Do you feel like you’re constantly playing the guessing game when it comes to hair? How much hair do I need for my style? What brand should I buy?
Relax, I’ve got you covered. In this complete guide to buying hair, I break down how many packs or bundles of hair you’ll need for your next style – whether it’s box braids, cornrows, crochets, or a weave.
Yass! How much hair do I buy?
So, how much hair should you buy? It depends on a few factors – namely, the style you’re going for and the length of your hair. If you’re getting box braids, cornrows, or crochets, you’ll want to buy anywhere from two to six-packs of hair, depending on the thickness and length of your hair.
For example, if you’re getting a weave, you’ll need anywhere from three to eight bundles of hair, again depending on your hair thickness and length.
When it comes to purchasing hair (particularly braids), it’s crucial to remember that the quantity of hair required varies from person to person. Why? Because God created us all in our own image, according on His divine plan! No, but yes, the number of strands required is largely determined by three key variables:
- Are you relaxed or natural with your hair texture?
- Is your hair thick or thin?
- How much hair do you have? Do you have shaved sides?
After that, you must choose what appearance you desire. So, for example, do you want a lot of volume in weaves and crochets? It’s a lot to consider, but regardless of your texture, I recommendation taking into account purchasing a bit more than you require since it’s always preferable to have too much hair rather than not enough.
What Type of Hair Should I Buy?
Before we get into how much hair to buy, let’s first start by answering what type of hair to buy! In general, there are two types of hair you can choose from: synthetic hair and human hair.
Synthetic hair is usually made out of Kanekalon fibers and it’s a great option if you’re on a budget. Synthetic hair is also less likely to tangle than human hair, but it doesn’t always look as natural.
I love X-pression by Outre pre-stretched braiding hair, Latched & Hooked non-toxic pre-stretched hair and EZ Braid Professional (also pre-stretched).
Human hair is exactly what it sounds like – real human hair that’s been collected from donors. Human hair is usually more expensive than synthetic hair, but it can be styled and colored just like your own hair.
How Much Hair Should I Buy For Braids?
Micro/Small Width
The size of micro braids varies from tiny to extremely little. Since your head will have a large number of tiny braids, you’ll need approximately 8 to 10 packets.
Medium Width
Shoulder Length (12, 14 or 16 inches) 4-6 single packs of pre-stretched braiding hair OR one multi-pack that contains 6 bundles.
Mid-Back Length (24 – 28 inches) 4-6 single packs of pre-stretched braiding hair OR one multi-pack that contains 6 bundles.
Hip-Butt Length (36 – 48 inches) 4-6 single packs of pre-stretched braiding hair OR one multi-pack that contains 6 bundles.
Jumbo Width
Shoulder Length (12, 14 or 16 inches) 5-7 single packs of pre-stretched braiding hair or one multi-pack that contains 8 bundles.
Mid-Back Length (24 – 28 inches) 5-7 single packs of pre-stretched braiding hair OR one multi-pack that contains 8 bundles.
Hip-Butt Length (36 – 48 inches) 5-7 single packs of pre-stretched braiding hair OR one multi-pack that contains 8 bundles.
**Note: The more hair you add to your braids, the fuller they will be. However, keep in mind that you’ll be putting extra strain and weight on your strands as a result of this.
Feed-in Cornrows
The amount of hair you’ll need depends on the amount of braids you want installed:
1-2 Cornrows: 1-2 single packs of pre-stretched braiding hair, depending on desired thickness.
3-10 Cornrows: 2 single packs of pre-stretched hair or this pre-bundled pack.
11-15 Cornrows: 3 single packs of pre-stretched hair or this pre-bundled pack.
16-20 Cornrows: 3 single packs of pre-stretched braiding hair or this pre-bundled pack.
Crochets Braids
To install crochet hair 4-5 single packs of hair are required; however, if you buy from Boho Locs, you’ll get all the hair you’ll need for the entire style in one package!!
Crochets with curly or straight hair necessitate 5-6 single packs of hair.
Weave
If you’re buying packs, two (2) will be plenty. Three (3) packs is advised for a more complete appearance, although you may not use it all.
You may use three (3) bundles on average, but 2-4 are acceptable depending on how full and lengthy your hair is. Typically, for long or thick hair, four bundles is the best option.
You might get by with just two bundles for a partial installation, short hair or a sleek (not full) style. When it comes to framing stories, the magic number is three. If you can afford it, go for the extra if you can.
Some Tips on Maintenance
- Tip #1: Occasionally, take a break from wearing protective styles. 4-6 weeks should give your hair a good rest. For example, during the holidays, go for natural hairstyles like the twist out.
- Tip #2: Synthetic braiding hair can cause significant scalp discomfort if not washed first with apple cider vinegar or ensured that you use The Yeluchi line of hair, EZ Braid Professional—the only brand on the market that’s made of Spectra fiber that is itch-free and antibacterial.
- Tip #3: Keep your braids healthy and hydrated with a leave-in conditioner.
- Tip #4: To get the most out of your braids, be sure to protect them at night with a satin-lined bonnet.
Now, you’re all set to buy hair for your next style! Be sure to bookmark this page or save it to Pinterest so you can refer back to it the next time you need to restock on hair. And, as always, let me know if you have any questions in the comments below!
Happy styling!