Creating a bun using braiding hair is an excellent way to add volume, length, and style to your natural hair. This technique is versatile and can be tailored to suit various occasions, from casual outings to formal events. In this professional article, we will provide detailed steps, tips, and analysis on how to use braiding hair to make a bun. We will also discuss the benefits of using braiding hair, the types of braiding hair available, and how to care for your bun to ensure it lasts.
Benefits of Using Braiding Hair for a Bun
Using braiding hair to make a bun offers several advantages:
Added Volume and Length: Braiding hair can enhance the fullness and length of your natural hair, creating a more dramatic and stylish bun.
Protective Styling: Incorporating braiding hair can help protect your natural hair from damage and breakage by reducing manipulation.
Versatility: Braiding hair comes in various textures, colors, and lengths, allowing you to customize your bun to match your style preferences.
Durability: Buns made with braiding hair can last longer than those made with natural hair alone, making them ideal for extended wear.
Types of Braiding Hair
There are different types of braiding hair to choose from, depending on your desired look and texture:
Synthetic Braiding Hair: Made from synthetic fibers, this type is affordable and widely available. It comes in various colors and textures, making it suitable for different styles.
Human Hair Braiding Hair: Made from real human hair, this type offers a more natural look and feel. It can be styled and treated like natural hair but is more expensive than synthetic options.
Blended Braiding Hair: A mix of synthetic and human hair, this type combines the benefits of both. It offers a balance between affordability and a natural appearance.
Preparing Your Natural Hair
Before you start creating your bun, it’s essential to prepare your natural hair properly:
Cleanse and Condition: Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. This ensures your hair is clean and hydrated, providing a good base for styling.
Detangle: Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to remove any knots and tangles. This makes it easier to work with your hair and reduces the risk of breakage.
Moisturize and Protect: Apply a leave-in conditioner or moisturizer to your hair, focusing on the ends. Use a heat protectant if you plan to use heat tools.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Bun with Braiding Hair
Step 1: Choose the Right Braiding Hair
Select braiding hair that matches the texture and color of your natural hair. If you want a more dramatic look, choose a contrasting color or a different texture.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Part your natural hair into sections to make it easier to work with. Secure each section with clips or hair ties.
Step 3: Create a Base Bun
Gather your natural hair into a ponytail at the desired location on your head (top, middle, or low). Secure it with a hair tie. Twist or braid the ponytail and wrap it around the base to create a small bun. Secure it with bobby pins.
Step 4: Attach the Braiding Hair
Take the braiding hair and fold it in half. Attach it to the base of your natural bun using a hair tie or an elastic band. Ensure it is secure but not too tight to avoid discomfort.
Step 5: Blend and Style
Wrap the braiding hair around your natural bun, covering it completely. Use bobby pins to secure the braiding hair in place. You can create a sleek, smooth bun or a messy, textured bun, depending on your preference.
Step 6: Secure and Finish
Once the braiding hair is in place, use additional bobby pins to secure any loose strands. Finish the look with a light-hold hairspray to keep the bun in place.
Detailed Analysis and Tips
Choosing the Right Type of Braiding Hair
Synthetic Hair: Ideal for those on a budget or looking for a temporary style. Synthetic hair holds styles well and is available in various textures and colors. However, it can be less durable and more prone to tangling.
Human Hair: Best for a natural look and feel. Human hair can be styled with heat tools and treated like your own hair. It is more expensive but offers greater versatility and longevity.
Blended Hair: A good compromise between synthetic and human hair. Blended hair offers a balance of affordability and natural appearance. It may be slightly more durable than synthetic hair.
Maintaining Your Bun
Sleep Protection: Wear a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to protect your bun while sleeping. This reduces friction and prevents frizz.
Moisture Maintenance: Keep your scalp and natural hair moisturized by applying a light oil or leave-in conditioner to your roots and ends.
Avoid Over-Manipulation: Minimize touching or adjusting your bun throughout the day to prevent loosening and frizz.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Too Much Hair: Using excessive braiding hair can make the bun heavy and uncomfortable. Use just enough to achieve your desired volume.
Tight Securing: Avoid securing the braiding hair too tightly, as this can cause tension and discomfort on your scalp.
Neglecting Natural Hair: Ensure your natural hair is properly moisturized and protected before adding braiding hair. Neglecting your natural hair can lead to damage and breakage.
See Also: How To Use Donut Bun Long Hair
Creative Bun Styles with Braiding Hair
Sleek High Bun
Look: Polished and elegant, perfect for formal occasions.
How to Achieve: Use a fine-tooth comb to smooth your hair into a high ponytail. Create a base bun with your natural hair, then wrap the braiding hair around it for a sleek finish.
Messy Low Bun
Look: Casual and effortless, ideal for everyday wear.
How to Achieve: Gather your hair into a low ponytail. Create a loose base bun, then wrap the braiding hair around it, leaving some strands out for a messy effect.
Braided Bun
Look: Intricate and stylish, suitable for both casual and formal events.
How to Achieve: Braid the braiding hair before wrapping it around your base bun. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light-hold hairspray.
Twisted Bun
Look: Unique and elegant, perfect for special occasions.
How to Achieve: Twist the braiding hair before wrapping it around your base bun. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light-hold hairspray.
Caring for Your Braiding Hair
Washing: If using synthetic hair, avoid excessive washing, as it can cause tangling. For human hair, wash gently with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
Detangling: Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to detangle braiding hair, starting from the ends and working your way up.
Storage: Store braiding hair in a cool, dry place. For reusable braiding hair, keep it in its original packaging or a breathable storage bag to prevent tangling and dust accumulation.
Conclusion
Using braiding hair to create a bun is a versatile and stylish way to enhance your natural hair. By following the steps outlined in this article and choosing the right type of braiding hair, you can achieve a variety of bun styles suitable for any occasion. Remember to care for your natural hair and the braiding hair to ensure your bun looks fabulous and lasts as long as possible. With practice and creativity, you can master the art of using braiding hair to make a bun and enjoy the benefits of added volume, length, and style.