Things You'll Need:
- Light essential oil
- Butterfly Clips
- Oil sheen
- Bobby pins
- Small rubber bands (optional)
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Step 1
Depending on the style that has been selected, determine the correct size and direction of the cornrow base. With your tail comb, part the hair into 2-inch sections and apply a light essential oil to the scalp. Massage the oil throughout the scalp and hair.
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Step 2
To create a panel, start by taking two even partings to form a neat row for the cornrow base. With a tail comb, part the hair into a panel, using butterfly clips to keep the other hair pinned to either side.
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Step 3
Divide the panel into three even strands and make sure the strands are the same size to ensure consistency throughout the braid. Place your fingers close to the base. Cross the left strand under the center strand.
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Step 4
Cross the right strand under the center strand. Passing the outer strands under the center strand this way creates the underhand cornrow braid.
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Step 5
With each crossing under, or revolution, pick up from the base of the panel a new of equal size and add it to the outer strand before crossing it under the center strand.
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Step 6
As you move along the braid panel, pick up a strand from the scalp with each revolution and add it to the outer strand before crossing it under, alternating the side of the braid on which you pick up the hair.
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Step 7
As new strands are added, the braid will become fuller. Braid to the end.
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Step 8
Simply braiding to the ends can finish the cornrow. Small rubber bands can be used to hold the ends in place. Other optional finishes, such as such as singeing, are considered advanced methods and require special training.
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Step 9
Braid the next panel in the same direction and in the same manner. Keep the partings clean and even.
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Step 10
Repeat until all hair is braided. Apply oil sheen for a finished look.
