Braids are a timeless and versatile hairstyle that have been loved by people of various cultures for centuries. Whether you’re looking for a protective style, a fashion statement, or simply a low-maintenance way to manage your hair, braids offer plenty of options. One of the most common questions people ask when considering braids is how long different lengths of braids will appear when installed.
Among the most popular braid lengths is the 20-inch braid. The 20-inch length is often seen as a medium-to-long option that offers flexibility in styling while still being manageable. However, if you’re new to braiding or are considering braids for the first time, it’s essential to understand how long 20-inch braids really are and how they’ll look on different people.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about 20-inch braids. From how long they are in comparison to other braid lengths, to how they can look depending on your height and hair type, we’ll help you make an informed decision on whether this length is the right fit for you.
What Does 20 Inches Really Mean?
Before we dive into how long 20-inch braids are, it’s essential to understand what “20 inches” refers to in terms of braiding length. When braiders talk about 20-inch braids, they are typically referring to the length of the hair extensions used to create the braid, rather than the actual braid length on your natural hair.
In most cases, 20-inch braids are measured from the tip of the braid down to the end. To visualize 20 inches, it’s about halfway down the chest or just above the belly button for an average-height person (around 5’4” to 5’6”). However, the exact positioning may vary depending on how tight or loose the braids are installed and the natural length of your hair.
It’s also important to note that hair extensions can stretch or shrink based on their texture and the type of braids being used. For example, box braids and knotless braids may behave differently than passion twists or faux locs, even if they are all 20 inches.
How Long Are 20-Inch Braids?
The length of 20-inch braids will vary slightly based on your height. Here’s a breakdown of how 20-inch braids might look on people of different heights:
1. For Petite Individuals (5’0″ to 5’2″)
If you’re on the shorter side, 20-inch braids will likely fall somewhere between your collarbone and chest, or slightly above your waist. For individuals who are around 5’0″ to 5’2″, this length may give a long, sleek look that still feels manageable and light. The braids will not be excessively long but will still add volume and movement to your style.
2. For Average Height Individuals (5’3″ to 5’6″)
For individuals of average height (5’3″ to 5’6″), 20-inch braids typically fall right below the shoulder blades, around the middle of the back. This length is perfect for those looking for something that is long but not overwhelming. It strikes a great balance between length and manageability, giving you the option for various styling possibilities.
3. For Tall Individuals (5’7″ and Above)
For those who are taller, 20-inch braids will fall mid-back or lower, possibly reaching the upper part of the waist or just below the waist. While this may seem long for a shorter person, for taller individuals, this length offers a flattering, proportional look. It’s perfect for those who want a longer braid without going all the way to a very long length like 24 or 30 inches.
How Does the Hair Type Affect 20-Inch Braids?
The way 20-inch braids will look also depends heavily on your natural hair texture and the type of hair extensions used. Some people may find that 20-inch braids seem shorter or longer based on how the hair is styled. Let’s take a look at how different hair types influence the final result of your braids:
1. Straight or Silky Hair
If you have straight or silky hair, 20-inch braids will likely appear sleek and long. Straight hair allows the extensions to hang in a more uniform, straight line. When braided, this length will appear exactly as described—falling between the shoulders and mid-back for most people.
2. Curly or Wavy Hair
For those with curly or wavy hair, the 20-inch braid might not appear as long because the natural texture of the hair tends to shrink up. Curly hair has more volume and can create a fuller, more dense braid. When braided, curly hair may make the braids look a little shorter than their actual length, as the curl can cause the hair to bunch up, making it appear a bit shorter or thicker.
3. Coily or Kinky Hair
If you have coily or kinky hair, you might notice that your braids appear even shorter compared to straight or wavy hair types. Coily hair can shrink in length when braided, which means the 20-inch braids may appear around shoulder-length or just below depending on the degree of shrinkage. Additionally, if you are using natural hair extensions, such as Afro-textured hair, the braids can seem bulkier but with a lot of movement.
4. Textured or Afro Hair
For Afro-textured hair, the texture of the hair itself may create a fuller, thicker appearance when braided, and the length of the braids may be somewhat compressed. If you are opting for knotless braids, the absence of knots at the root can create a more elongated look, allowing the 20-inch length to hang with more flow. However, depending on the type of braid, it could still look shorter on natural hair textures compared to straight or wavy extensions.
How Does Braiding Technique Affect the Length?
In addition to hair type and height, the technique used to install the braids can affect how long the 20-inch braids look. Some common techniques include:
- Box Braids: Box braids are a popular and classic braiding technique where each braid is created with a section of hair. Box braids tend to hold their length and are often used with extensions to add fullness. The 20-inch box braids will typically be around mid-back to lower back in length, depending on your height.
- Knotless Braids: Knotless braids, a technique where the braid is started without knots at the root, can create a smoother, more natural look. These braids can give the 20-inch length a longer, sleeker appearance because the root area is more lightweight.
- Cornrows: Cornrows are smaller, tighter braids that are done along the scalp. If you’re doing a cornrow braid style with 20-inch extensions, the length may appear shorter due to the tighter nature of the braids and the fact that the braids sit closer to the scalp.
- Senegalese Twists or Marley Twists: These are twist styles where the extensions are twisted rather than braided. The 20-inch twists will likely fall shoulder-length or just below depending on your hair texture and height, and they tend to have more movement and volume.
How to Maintain 20-Inch Braids for a Longer Lasting Look
If you’ve opted for 20-inch braids and want them to last as long as possible while maintaining their length and appearance, proper maintenance is key. Here are a few tips for keeping your braids looking fresh:
1. Regularly Moisturize Your Scalp
Braids can sometimes cause dryness, especially at the scalp. It’s essential to keep your scalp moisturized by using lightweight oils, serums, or sprays designed for braids. Focus on your scalp to prevent itching and dryness without weighing down your braids.
2. Protect at Night
To avoid frizz and tangling, wrap your braids in a satin or silk scarf, or use a satin pillowcase when sleeping. This will help prevent friction and keep your braids smooth and long-lasting.
3. Wash Your Braids Carefully
You can wash your braids, but be gentle with the process. Use a sulfate-free shampoo, and avoid scrubbing too hard. Let your braids air dry to maintain the texture and prevent frizz.
4. Avoid Excessive Heat
While some styles, such as twists, may benefit from a little heat styling, it’s best to avoid excessive heat on braided hair. This can cause the braids to loosen, fray, and lose their length.
Conclusion
20-inch braids provide a perfect balance between length and manageability for most individuals. They fall around the mid-back or lower back, offering a sleek and versatile style. The final appearance of 20-inch braids will depend on your height, hair texture, and the braiding technique used. While it’s common to see these braids look slightly different based on these factors, they remain a popular choice due to their length, style options, and overall appearance.
With proper care and maintenance, your 20-inch braids can look great for weeks, giving you a chic, low-maintenance hairstyle that’s perfect for any occasion.
