Straight Up Cornrows
Clean, straight up cornrows that travel up toward a bun or ponytail for a polished, everyday protective style that still feels light on the scalp. Wash, hydration treatment and gentle blow out are included with every booking.
Are Straight Up cornrows a good match for you
Choose this style if you want a neat, low maintenance protective style that can be worn for work, errands, school runs or events with very simple styling.
- You prefer a sleek, defined look with straight lines that gather into a bun or ponytail.
- You want a style that keeps your hair off your face and neck without a lot of daily manipulation.
- Your routine allows basic weekly care like hydrating your scalp, wrapping at night and refreshing your hairline.
- You are looking for a lighter option than long braids or locs that still protects your ends and hairline.
When not to get this style
- Pause if your scalp is already irritated or tender. If you have redness, flaking, burning, sore spots or you recently removed a tight style, we recommend starting with a Scalp Treatment and an even lower tension option while your scalp recovers.
- Skip for now if your hairline is very sore or recently pulled. Straight Up cornrows gather into a central point, which can add extra tension if your hairline is already stressed. A Scalp Treatment and time with your hair in a loose natural style may be better first.
- If your hair feels very dry, thin or is breaking easily. Even a gentle cornrow needs your hair to have some strength and elasticity. A Deep Conditioning Treatment and small trim where needed help prepare your ends so they are not fraying inside the braids.
- If your hair has been recently coloured or frequently heat styled and feels fragile. A Hydration Treatment supports elasticity so your strands bend with the braiding motion instead of snapping.
- If you prefer a free, loose style. Straight Up is structured and sleek. If you are not ready for a committed protective style for a few weeks, a blow out or soft twist out may suit you better right now.
Not sure if your scalp or ends are ready. Take a 20 second check to guide your next step.
Scalp Comfort Check
This short check helps you understand how ready your scalp is for Straight Up cornrows today. Answer a few quick questions and your results will guide you to the safest, most comfortable option.
Q1. How does your scalp feel when you lightly touch it today
Q2. Did you recently remove a protective style
Q3. Do you notice any of these symptoms right now
Q4. How does your hairline feel when you pull your hair back gently
Q5. Have you had a tight or uncomfortable install recently
See the look
Straight Up cornrows give you neat lines that travel upward into a bun or ponytail. The finish feels clean, structured and easy to wear with everything from blazers to activewear.
Hair and tension notes in plain language
We keep the science simple and focus on how your hair and Straight Up cornrows behave in real life.
- Low tension by design. We work with your natural density and growth direction to keep each braid secure without that “pulled tight” feeling.
- Focus on hairline health. Around the front and nape, we use slightly larger, softer sections or braid around fragile areas instead of straight through them.
- Treatments that support the style. Deep Conditioning Treatment helps dry or colour treated hair feel stronger for braiding, while Hydration Treatment supports elasticity so your strands bend instead of snapping.
Aftercare tips
Simple habits to keep your Straight Up cornrows neat, comfortable and kind to your hairline from installation to takedown.
- Hydrate your scalp lightly. Use a light scalp mist or oil along the parts as needed. Heavy products can cause buildup at the base of each braid.
- Wrap at night. A satin scarf or bonnet over your cornrows reduces friction, keeps your hairline smooth and helps your style last longer.
- Keep your hairline soft. Avoid very tight edge brushes and gels every day. Gentle smoothing is enough to frame your face without stressing your edges.
- Cleanse carefully. Every two to three weeks, cleanse your scalp with diluted shampoo, rinse thoroughly and allow your hair to dry fully so the style stays fresh.
- Wear for 2 to 4 weeks. This window balances neatness, scalp health and easy takedown so your hairline is protected long term.
Questions clients often ask
Are Straight Up cornrows good for tender scalps
When tension is controlled and your scalp is prepared, Straight Up can be one of the gentler protective styles. During your consult we ask about your sensitivity and adjust section size and tension accordingly.
How long do Straight Up cornrows last
On average this style wears best for two to four weeks, depending on your hair type, activities and how you wrap at night. After that, new growth and fuzziness around the base make it a good time to refresh.
Can I gym or swim with this style
Yes. For gym sessions a satin scarf or band helps manage sweat. After swimming, rinse with clean water, pat dry and wrap so the braids stay neat.
Is this style safe for my hairline
We treat your hairline as the most important part of the style. If your edges are already fragile, we may suggest slightly larger, softer braids, avoiding certain areas or starting with a treatment plan before going tighter or smaller.
Will it feel too tight
Our goal is secure, not painful. We build your Straight Up cornrows with controlled tension and check in with you during the install. Your service includes a full hydration ritual and a 72 hour comfort adjustment window if any area needs to be eased.