: Keep weaving the braid by alternately adding strands from the left and right sides of your head. Once there is no more hair to braid, secure the end with a hair tie.

Now that we’ve described how to braid hair for men step by step, you’ll be able to try out this look and impress those around you. It’s a way to refresh your appearance and showcase a versatile and stylish hairstyle that has long ceased to be exclusive to women.

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Caring for Hair with Men’s Braids

Now that you know how to weave a braid for men, it’s essential to understand some guidelines for caring for this hairstyle. Below are some recommendations:

• Pre-Braiding Treatment: Experts suggest applying a protein mask or a similar treatment to the hair before braiding. Once the braids are done, daily use of a moisturizing spray is advised to prevent breakage, retain moisture, and nourish the scalp.
• For Curly Hair: If your hair is curly and you want to braid it, it’s recommended to soften it with oils specially designed for this purpose.
• Duration of Use: A single braid should not be worn for more than a month or a month and a half. If you have African braids, washing them every 7 to 10 days is advisable to prevent damage and maintain a healthy scalp.
• Washing African Braids: To wash African braids for men, mix shampoo and water in a spray bottle. Apply this mixture directly to the scalp, massage it, and then lather the braids. Finally, remove any residue using a container of water or a detachable showerhead.
• Moisturizing: Counteract dryness by moisturizing the braids with shea butter. This product, derived from drupe almonds, is readily available.
• Essential Oils: Apply essential oils to the scalp, such as lavender, rosemary, or tea tree oils. Combining them with coconut or jojoba oil is suggested for a less intense effect.
• Sleeping Care: When going to bed, cover your braids with a non-absorbent hair cap or scarf. This prevents frizz and rebellious strands.
• Avoid Tight Braids: Since tight braids can pull on the hair follicles, leading to hair loss, men opting for this style are advised to vary their looks. Loose braids, which exert less pressure on the scalp, are a suitable alternative.
• Securing Braids: Use a hair tie or ribbon to tie the ends of the braid. Clips can also help maintain the hairstyle and make it last longer.
• Creating Clean Lines: For separate braids with clean lines, use a good comb or brush with narrow teeth to protect the hair from static. Additionally, hair spray helps prevent loose and tangled strands, enhancing the final look.
• Use of Gel: In addition to hairspray and clips, using gel is recommended to keep the braids in place.
• Ideal Hair Length: A length of around 12.7 centimeters or more is ideal for comfortable and stylish braids.

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By following these recommendations, you’ll ensure that your braids always look good and contribute to keeping your hair and scalp healthy.

As you can see, there’s a lot to explore when it comes to men’s braids. Their history dates back centuries, playing a significant role in various cultures. More and more men, including many artists, athletes, and celebrities, are embracing this original and versatile hairstyle.

Don’t hesitate—try adopting this hairstyle to refresh your look. Rest assured, you’ll turn heads and become the center of attention. The trend of men’s braids is here to stay!