How Long Should Hair Be for Cornrows

Now that spring is almost here, people will be changing their looks

and the question “how long should hair be for cornrows” inevitably comes up.   So many times there is disappointment because the hair length stalls the service!

Many hairstylists have different ideas on “how long should hair be for cornrows”. 

This is because:

• Every stylist has a different grip.  Most stylists can do so on hair 4 – 5 inches long.  This is without extensions.   Some braiders have a death grip and can braid hair as short as three inches on 4C hair.   If someone can braid your hair at 3 inches, please watch your edges.  Trying to smile or laugh could make you lose them.  Nowadays, I have found clients have come to expect the hairstylist to work magic when the hair is short.  They will shop around for anyone who can promise the desired outcome but complain when their hairline breaks.

• If you have straight or wavy hair, the minimum length is usually 6 inches.  Straight hair braids best when it reaches your shoulders when left out.  At only 4 inches, the braid will loosen in a few hours.
• If your hair is shorter than 4 inches for 4C hair or 6 inches for straight/wavy hair and don’t mind hair extensions, it can be used to fill in. 
• Hair extensions in 4 inches of straight or wavy hair, can still come loose.  The texture of the hair dictates the time.  For example, thinner straight/wavy hair could be braided but if it is thick, it might not be possible because it wants to be spiky or form a curl.

For best results, figure out your hair texture and grow the length best to make cornrows.

By Paula Barker, Silkie Locks Hair Design

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