How to Do Updo Cornrows
The cornrow hairstyle of small, tight braids that lie flat against the scalp is famously associated with African and African American culture. In Yoruba art, the rows of braids symbolize agriculture, civilization, and order. Despite traditional associations, however, today cornrows' popularity transcends race and ethnicity, and cornrow hairstyles have diversified to include elegant updos and other twists on the ancient classic. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Rat tail comb or pick comb
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Water-based hair wax (optional)
- Hair clips or rubber bands (optional)
- Bobby pins
Instructions
-
-
1
Part a section of hair that you would like the cornrow to go along, using a rat tail or pick comb with a fine, sharp edge. Work with the hair while it is a little bit damp. Move excess hair out of the way so that you have a clear path to follow along. Keep hair damp as you work using the spray bottle.
-
2
Take a small section of hair where you want to cornrow to begin. Don't take too much, or you will pull the hair too tightly. Pulling tightly is not the goal in braiding cornrows. Precision, not pulling, will result in a lasting hairstyle.
-
-
3
Separate the hair into three sections and begin braiding for one or two stitches. As you continue, begin to pick up more hair from the sections you've parted and braid it into the row you are working on. The process is similar to the technique used for French braiding. If necessary, use hair clips or rubber bands to keep excess hair out of the way.
-
4
Continue braiding hair along the scalp. When you finish one row, begin another. Continue until you have completed rows of braids all along the scalp.
-
5
Make your cornrow hairstyle into an updo. There are several ways to do this, but the simplest is to twist the end-braids around and up as you would for a ballerina bun, and secure with pins or clips.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
For straight hair you may need to use a water-based hair wax as you style. Very curly hair should be treated with a moisturizer beforehand.
Very tightly curly hair should be treated with a moisturizer that does not break down too soon.
Cornrows can last as long as six weeks with careful maintenance. They should not be left in longer because the hair may become matted and will need to be cut off.
References
- Photo Credit beautiful asian girl with braids image by Gina Smith from Fotolia.com
