I think my hair is majority 4a kinky* curls and coils. The strands are very fine, but the volume is dense. It’s also very porous hair which tends to make it appear frizzy.
Tell us more about your Mini Braid Method?
I refer to it as a method because it’s catchy and memorable. The method itself is a means for maintaining afro-textured hair in small braids over long periods of time. I, myself, wear a variety of styles but mini braids are by far my preference. My method suggests wearing mini braids for 4-8 weeks at a time with 1-4 week breaks over the course of the year. It’s meant to retain growth. Braids protect hair and for me, it drastically cuts down on split ends and single strands knots. In braids, I’m able to wear my real hair out, cowash often, and still style it in many different ways without manipulating it too much.
So do you braid your own hair?
I do. I’ve been braiding my own hair since I was in middle school. I’ve had many years to perfect my technique. I can do an entire set of mini braids without a mirror or comb…but for simplicity’s sake, I usually use both, lol.
What is your typical weekly regimen?
I wear mini braids for 4-6 weeks with 2-4 week breaks. While my hair is loose, I wear wash and goes mostly and occasional braid or twist outs. I DC my loose hair weekly, moisturize on wash day and seal with oil. I cowash* once or twice between DC’ing and follow with a moisturizer and oil.
Most of my conditioners are protein or collagen based. While in braids, I DC about every other week using the same products. I cowash* 1-2 times a week and as with loose hair, I moisturize and seal on wash days only.
Before and after braids, I clarify and do a protein treatment. Lately, I’ve used henna* as well. I follow the Curly Girl Method– meaning none of my products contain silicones and my shampoo is sulfate free. To detangle, I only use my hands. I use brushes or combs before straightening only- about twice a year.
Sunny says
Wow, Alma, such a helpful info for people with curly hair like me! And thanks for sharing this interview and the Curly hair method with us!