Easy Satin Strip Braidout for Transitioning and Natural Hair [2014 Updated Version]

satin strip braidout

Why not try it this weekend?
 
The satin strip braidout has been my rock over the past few years. As an early transitioner, I used the technique to create texture where there was none (severe heat damage will do that to ya). In the later part of my transition, it was my go-to texture blending style. It is the perfect style for a weekend or special night, and requires minimal skill. There are two methods to the satin strip braidout, and both yield similar results. Which one you go with is simply a matter of the current state of your hair. Let's jump right in:

Method 1: Recommended for Early Transitioners or Naturals Looking for 100% Texture Blending
This method involves braiding the satin strip into your hair from the root. For new transitioners, this look creates texture and uniformity from the root to the end -- with the added benefit of not having super tapered, crinkly-looking thin ends that most regular braidouts result in. For naturals, this method also creates that same texture and uniformity all the way down. It is perfect for any texture of hair, seriously! Satin strip braidouts on looser hair textures will result in increased definition, and tighter, coily or kinky textures will see more elongated hair.


Here's the tutorial for Method 1:



Method 2 (New!): Recommended for Long-Term Transitioners and Naturals
This method carried me and saved tons of time at the later stages of my transition. Once you have a significant amount of newly natural hair (transitioning for 9 months or more), you can begin a regular braid and then integrate the satin strip at the line of demarcation. This method is perfect for creating the illusion of 100% natural hair. For naturals just looking for an extra oomph at the ends of hair, this method is perfect. If your ends don't stay braided, twisted, coiled, or you find yourself looking for perm rods to hold your ends often, this method is for you.

Here's the Method 2 tutorial, updated for 2014:

In the Method 2 video, the following products were used:
You can definitely feel free to use any combination of moisturizers and definers that you choose. Some of my favorite stylers that I've used previously are EcoStyler Gel (green) and Obia Curl Enhancing Custard. Or, for a much softer (and not nearly as long lasting) result you can use moisturizer only and a little bit of butter of choice. 

And finally, a few tips before starting your own satin strip braidout:
  • I highly recommend starting on freshly washed and conditioned hair. The style can be achieved on dirty hair, but will yield better and longer-lasting results if the hair is clean.
  • DO NOT SEPARATE THE HAIR! The magic in the satin strip braidout happens when the hair is kept together. For Method 1, the satin strip forms 2 sections of hair for the braid, and the hair itself is the 3rd section. In Method 2 the same concept applies, but only after braiding your hair to the point where you want to include the satin strip.
  • Make sure your hair is 100% dry before taking down, or else the braidout will swell and lose definition -- resulting in a shortlived style (unless that's the look you're going for).
Good luck satin stripping!
(wait, that didn't sound right...)

Catch this article also on NaturallyCurly.com!

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