Braiding hair is an ancient art that can be tracked back to early Egyptian times. The styles and looks of braids have changed greatly from their start in the hairstyle world. In Africa, the tradition of braiding has stood the test of time, and is still being passed on from generation to generation. This is also the case for braiding in America as well!

The ''basic braid'' is most commonly seen and is the most well known of all the braiding styles. A basic braid consists of separate strands of hair, three to be exact, that are criss-crossed over each other to form one braid. For the majority of styles, braids start from the forehead or crown area of a persons head. Be sure not to get microbraids confused with cornrows. Cornrows lay flat on the head, while microbraids are free flowing and hang down.

To have beautiful micro braids, just follow a few easy guidelines:

*Micro braids can be stressful on the hair, so it is important that your hair is as healthy as it can be before braiding. A good idea for pre-braiding is a deep-conditioning treatment, followed by a trim of the split ends.

*Not sure if getting micro braids on chemically straightened hair is a good idea? Make sure to consult with your stylist first before getting this style done

*Many people like to add extension hair to their natural hair to give their braids more length and volume. If you plan on doing this, make sure you match the extension hair with either the middle or ends of your natural hair. The root of the hair is always darker than the middle and ends.

*Thick shampoos, conditioners, and pomades can leave residue on your braids and could even cause a dry, itchy scalp. To avoid this, use a ''dry'' shampoo or an astringent to clean the scalp.

*Micro braids can encourage growth; however it is very important to properly care for the hair before, during and after getting micro braids. Before you get them be sure to have your stylist give you a deep condition. While the hair is braided be sure to keep the scalp clean and moisturized with a creme based moisturizer. Once you remove the braids be sure to wash, and deep condition the hair as well.

*Having micro braids that are too tight or too thin can cause unnecessary tension on the scalp, and could result in hair thinning out or breaking off. This is why it is critical that your micro braids are always completed by a professional stylist.

*The most important tips in having great hair are to eat nutritious food, get plenty of sleep, drink lots of water, and avoid unnecessary stress. Healthy braids take a healthy person!

Many people desire micro braids because they are very versatile when it comes to styling possibilities. They are also one of the easier styles to care for. You can't just leave your braids alone and expect them to look beautiful day after day. For beautiful braids, make sure you are moisturizing and conditioning regularly. If your styling products are too thick, you can dilute them slightly so they will be less likely to cause build up on the scalp.

Micro braids should not be worn for longer than three months. Wearing them for any longer could pose a risk to your hair. When you're ready to take out your braids, start by cutting your extension hair as close as possible to your natural hair. Wet the hair, then comb and pick the ends with a medium-toothed comb, working your way to the root. Finally, comb your natural hair with a wide-toothed comb. One this is done it will be extremely helpful to shampoo your hair first with a clarifying shampoo to aid in ridding the hair of dirt and residue. Then shampoo again when your normal shampoo. Be sure to also condition the hair as well. After you do this, you're ready to style the hair as usual!