How To Do Box Braids?

Box braids are a popular and stylish protective hairstyle that has been embraced by people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're looking for a new look or a way to protect your natural hair, box braids are an excellent choice. In this article, we will walk you through the process of creating and maintaining box braids. We will cover what box braids are, how they differ from regular braids, and provide a step-by-step guide for beginners. Additionally, we'll offer tips on how to care for your box braids to ensure they stay looking fabulous.

What Are Box Braids?

Box braids are a type of protective hairstyle that involves braiding synthetic or natural hair extensions into small, square-shaped sections. The name "box braids" comes from the distinctive parting technique used to create the sections. These braids can be customized in terms of length, thickness, and color, making them a versatile choice for expressing your personal style. Box braids offer a break from daily styling and provide your natural hair with protection against environmental elements and potential damage.

What Are the Differences Between Box Braids and Normal Braids?

Box braids differ from traditional braids in several ways:

1. Parting Technique: Box braids use a square parting technique that creates distinct sections of hair, while regular braids are typically created with a free-hanging or continuous hair section.

2. Extension Usage: Box braids often involve adding synthetic or natural hair extensions, resulting in longer and thicker braids, whereas traditional braids are created using only natural hair.

3. Durability: Box braids tend to be more durable and long-lasting compared to regular braids, which may unravel or become loose more easily.

4. Versatility: Box braids are versatile, allowing for various styles and lengths, while traditional braids may have limited styling options.

How To Do Box Braids for Beginners?

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create box braids for beginners:

Materials Needed:

Hair extensions

Rat-tail comb for parting

Hair ties or rubber bands

Hair clips

Hair oil or leave-in conditioner

A crochet hook (optional, for adding extensions)

Steps:

Wash and condition your natural hair, ensuring it's clean and well-moisturized. This step is crucial for the health of your hair.

Use a rat-tail comb to create even, square-shaped sections on your scalp. The size of the sections will determine the thickness of your box braids.

If using extensions, attach them to your natural hair with a crochet hook, starting from the base of each section and working your way down.

Begin braiding from the roots, making sure the tension is even and secure. Continue until you've braided the entire section, leaving a small section at the end unbraided to secure with a hairband.

Repeat the process for all sections until your entire head is covered in box braids.

Dip the unbraided ends in hot water to seal the ends and prevent unraveling. Trim any excess length for a neat finish.

How To Take Care of Box Braids?

Taking care of your box braids is essential to ensure they last and look great throughout their lifespan:

Scalp Care: Keep your scalp clean and moisturized. You can use diluted shampoo or specialized braid spray to clean your scalp without disturbing the braids.

Regular Maintenance: Re-braid any loose or frayed braids, and tighten the roots as needed to maintain the neat appearance.

Protect at Night: Use a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase to protect your braids while you sleep.

Avoid Excessive Tension: Do not style your braids in very tight or heavy hairstyles that can damage your natural hair and cause breakage.

Oil Your Scalp: Apply a lightweight hair oil or leave-in conditioner to your scalp to prevent dryness.

Conclusion:

Box braids are a stylish and versatile protective hairstyle that offers a break from daily hair maintenance while providing protection to your natural hair. Learning how to create and maintain box braids can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with this guide, beginners can confidently embark on their box braiding journey.

Remember to care for your braids diligently to keep them looking fresh and ensure the health of your natural hair. Whether you're looking for a bold new look or seeking a way to protect your hair, box braids are an excellent choice. So, give it a try and flaunt your fabulous box braids with confidence!