Tree Braids Are Making a Triumphant Return: Here's Everything You Need to Know

Even though protective styles [1] are all the rage during summer, they're actually a breeze to maintain all year round. You've got a ton of classic options to pick from like box braids [2], faux locs [3], or sew-ins [4]. But every now and then, a blast from the past (specifically the early 2000s [5]) makes a comeback to spice things up. And that's exactly what's going on with tree braids right now.

Tree braids are often considered a healthier alternative [6] to other popular styles and can be more suitable for people with sensitive scalps, or if you prefer for your braids not to be too heavy. Rose Ovensehi, textured hair expert and founder of Flora & Curl [7] tells POPSUGAR UK that tree braids are often used to add volume and length to the hair. She says: "[Tree braids are] completed by braiding the hair as close to the scalp as possible, very similar to cornrows or crochet braids [8]. They can also be used to create ponytails and updos for those with textured hair. They used to be very popular as they're more comfy on the head - the tree braid technique helps to distribute the weight of the extensions evenly and provides a more secure grip so that they sit lighter."

Tree braids can allow you to get creative when styling, as Ovensehi explains, thanks to how lightweight, comfortable and most importantly, low maintenance [9] they are. "Tree braids are easy to look after and with the correct techniques and processes, tree braids can last for months on end. There's no need to keep re-braiding them every few weeks. Another benefit of tree braids is that they are a gentle, protective style and therefore prevent damage to your natural hair. By keeping the hair partially braided, tree braids significantly reduce the risk of breakage and split ends, promoting healthier and more durable hair."

Keep reading for the lowdown on tree braids, exactly what they are and how to get them installed in time for your summer motives.

What Are Tree Braids?

Tree braids are the chameleons of hairstyles. You can start with a tiny cornrow and leave most of the extensions out, giving the appearance of a sew-in. Or you can go for more cornrows and less loose hair, for more of a braided hairstyle. Tree braids are super flexible, which is probably why the style is making a comeback. It's also in sync with the trend of French-curl braids, where each braid ends loose and curly. It's not a must for tree braids, but you can totally rock it if you want to switch things up a bit.

How to Get Tree Braids

To get this look, it's important to do your due diligence. Find a stylist that you know specialises in tree braids. Depending on how long you want the style to be in, Ovensehi says using human hair extensions are a popular choice: "When it comes to choosing your extensions, whether you opt for human hair or synthetic hair is completely your personal preference. Human hair is often a popular choice as it provides a more natural, authentic look and is sometimes easier to style. Gently brush your hair daily with either a soft bristled brush or wide toothed comb to avoid the tree braids becoming tangled or knotty."

How Much Do Tree Braids Cost?

Because getting the style can be tedious, installation can cost anywhere between £130 and £200. Additionally, there are some best practices you want to keep in mind, particularly when it comes to skin and scalp care.

"Tree braids require very few wash days, I would recommend washing your hair every 7-10 days. However the key here is to opt for moisturising and nourishing products that contain hydrating ingredients such as rose water and avocado oil," Ovensehi tells us. Here, a hydrating shampoo, like the Hair Proud Super Hydrating Shampoo [10] (£8), followed by their Super Hydrating Conditioner [11] (£8) would be ideal. For some scalp TLC before getting your tree braids installed, try STRAAND's Halo Hydrator Calming Hydration Scalp Mask [12] (£26).

"When your hair is wet after washing, be extremely gentle. Use a large microfibre hair towel, which will fit your braids in comfortably while also helping to air dry the hair naturally too. Towels made of microfibre material will also prevent frizz," she adds. Hair Made Easi's The XL Luxury Hair Wrap [13] (£18) is a perfect choice.

Best Hair For Tree Braids

Purchasing extensions for your tree braids can be a tricky task, especially if you can't buy them at your salon through your hairdresser. In this case, once you've determined how you want your hair to look, consult with your hairdresser on what type of hair to buy, what length and how many packs you'll need. If you're looking for synthetic braiding hair for a French curl style, check out Ruka Hair's Braid-it: French Curl [14] (£14), which comes in five colours and two lengths, 18 and 24 inches. Similarly, if you want more curls, go for their Braid It: Passion Curl [15] (£20).

To avoid tangling and matting, which could be the result of leaving more extensions loose, you could try human braiding hair for your extensions, like YWigs' Water Wave Bulk Hair Extensions [16] (£55, originally £100). When styling your tree braids, Ovensehi recommends the Flora & Curl Sweet Hibiscus Curl Activating Lotion [17] (£17) and applying hair oil for a healthy sheen. "Regularly apply an oil to keep your hair moisturised. The Citrus Superfruit Radiance Oil [18] (£18) from Flora & Curl is the perfect product as it is nourishing as well as protecting — it helps your hair to retain moisture, whilst enveloping each strand in an invisible, non-greasy, protective layer. It also tames frizz and flyaways too."

Lauren Gordon [19] is the editorial coordinator at POPSUGAR UK, where she creates lifestyle and identity content. Lauren has a degree in journalism from University of the Arts London and previously worked as a showbiz and TV reporter at The Mirror US. Lauren specialises in pop culture, hair and beauty, focusing on trends, sharing in-depth tutorials, and highlighting hidden gems in the beauty industry.