What are box braids?
Box braids are a type of hair-braiding style, which has been worn by a number of people for, quite literally, thousands of years. It’s a style that is predominantly popular among African culture, where it is believed to have been first noted.
Box braids are three-stranded plaits. Where they have the same format you can spot them easily, according to Curlcentric, by their ‘somewhat boxy, squared-off divisions.’ In addition to this, the style that is said to be “low maintenance, convenient, and cute“, is a consistent hit with hairstylists, as well as being popular with a variety of hair lengths.
Where did box braids originate?
Braids are not new. They’re not a new fashion statement that has made its entrance just in the last 20 or 30 years. It should be noted, that the braiding of hair has been around for thousands, yes thousands, of years. In fact, the origin of braids can be traced back 5000 years in African culture to around 3500 BC. With regards to the braiding of hair, there was more to it than just having hair that looked nice as well as protected. In other words, there was a lot more to it!
Unquestionably, there is a powerful history that leads us to find how braids played a vital role during the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Where many were forced to shave their head, to thought to be seen as ‘more sanitary‘ but also to ‘move them away from their culture [as well as] identity‘ Many were able to braid their hair tightly, which resulted in a number of people being able to use cornrow braiding to transfer maps on how to escape plantations.
How long does my hair have to be for box braids?
The exciting prospect of box braids is that although you may notice a large number of women, as well as men, wearing braids at a longer length you would have also noticed the ever-popular short box braid styles.
According to website thirstyroots.com, it is recommended that the average hair length a stylist can catch is around 4 inches. However, excitingly, a highly-skilled stylist may even be able to do so with as little as 2 inches.
Hair types and the sizing of box braids
According to hairstylist Dr Kari Williams, she recommends avoiding braids that are too big if your hair is fine, as you don’t want to increase the chance of damaging your hair due to the weight. In comparison, however, she also states that if you have really thick hair you should avoid the alternative smaller braids because, like before, the weight of excessive amounts of them can result in additional unwanted thickness and, therefore, a lot more weight.
What hair do you use for box braids?
It would be easy to assume that the go-to for your braids would need to be expensive human hair, however, you can use synthetic hair too! A type, known as Kanekalon, is a synthetic fiber that not only feels like human hair but as it is inherently flame retardant it makes it susceptible to withstand the heat needed to seal the ends of your braids.
How long do box braids last? Also, how long should you keep box braids in?
It’s recommended that you shouldn’t keep your braids in for any more than a maximum of 8 weeks. However, do note that it is not as simple as removing them roughly. You’ll need to make sure that in order to protect your hair, as well as not damage any hair follicles, that you take the necessary steps to remove them safely.
It’s worth noting that finished knotless styles can last from four to six weeks.
How to Box Braid Natural Hair
You may assume that by using box braids you should have some type of extension attached to your hair. But this is not always the case! Using box braids WITH natural hair allows you to protect your hair without causing any tension or pressure which can be brought on by the use of heavy hair extensions.
To begin with, you want to make sure that you start with freshly washed hair. Viewing the video we have attached below you should be able to see how the overall use of products is still important, it is just essential that you use the correct ones.
How to do box braids yourself?
Like most things in life, practice makes perfect! Learning how to box braid your hair may feel tricky at first but the more you repeat it the quicker you’ll get a hang of it! Importantly, you’ll be installing your own style like a professional!
Following the recommendations from Perfect Locks, we suggest you begin with clean as well as conditioned hair. Once your hair has dried we suggest you get comfy before beginning!
You have the choice of braiding your natural hair and/or attaching synthetic hair to provide extra colour, length and even volume. After you’ve shampooed and conditioned your hair you’ll want to make sure you’ve allowed it to dry.
Combing
Combing your hair is important in general, nevermind before braiding! You can use a wide-tooth comb, typically available in most pharmacies, to remove any tangles. It’s best to start at the bottom of the hair and work your way up, as it stops all pressure from the tangle being against the roots.
Heat Protection
If you plan on using a heated product, for example, a hairdryer, then you’ll want to use some heat protection. Be sure to add this liberally.
Cutting split ends
If you plan on using extensions to your braids then it’s important that they attach to clean-cut ends, as it makes them less likely to fall out or not be attached correctly in the first place.
Dividing
Using your wide-tooth comb from earlier, you now want to use it to split the hair into four sections. you can do this by centering your hair into the middle, then lift the top part of your hair from around your ears away from the lower part. You should check how this looks in a mirror to make sure you’ve sectioned them correctly.
Here are a couple of our favorite box braid tutorials to complete after successfully dividing your hair:
How long does it take to box braid your hair?
How long it takes to box braid your hair depends on how long, as well as how thick your hair is, to begin with! According to HowtoBlackHair.com, you should expect to be braiding for at least 4-8 hours, however, this depends on your experience and could be much longer.
How to seal box braids yourself?
Thankfully, there are a number of ways you can seal your box braids. Here we go through ways you can safely seal your braids and not have to worry about them unraveling.
Straighten the Ends
Using a hair straightening ironing you can seal your braids with the heat. Do note that this may be best with synthetic (and heat safe) hair, otherwise you will be burning your own hair strands.
Get Rid of Blunt Ends
A popular video on YouTube, this one goes through the steps where you can feather and prep Kanekalon hair in a way that will get rid of those blunt ends.
