Braided extensions are done by braiding extension hair into the client's own hair (in individual braids, not cornrows or scalp braids) and then braiding down for the entire length of the hair. Braids can be as short as your own hair, or they can be hip-length or longer! The color of the extension hair can be matched to your own to look natural (as in this photo), or completely different colors can be used, as shown on the right. Different styles can be achieved by leaving the lower half of the hair unbraided as shown here. Your natural hair can also be braided by itself, though this is only recommended for people with medium to thick hair. If this is done, decorative accents (such as the red cord in these braids) make a nice touch. Braids can be as thin as a eighth of an inch, or thicker than a half-inch, depending on the look you're going for!
Braids are extremely easy to care for, as they require minimal washing and very little other maintenance. They last for about 3-4 months, after which time they should be taken out so you can comb out your roots. Contrary to popular belief, if the braids are done with proper attention to your hair's thickness and texture, braids do not damage the hair! Damage only occurs when a stylist pulls the hair too tight or makes the extensions too heavy for the hair. More detailed aftercare instructions for braids can be found here.
Medium-width, mid-back-length braids can take 8-10 hours to install, although shorter braids and appointments with two or more stylists working simultaneously can shorten that time to 5-7 hours.
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