Hair-perimentations: Dry Braid and Curl

I'm back on another no-heat challenge and hoping to last until my birthday in February.  Although some frown upon straightening, I like having the ability to switch it up and have the right to treat myself for special occasions.  It also allows me an opportunity to get my ends trimmed.  During my last 'challenge', I pretty much stuck to the same routine of co-washing twice a week on Sundays and Thursdays and setting my hair using Curlformers.  Anyone who is not a believer in Curlformers, please believe, they are great and I will not be told otherwise.  During this challenge, I want to try out other no heat required styles.  I was inspired by Curly Nikki and Miss G to try the dry braid out.

To achieve this look, I first co-washed with Organix Coconut Milk and used Herbal Essence Hello Hydration as my leave-in.  Using a solution of 1/2 Lottabody and 1/2 water, I did about 12 braids (plaits) throughout my hair, 4 in the back and 4 on each side.  I rolled the ends with 1/2 inch rollers and dried overnight.  I wore this style for the next day but wasn't exactly pleased with the results so couldn't wait to try the dry-braid.  Before attempting the dry-braid, I used a wide tooth comb to gently comb out my curls.  I was scared at first to do this for fear that I'd see a lot of hair come out, but surprisingly there wasn't much shedding beyond a typical styling session.  I then started to fingerpart my hair, apply a bit of shea butter to the ends and braid.  After finishing each braid, I was able to spray with my Lottabody solution and roll the ends with a 1'' satin covered sponge roller.  I ended up with 9 total braids. Since my roots had already been stretched, I didn't need to have as many braids and this time I wanted my waves to be wider.  The next morning, I removed the rollers, unbraided, and fluffed. 

Dry Braid Out

Unlike the wet braiding, I was quite pleased with my results.  The curls looked more natural, my hair was 'bigger', and I loved the effect of the rollers on the ends.  I will probably use this method to stretch out my co-washes to once a week since I'm back traveling now and after first setting with Curlformers.  The boo even commented that he liked the results from this better than braiding wet because it was more curly and less crinkly.  I love his honesty!