Fulani Braids: Everything You Need To Know

Are you considering braids for your next hair appointment but don't know what type of braids to do? Step into the world of the iconic Fulani braids.

The Fulani braids are a go-to style every woman should try. They are versatile, protective, and rich in culture, dating back to the pre-1500s with their roots deep in West Africa.

These braids have been a representation of wealth, marital status, and beauty. But in this day and time, women all over the world have embraced the Fulani braids, opting for an array of elegant and stunning styles.

There's no limit to the incredible number of styles you can wear.

Let’s learn more about the Fulani braids.

What are Fulani Braids?

Fulani braids are a mixture of cornrows and box braids. It's a protective style that originated from the Fulani people in West Africa. Also referred to as bo braids, the cornrows are tightly plaited in different sizes, ranging from small to medium.

But there is no one way to create this style, at times, some braids might be braided forward, with others to the back or side of the head in whatever sizes. The braids also give room to incorporate curls, or beads at the ends of the hair, with some women going as far as using cowrie shells like they would in the past. Great!

But the best part of the hairstyle is you can style it short or long just as you would with regular cornrows or other braiding styles. As we've seen, Alicia Keys’ length and version of the braids differ from that of Beyonce, Rihanna, or Willow Smith.

How to Create Fulani Braids?

We'd love you to achieve the perfect Fulani braids, so follow our steps closely.

Step 1: The Preparation Stage

Days before you braid, prepare your hair by washing it with a shampoo and conditioner. You can follow the routine you are used to. But be sure your hair is neat and clean.

Ready your styling tools and products as well. Here are the products and tools you may need;

• Braiding extensions (optional)
• Wide-tooth comb
• Rattail comb
• Mousse
• Moisturizer
• Clips
• Beads or accessories of choice
• Styling gel

Step 2: Moisturize Your Hair

On the day you want to braid, start with hydrating your hair and scalp. You can use your go-to moisturizer to keep dryness away.

Comb your hair after and the braiding can begin.

Step 3: Choose a Fulani Braids Style

The classic Fulani braids always have the straight-back cornrows parted in the middle. But that's not compulsory. The braids allow you to explore various options- there's also the option of becoming creative and choosing a new pattern.

Step 4: Braid Your Hair Following the Style You Chose

Usually, the Fulani braids incorporate cornrows and knotless braids, with the cornrows in front and the knotless or box braids at the back.

You can choose to start with the front or the back part. Whatever you find most comfortable. But we'll advise you to section your hair before braiding to make it easier. After sectioning, hold each part with a clip.

For the back part

- Cut each section into a box then braid with your hair.

- Include the extensions after braiding for a while.

- Keep adding extensions till you're satisfied with the length.

For the cornrows at the front

- Apply gel after parting for a clean section.

- Braid each line of the cornrows following the pattern you chose whether it's hung or looped on the sides.

- Start braiding with your natural hair for the little sizes to avoid losing your edges. You can add extensions immediately after braiding your “baby hairs”.

Step 5: Accessorize and Finish Up with the Styling

If you choose to accessorize or curl the ends, now's the time. Also, use a mousse on your hair and lay your edges using a styling gel for a perfect look.

Getting Your Fulani Braids at the Salon

If doing the Fulani braids yourself is too much for you, especially considering the long hours it'll take, of course, visit a salon to get your Fulani braids done. But take extra note of these things:

• Choose your style and take your inspiration along with you. Let the picture show the side, back, and the front.
• Speak with your stylist about the length and size of your braids.
• If you have a color of extensions in mind, make sure you mention it to your stylist.
• Prep your hair days before your appointment. This includes washing and moisturizing.
• Take the accessories you would like to put to the salon.
• Inform the stylist about how tight you want the braids to be. This will avoid causing too much tension once you're done.
• Most importantly, visit a professional stylist who's familiar with the braiding style.

How Long Do Fulani Braids Last?

This part raises questions among women, but not to worry, your Fulani braids should last between four to six weeks. Many women's braids may not last for that long, but that's affected by how they maintain them. Plus, other factors like how fast the hair grows and how well it's prepared before braiding.

Normally, everyone's braids will look different with time. Just maintain yours properly and lose it at the right time to avoid damaging your hair.

How Do You Maintain Fulani Braids at Home?

Your Fulani braids can stay healthy and neat for a long time if you maintain them properly. So, how do you do that?

1. Moisturize your hair and scalp is the key

Keeping your hair and scalp hydrated and moisturized is the secret to having your hair neat, and beautiful. So, opt for hair oils and a leave-in conditioner to lock in hydration and prevent dryness or breakage.

2. Protect Your Hair while Sleep

A silk scarf or satin bonnet to bed protects your hair from losing moisture and experiencing frizziness, and friction. You can also incorporate using a silk pillowcase at night. It also helps.

3. Take Precautions

Do not braid your hair immediately after relaxing it. Since relaxing will cause stress, your hair might not be able to handle the weight of the braids, leading to damage. Instead, braid your hair before deciding to relax the new growth.

Another thing is to go for braids that are not very tight. Although it's normal to experience tightness, pain, and tension for a few days after braiding, they should subside afterward.

But if they don't, visit your stylist to take them down. That's because having tight braids regularly can lead to breakage and traction alopecia which you don't want for your hair.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fulani Braids

1. For beginners, how long does it take to braid Fulani braids?

Fulani braids take between four to six hours to get styled. However, as a beginner, you might need more time to style it. So, expect it to take longer. You can add a few extra hours to be on the safe side. The number of hours will depend on the length you are going for and how fast you can get.

2. How many packs of hair are needed for Fulani Braids?

Four to five packs of hair should be enough for your Fulani braids. But this will vary based on the length and style you want. If you visit a hair stylist, discuss how many packs you need before purchasing.

3. Can you swim with Fulani braids?

Of course, you can. Fulani braids are perfect for swimming because they can protect your hair. Plus, you'll find it super convenient. Just use hair extensions that do not cause frizz easily and dry them properly after swimming.

4. How much do Fulani braids cost?

There's no fixed price for making Fulani braids. It's influenced by location, size of braids, stylist, and length. But you can budget between $150 to $400.

5. How long should you rest your hair between Fulani braids?

It's important that your hair rest after styling Fulani braids. So, take time to shampoo, deep condition, and moisturize while giving it the break it needs. Braid again after two to three weeks of rest.

6. How long does it take to style Fulani braids?

Your stylists may take up to six hours to get your Fulani braids done. Still, the hours are influenced by the size, length, and style you choose.

7. Can you style the Fulani braids with natural hair?

Yes. Styling the Fulani braids with your natural hair is possible. Simply, choose a pattern and braid your hair without using hair extensions. You can follow our steps on how to create the Fulani braids above.

12 Fulani Braids Hairstyles Inspo

1. Fulani Braids Middle Part

2. Fulani Braids With Beads

3. Lemonade Fulani Braids

4. Fulani Tribal Braids with Curls

5. Short Fulani Braids

 6. Fulani Braids with Weave

7. Fulani Braids with Heart

8. Side Part Fulani Braids

9. Long Fulani Braids

10. Zigzag Fulani Braids

11. Fulani Braids with Bangs Half Up Half Down

12. Honey Blonde Fulani Braids

Final Words

The Fulani braids are an effortlessly chic style with hundreds of ways to wear them. We've mentioned how you can go for intricate patterns and adorn them with beads and cowrie shells or choose simple and elegant designs.

While we've mentioned everything you need to know, let us know if you have any other questions about these gorgeous braids. We'll do our best to provide answers to them.