Pop Smoke braids are not just a hairstyle. They are an expression of strength, rhythm, and identity. Named after slain rapper Pop Smoke, the braiding style took the globe by storm, reveling in difference, culture, and urbanity.
You have probably seen them on music videos, Instagram and Facebook, perhaps even at school and the workplace. They are cool, neat, and edgy. You are either a hip-hop enthusiast or a person who just loves laid-back, cool hair, regardless; Pop Smoke braids are your thing.
Visual Idea: Neat, cool young man with edgy, relaxed middle-part Pop Smoke braids in sunlight.
What Are Pop Smoke Braids
Pop Smoke braids are one of the middle part cornrows that just so happen to be named after the artist rapper. The style will consist of four to eight big single braids that sweep or flat lay on the back of the head.
Unlike regular cornrows, Pop Smoke braids are thicker with volume. They are additive or absorbed with volume. They can be worn by both females and males and suit any type of hair with the capability to hold a braiding pattern.
They were so popular because they bestowed power naturally. It is a kind of style that gives power without draining you.
The Origin of Pop Smoke Braids
They also got titled after Bashar Barakah Jackson, popularly known as Pop Smoke, born in Brooklyn and made famous following his baritone voice and hit popular drill songs like Dior and Welcome to the Party.
Pop Smoke typically rocked middle-part braids that characterized his dressing sense. The haircut has been described as a tribute to his life and being after his premature death in 2020.
Braids, though, have been a part of African and Caribbean cultures for a long time too. The look is rooted in the age-old cornrows, a form of self-adornment that is purely heritage, beauty, and community. It was popularized by Pop Smoke among this generation.
Why Pop Smoke Braids Are So Popular
Pop Smoke braids are this well-loved because of a number of reasons. Number one, they are beautiful, but also symbolic and functional.
Some of the reasons are:
• They are cultural pride and unity.
• They can be worn on your hair for days or weeks.
• They are stylish for women and men.
• They are versatile and used on every occasion – formal or casual.
• They are specialized with extension, pattern, or color.
It is a blend of street style and decades-old conventions.
How to Do Pop Smoke Braids
You can professionally do them or try doing them at home if you already possess the braiding skill.
Here is how you can make them step by step.
Wash and Detangle Hair
Use clean, dry, knot-free hair. Shampoo and condition.
Part the Hair in the Middle
Make a tidy middle section from forehead to the back of the neck with the assistance of a comb.
Divide into Sections
Section your hair into 4 to 8 equal sections as per your preference. The more sectioned, the more braids.
Use Hair Cream or Gel
Apply hair gel or pomade to fix the frizz and wash the hair.
Start Braiding
Braid back down from the front starting in each section. Use hair extensions for added thickness or length.
Tuck in Ends
Tuck under with firm mini elastic bands or wrap around with yarn when reaching the end of each braid.
Add Final Details
Or, soak ends in hot water to soften, or tie up hair doo’s like cuffs or beads on for an extra oomph.
And there you are. You now own Pop Smoke braids that will turn heads.
Types of Pop Smoke Braids
Pop Smoke braids exist in so many variations. You can even personalize them according to your personality, style, or event.
Traditional Middle Part Braids
This is the traditional Pop Smoke – neat braided hair with a middle part and buckled at the back.
Pop Smoke Braids with Fade
Mix of braids and fade for streetfashion look.
Pop Smoke Braids with Beads
Attach small gold or wooden beads at the end to give cultural or artistry enrichment.
Two-Tone Pop Smoke Braids
Use color extensions like red, blonde, or blue to give an amazing look.
Pop Smoke Braids with Waves
Zigzag or wavy parts add an edgy touch to the hairstyle to make it more innovative and youthful.
Pop Smoke Braids for Ladies
Looser and more lengthier ones, perhaps curled or wavy at ends.
They are all unique but with the same energy and attitude.
How to Take Care of Pop Smoke Braids Health
It is easy to maintain your braids health and freshness if you own some of these routines.
- Sleep with a satin or silk scarf wrapped around your hair to keep it away from frizz.
• Spray your hair lightly with light oil or spray lightly on moisturizer to avoid drying out of the hair.
• Do not scratch the scalp; massage the scalp gently if it becomes inflamed.
• Clean the scalp gently with mild shampoo as required with a damp cloth.
• Do not keep the braids for more than 4–6 weeks to prevent hair breakage.
If well taken care of, Pop Smoke braids can last very long without any touch-up.
Advantages of Pop Smoke Braids
Pop Smoke braids are not only stylish but also good for your hair and require minimal care.
The greatest advantages are the following:
• Low maintenance – barely any styling every day.
• It protects your natural hair from heat and dust.
• It prevents tangling and breaking of hair.
• Clean, rugged appearance.
• All hair length and texture.
• For male and female, as well as all ages.
They are a shielded style where your hair will grow yet still look trendy.
Mistakes to Avoid
Though they are low maintenance, there are a few errors that will have the Pop Smoke braids appearing cheap or ruin your hair.
- Braiding too tight – results in hair loss and headache.
• Not massaging the scalp – leads to dandruff or dryness.
• Braiding for a very long time – loosens the hair roots.
• Applying too much product or gel – makes hair dirty and stiff.
• Not protecting the hair at night – leads to tangling and frizz.
Clean hair, gentle hands, and proper care are the secret to fashion-forward, scalp-friendly braids.
Pop Smoke Braids and Fashion
Pop Smoke braids are a massive streetwear and pop culture phenomenon. They complement hoodies, gold chain jewelry, denim, and sneakers.
They are worn by stars, sports stars, and influencers with pride, providing the identity and fashion sense to different communities. The trend has evolved from hip-hop music videos to catwalks.
It is not even a haircut, but a movement of freedom and creativity.
Celebrities Who Slay Pop Smoke Braids
Nearly all of the celebrities have murdered the look, their way.
- Pop Smoke – the trendsetter.
• Travis Scott – braiding streetwear.
• A$AP Rocky – high-fashion combination of braids.
• Lil Durk – colors and patterns to the style.
• Swae Lee – playfulness and creativity to the style.
• Alicia Keys and Zendaya – low-key feminine version of Pop Smoke braids.
They all show how versatile the style is.
Interesting Pop Smoke Braids Facts
- The haircut went mainstream globally in 2020.
• The haircut is a mixture of African cornrows and modern hip-hop culture.
• Pop Smoke inspired fans around the world to adopt braids.
• The haircut looks good with identical under-hats or durags.
• Stylists are now experts at doing Pop Smoke braids per client.
It is a look that brings together culture, art, and street life and puts them into one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Are Pop Smoke braids suitable for women?
Yes, Pop Smoke braids are man and woman.
Q2. For how long do Pop Smoke braids last?
4 to 6 weeks if properly maintained.
Q3. Can Pop Smoke braids be washed?
Yes, gently wash your scalp with shampoo and water.
Q4. Do they hurt when I style them?
Yes, when tightly braided, they hurt. Request your stylist to braid loosely.
Q5. Can I wear them to bed?
Yes, but just sleep in a satin or silk cap.
Pop Smoke braids represent the perfect blend of culture, confidence, and individuality. They remind everyone of the rapper’s memory while giving people an avenue of expression through fashion.
They are easy to wear, so fashionable, and perfect for any occasion. If you are at the office, school, or on stage, Pop Smoke braids will make your stand tall.
Call to Action: Experience Pop Smoke braids today at the parlor nearby and get the beat, the style, and the vibe. It is not a cut, it is an attitude that speaks without words.
Visual Concept: Collage of men and women wearing Pop Smoke braids under various scenarios, music recording studio, streetwear photo shoot, and daily life.