Do you want your hairstyle to get some stares?
Then, be ready to book your hair appointment because lemonade braids got you covered!
But before we dive in deeper, what are these iconic braids?
What is the hidden story behind them?
Well, let us reminisce back to 2016 when Beyoncé was filming her album Lemonade, which is perhaps her most significant work.
Beyoncé asked her longtime hairstylist Kim Kimble to create a visual album’s magnetic look.
Her objective was to reach out to all black women in America to evolve and demand their respect in society.
One notable black hairstyle that Beyoncé wore in her song “Formation” from this album was the basic side-swept cornrows with extensions.
This style conjured up images of the superstar singer during her Destiny Child days.
Since this style’s first appearance was in the Lemonade album, it acquired a new identity, Lemonade braids.
Today, lemonade braids are worn mostly by black women because of their culture and texture.
Lemonade braids have a close resemblance to box braids, but instead of the square partitions, they have long cornrows with a deep side part, which makes them cascade over one’s shoulder.
The style is versatile; you can wear it creatively to fit into different personalities and preferences.
Let us get into the discussion and discover how easy you can go about with these braids.
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INSTALLATION OF LEMONADE BRAIDS
Aside from their versatile feature, lemonade braids are also protective hairstyles only if you install them correctly.
If you install them loosely, they will come apart quickly.
Concurrently, if you do them tightly, they will exert tension on your hair, scalp, and edges; hence, increasing hair damage chances.
Are you scared?
Fret not!
It is relatively easy to do lemonade braids even by yourself.
But if you are not talented or confident enough to DIY, maybe because you are a first-timer, you can always get a professional hairstylist to do the installation for you.
Despite the road that you choose to follow, make sure that you observe the guidelines below for the best results.
Prep your hair for lemonade braids.
Since you may stay with this style for long, say up to four weeks, you have to install your braids on clean hair.
- Start by cleaning your hair and scalp with a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo to remove product build-up.
- Follow with a deep conditioner to add moisture and lock it within the strands.
- Detangle gently from the ends as you move towards the roots.
- Rinse your hair with clean, warm water and allow it to air dry.
- Straighten the strands using a blow-dryer on a low heat setting to prevent future tangles while braiding.
QUICK TIPS: DIY LEMONADE BRAIDS
Massage your scalp: Use powerful hair oils to encourage blood circulation and hair growth.
If you have sensitive skin, soak your hair extension before installation in apple cider vinegar and rinse it thoroughly with warm water to prevent itchiness.
Wash your scalp with a clarifying shampoo at least weekly.
Avoid using heat on synthetic hair extensions after washing them. Instead, allow them to air dry.
Protect your style: If you want your lemonade braids to last longer, secure them with a satin bonnet or a silk scarf while sleeping. By preference, you can rest your head on a silk pillowcase.
Use oil to moisturize your cornrows and scalp to keep them healthy and shiny.
Minimize the frequency of washing your braids to tame frizz. Besides, limit the number of products that you use for laying down your edges.
Typically, getting a professional to install lemonade braids for you is always a better option.
They know how to handle every hair texture while using correct tools and products to minimize damage.
Sometimes, they may also recommend the best products to use in your style.
Nevertheless, if DIY is your way out, then consider using these products for a successful process:
Foam Reset Rinseless Hydrating Hair Cleanser
Philip Kingsley Anti-Dandruff Scalp Toner for Flaky/Itchy Scalp
HOW TO DIY LEMONADE BRAIDS?
There are many creative ways of installing lemonade braids. However, in this article, we will only show you how to do the Beyoncé style.
You can install lemonade braids with natural hair only, but they will look more exuberant if you combine them with hair extensions, as explained below.
- Part your hair from temple-to-temple with a rattail comb to create a U-shaped section and tie it up. You will deal with it later.
- Using the tail of your comb, make a horizontal part of about 2.5cm at the nape of your neck.
- Start a three-strand braid beginning from the left side of the horizontal section. After a few stitches, say 3, add a small piece of your synthetic hair extension and continue braiding till the end. Be sure to have a firm grip so that the braid does not unravel.
- Keep the stitches small because the braid will be growing gradually. Besides, be gentle. You might damage your hair if you exert too much tension on the roots.
- Repeat the same procedure of parting your natural hair and cornrowing it to the right with your hair extension after 2-3 stitches until you cover the entire hair section.
- Do the same for the remaining secluded part at the front, but instead, braid the hair down towards your face. Start at your right and pick small sections at a time until you finish the whole head.
4 BEYONCÉ-INSPIRED LEMONADE BRAIDS
FAQs
SHOULD I HIRE A PROFESSIONAL FOR MY BRAIDS?
Yes, please.
If you are not sure of achieving your desired look, give someone else a chance to showcase their talent.
Lemonade braids demand expertise, or else you will end up with crooked braids or bulky stitches along with the cornrows.
HOW LONG DO LEMONADE BRAIDS LAST?
About 4-5 weeks.
But with proper care, you can wear lemonade braids for up to eight weeks.
Do not go beyond this time interval because the braids can cause serious hair damage.
WHAT KIND OF HAIR DO YOU USE FOR LEMONADE BRAIDS?
Synthetic hair extensions are easier to braid because of their texture. Besides, they are cheap, and their versatility makes it possible to go crazy with different styles and colors.
5-6 packs of pre-stretched synthetic hair extensions will get you gorgeous lemonade braids.
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