Braiding White People’s Hair

If you normally braid super curly hair and are now getting requests

for braiding white people’s hair, you will find there are some things you have to do differently!  Nowadays everyone feels allowed to do braids  and they  have been exploring new lengths and colors but: these come with conditions!

In an afro-textured household, hair care involves lots of combing and pulling.  Not so, or at

least, not on the same level in the majority straight or wavy hair households.  Therefore, most with afro-textured hair develop a stronger tolerance for having every strand of hair on their head pulled straight in every possible direction.  If you are braiding white people’s hair – especially cornrows, this is important to know.

When braiding white people’s hair here are some important points:

• You cannot braid the hair with too much tension.  If the person’s skin is pulled too tightly at the beginning of the braid the root area will be red later the same day or the next.  Little white bulbs at the end of hair strands is the noticeable indicator.
• If you are using extensions, add the same amount of the person’s hair even for jumbo partings.
• For fine, straight hair, do not make the braid too long or too heavy.   
• Straight and wavy hair tend to have finer hair around the hair line and temple areas.  Light and wispy hair may have to be left out as they will not hold extensions long.
• Hair extensions can be kept in for a month.  After the month, check if there is a drag as it  can cause breakage.  

• Washing the hair is to be limited to once every two weeks as the hair becomes fuzzy and forces its way out of the braids.
• Straight/wavy hair length of 6 inches or more will hold extensions better.  Less hair will start to pop out in or after the first week.

As they may not know what will cause some sensitivity, look for any signs of discomfort when braiding white people’s hair.  By paying attention in these areas you will gain valuable experience.

By Paula Barker, Silkie Locks Hair Design

Books:  “Talking Hair”, “Filling My Head” & “Dreadlocks – A Hairstylist’s Manifest”.