Sealing using water
This method is proven to work and stop those ends unraveling. It also saves you having to use heat, such as a flat iron or lighter, which can result in the smell of burning hair.
Using a lighter to seal the braid
This is a known method that seals the hair immediately. The only downside is that flames result in heat and with heat mixing with fibers can result in = a smell. Also, be careful to not burn your fingertips!
Where to get box braids done?
First and foremost, you really must make sure that if you’re looking for somewhere to get them done then you want to know the stylist is not only experienced in giving you the style you want but also that they’ve had good reviews. The time it takes to braid your hair is looooong. The last thing you want is to spend 5 hours in a chair to only walk out the door hating your hair. So, we always recommend that if you don’t know anyone personally who can recommend someone to you that you get doing your own research. Search on Facebook, pop a query on Twitter and spend a short period of time scrolling through your local area on Instagram with #boxbraids.
How many packs of hair do you need for box braids?
In spite of planning, it is not easy to just guess how many packs of hair you’ll need. This will depend, importantly, on your hair type. In addition, it will also depend on what length you are aiming for. It’s suggested by BlackHairTribe that you may need as many as 8-10 packs of Kanekalon hair, so it’s always best to over-prepare instead of running out before you’ve finished.
How to care for box braids?
Maintaining your box braids is a must!
To begin with, we thoroughly suggest that you care for your hair before you even begin any type of braiding. You can do this by ensuring you correctly condition your hair after washing. Why? This will be the last opportunity you will have to add extra moisture, as well as strength, to your hair before you braid it. It is also important to wash your hair so that you are getting rid of any build-up, grease or oil in your hair before you begin to add in your box braids.
Whilst braiding you may also want to add a product to your hair. Here we’ve compiled some products you might want to invest in to get the best results.
African Pride Black Castor Miracle Braid & Scalp Cleansing Rinse
£4.99
The perfect product for cleansing and conditioning your hair. This product is said to perfect for cleansing during braided styles as well as under weaves. It helps soothe the scalp along with protecting the style. With ingredients like coconut oil, it’s not hard to see its soothing attraction.
Shea Moisture Jojoba Oil & Ucuuba Butter Braid Up Conditioning Gel
£ 12.99
This product works as an aid to help create both simple and complex braided hairstyles. The mixture results in a super-hydrating yet non-greasy formula. We love it.
CANTU Edges Baby Hair Styler
Many products will do amazing jobs, but sometimes you just need a good tool! This 2-in-1 styler is made to ‘sculpt the edges with ease‘. It’s designed for a variety of hair types, such as thick, curly and coily. It also helps to distribute naturals oils, creating a gentle shine.
Ampro Extra Hold Shine’N Jam Conditioning Gel
£12.99
Beauty store staple and a firm favourite are Ampro Shine ‘N Jam Conditioning Gel. A moisturising yet non-flaking gel that provides an extra firm hold. It is also free of alcohol, silicones, parabens wax and petrolatum.
Mane ‘n Tail Braid Sheen
We absolutely love Mane ‘n Tail Shampoo, so we were over the moon when we discovered this Braid Sheen range. Providing ultimate control, as well as protection and sheen, this product is perfect for braids, weaves and hair extensions (both natural and synthetic).
£8.95 | Shop Now @ BeautyBay
Extra Tips for Hair Braiding
Additionally, in order for them to last longer, hairstylist Jennifer Vanel recommends that they are tight to the root. Furthermore, you should use a silk pillowcase, as well as avoiding the use of too many unnecessary products as this will result in a build-up, resulting in flyaway or fizziness.
How to wear your braids all year round?
Add some colour into your braids, like the image here showcasing a mixture of colours with a predominantly blue shade doing the talking.
Throw your hair into an elegant ‘messy bun’ all the while looking the part. Perfect to keep you cool on warmer days too!
A little more complicated, but with intricate detail this style is perfect for an event.
The vibrancy, whatever the time of year, adds perfect colour tones.
How should you style box braids for work?
Styling your box braids is super easy, super fun and, importantly, gives you the chance to be fully creative with your hair.
Below we’ve built a gallery of just a few of our favourite styled do’s when rocking the box braid look.
How to remove box braids from your own hair?
This process can be tedious, according to Jennifer Vanel. Nevertheless, she suggests that you have someone to help you. In particular, you should start at the bottom of your hair and unwrap your hair using a comb. It’s also worth noting that if you’ve had your braids bound using heat (not bands) then you’ll have to cut the ends beforehand.
Types of box braids
There are a number of different types of box braids from Crotchet to Ghana braids. Here we’ll go through our favourites from some amazing Instagram accounts. Be sure to check them out!
Crotchet Box Braid
Bohemian Box Braid
Knotless Box Braid
Ghana Braid
Middle Parting Ghana Braids
Poetic Justice Braids
Goddess Braids
Pop Smoke Braids
Jumbo Box Braids
Large Bottom-Back Box Braid
Starter Loc Rope Twists
Knotless Side Braids
Big Box Braids
Jumbo Zig Zag Parting Braids
Faux Box Braids
Egyptian Braids
Large Knotless Braids
Lemonade Braids
Blonde Box Braids
Trail Braids
Added colour box braids
Rubber Band Box Braid
More Box Braids we just love
So, what’s your favourite style? As well as this we’d love to hear what your favourite go-to braid is or whether you’re trying them out for the first time. Get in touch!