Q&A for How to Curl Hair with Braids

Braids protect your hair so that it is less prone to damage and breakage but they don't increase the amount your hair grows.

You can set kanekalon hair on a roller or bendable rod, but you can't use a curling iron or any other heat styling tool to curl it.

When hair is wet it stretches farther and is more fragile. Braiding it when it is wet can cause it to break.

Grip opposite sides in your fingers and gently pull, starting at the top of the braid and working down.

They can, though each type of braid will give somewhat different curls. A fishtail works better for a full head of curls and is normally tighter too, so they will last noticeably longer.

If they are too tight, yes. Avoid that by loosening them just a bit.

Yes, but make sure your hair is not too wet when you braid it, or it will take longer than 8 hours for it to dry. Also, make sure that your hair is completely dry before you take the braids out.

Yes. That works too if you have short hair. As long as you follow the directions carefully, any length and number of braids should be fine.

Split your hair in fours and braid, then put them in four buns. Wait three or hour hours, or overnight.

If you use hairspray or gel, it should last a while. If you are not using hairspray/gel, it lasts a day or two.

Yes, just make sure your hair is completely dry when you make them.

It is easiest to French braid thick, straight hair right out of the shower.

Yes, as long as you leave it in for an extended period. Depending on your hair, that means at least overnight; for some, a day or two may be necessary.

It depends on how long you leave in the braids. Leave them in for 2-3 days and spray with hairspray. They'll last 2-4 days if you are careful not to brush and only use your fingers or a wide tooth comb.

Follow the instructions listed in the article above.

Flat iron your hair or take a shower. If you don't have time to shower, spritz your hair with water and comb the curls out.

Try using hairspray to hold the braids in. A few loose strands here and there won't hurt. Also, try making 4-6 ponytails and then braiding them for better support.

Yes, but you will have to leave them in for longer. Probably about two days.

It depends on whether your hair is wet or dry when you braid it. If your hair is wet, then you should wait until the braids are dry to take them out. If your hair is dry, you might have to wait a few hours or overnight. If you have thicker hair, I recommend getting your hair wet before braiding.

They don't have to, but the longer you leave them in, the better a curl you will get. Overnight usually works well. A few hours might not be enough for some people.

Yes. It makes pretty curls.

Yes, you just need to be sure that it is dry when you take it out. If you don't, it might flatten when you brush it.

Yes, leaving the braids in overnight is the most effective way.

Absolutely! You're still drying your hair and will get slight curls. However, sleeping on the braids is way more effective, will give you bigger curls and will save your hair some heat damage. If you want to get adventurous, try making two or three normal braids (not French) and straightening them with a flat iron. The results are some neat waves that are versatile and really pretty.

Simply wet your hair and brush it. That should straighten it instantly. Otherwise soak and wash your hair.

It will definitely make it wavy and somewhat curly. Experiment with it to see how wavy you can get it.

It depends on your hairstyle. Hairspray would work better with flat hair, thin hair, and/or straight hair, and vice versa for gel.

If they are done tightly, and you sleep on the opposite side of your head, the end result should be the same, however the top of your hair could be slightly knotty.

Yes, but it will just make them tight curls. If you want beachy waves, make the sections of your hair larger.

Apply the mousse the same way you would apply the oil, by putting it on your hands, then lathering it into your hair. Just be sure to use extra shampoo (if you have the type that moisturizes hair without needing conditioner) or conditioner the next time you are in the shower so that your hair doesn't get too dry or damaged.