Braids are a classic hairstyle that never go out of fashion. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion, hitting the gym, or simply want a polished everyday look, braids can add that perfect touch to your style.
However, thin or sparse braids may not have the desired visual impact, leaving people searching for ways to make their braids appear thicker and fuller.
Luckily, there are a variety of techniques that can be used to achieve this look without causing damage to your hair.
In this article, we will explore some of the most effective methods, ranging from proper preparation of your hair to specific braiding techniques that result in a thicker appearance.
To begin, tidy, well-nourished hair makes for a fantastic base to create thicker-looking braids. We will delve into the right products and routines to help you achieve a healthy, voluminous starting point.
Next, we will discuss various braiding styles that naturally lend themselves to a fuller appearance, as well as the correct ways to execute them.
Finally, we will explore some hair accessories and finishing touches that can give your braids that extra look of thickness and dimension. So, let’s embark on this journey towards stunning, thicker braids!
Choosing the Right Braid Type
When it comes to making your braids look thicker, choosing the right braid type is essential. Here we will discuss three popular braid styles—Classic Three-Strand Braid, Dutch Braid, and Fishtail Braid—each with unique features that can help you achieve a fuller look.
Classic Three-Strand Braid
The Classic Three-Strand Braid is the most well-known and simplest braid type. To create a thicker appearance:
- Start with damp hair and use a volumising mousse.
- Divide the hair into three even sections.
- Cross the right section over the middle, followed by the left section over the new middle, and repeat.
Dutch Braid
The Dutch Braid, or the reverse French braid, offers more volume when compared to the Classic Three-Strand Braid. To achieve a thicker look:
- Begin at the hairline, dividing the hair into three sections.
- Cross the right section under the middle, followed by the left section under the new middle. Add more hair as you go.
- Continue down the length of the hair, keeping the braid tight, but not too tight.
Fishtail Braid
The Fishtail Braid is a fancier option that provides the illusion of thickness. Follow these steps for a thicker braid appearance:
- Split the hair into two equal sections, holding one in each hand.
- Take a thin strand from the outside of one section, bring it over the top, and swap it with the opposite section. Repeat on the opposite side.
- Continue this process down the entire length, while keeping a consistent tension.
In summary, choosing the correct braid type is essential in achieving a thicker appearance. Consider experimenting with each of these popular styles to find the one that works best for your hair type and desired look.
Preparation
Techniques for Creating Volume
Teasing Hair Before Braiding
Teasing your hair before braiding can add volume and texture. To tease, use a rat-tail comb or a teasing brush, and gently backcomb the sections of hair you’ll be braiding.
This creates a slightly tangled base that adds thickness to the braids. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much teasing can cause damage to your hair.
Pancaking the Braid
Pancaking the braid is a simple yet effective technique for creating volume. After completing your braid, gently pull apart the outer edges of each loop in the braid, being careful not to unravel the entire braid. This will create a fuller, voluminous appearance.
Adjust the width of the pancaked sections to achieve your desired level of thickness.
Stacking Braids
Stacking braids is another method of adding volume and dimension. The idea is to incorporate multiple braids into your hairstyle, layering them to create a more voluminous look.
You can either braid two or more separate sections and then combine them, or create one larger braid by weaving additional smaller braids into it.
Experiment with different braid styles and sizes to find the perfect combination for your desired look.
Adding Accessories for a Fuller Appearance
Using Hair Extensions
Using hair extensions is a common way to make your braids look thicker. You can choose from various types of extensions, such as:
- Clip-in extensions
- Tape-in extensions
- Sew-in extensions
To match your hair colour and texture, select the appropriate shade and material.
Synthetic extensions offer a more affordable option, while human hair extensions provide a more natural look. When incorporating extensions, ensure they blend seamlessly with your hair.
Incorporating Hair Accessories
Incorporating hair accessories can enhance the appearance of thicker braids. Consider the following options to achieve a fuller look:
- Hair rings: Weave metal rings into your braids to create an illusion of thickness.
- Headbands: Choose wide or embellished headbands, which can partially cover your braids, giving the impression of more volume.
- Beads and charms: Adding beads or charms can further split up the complexity of thinner braids and enhance their overall appearance.
Remember that the key to making braids appear thicker is to strike a balance between your accessories and your natural hair.
Experiment with different combinations and styles to achieve your desired look, always maintaining a confident, knowledgeable, neutral, and clear tone.
Maintaining Thickness Throughout the Day
Hairspray and Setting Products
To maintain the thickness of your braids throughout the day, it is essential to utilise hairspray and setting products.
Apply a volumising hairspray or a texturising spray to your braids after styling. This will help to provide extra hold and maintain the thickness.
You can also consider using hair extensions to add more volume to your braids, if needed. Hair extensions are available in a variety of colours and textures and can be easily applied to your hair before starting the braiding process.
Gentle Touch Ups
Throughout the day, it’s important to avoid tugging or pulling on your braids, as this can cause them to become thinner and lose their volume. Instead, give your braids a gentle fluff to maintain their thickness.
If it’s necessary to retouch your braids, be cautious not to disturb their structure too much. Use a wide-toothed comb, rat-tail comb or your fingers to make minor adjustments. This ensures your braids maintain their thickness and stay looking full and voluminous.
Remember, when maintaining the thickness of your braids throughout the day, a combination of hairstyling products, gentle touch-ups and mindful hair care practices is key.
I’m Jennifer a beauty and wellness expert. I believe in promoting a sustainable and healthy lifestyle from within. Helping people feel good is my passion; whether it’s teaching yoga or offering skincare advice.
