When it comes to popular hairstyles, some come and go (cough, mullet) but others withstand the test of time. One of those styles that we don’t see dying off anytime soon is box braids. They’re cute, sleek, and super convenient. Plus, celebrities are sporting box braids left and right, which only makes us want to take the plunge even more. Show
And while the style is certainly not a new trend, it’s one of those styles you’ll want to learn all about before taking the plunge because it actually takes some serious commitment. Ahead, we tapped box braid expert and celebrity hairstylist at Mahogany Hair Revolution in Los Angeles, Dr. Kari Williams, to give you the scoop on what box braids are, where they come from, how to get them and how to take care of them. What are box braids?Although box braids are popping up all over your Insta feed, these waist-grazing braids are no new invention. Williams suggests that braids originated in Africa and date back thousands of years to local tribes. And truth be told, the style hasn’t evolved much since its debut so in a way, this style still represents the beauty of African culture. More From Good Housekeeping Visually, box braids simply look like a bunch of braids all-over the head. As for the box in the box braids, well, that has to do with the parting method. Traditionally, box braids are created with a square of box parting pattern, but this isn’t a requirement.
These braids are not only a go-to for giving women a break from styling their hair, but box braids are also known as a protective style sought after in the natural hair community. In short, a protective style is a styling option that keeps your ends protected and the hair from environmental factors, heat styling, friction against clothing and any other factors that may be causing damage or breakage. Who are box braids good for?There are no rules or requirements for becoming a box braid candidate, besides that fact that you have to have hair. Williams recommends the hair be at least 1 ½ inches long for a comfortable attachment of the extension which means you can sport box braids even after a big chop. As for texture, every hair type is fair game: No matter if you’re straight, wavy, curly or coily, you can sport box braids with ease. There are different sizes of box braids:
What’s the process like?Before you head to the salon, here's what you need to know:
How long do box braids last?After your full-day appointment, you can expect your box braids to last a total of four to six weeks without a touch up, if maintenance is kept up (including trimming away extension fly-aways, keeping edges smooth and hydrated, and ensuring your scalp health is in tip-top shape). To extend the life of your braids, protect them while you snooze: Use a silk or satin cap, scarf, or pillowcase to avoid as much frizz-inducing friction as possible while you sleep. And if all else fails and your braids are looking old within a few weeks, visit your stylist for a hairline touch-up. How much do box braids cost?The cost of your installation is determined by the size and length of your style, as well as where you live, but Williams says you can expect to pay anywhere between $200-900 for the installation. And keep in mind that highly skilled technicians will come at a higher price point. Is it true that box braids can damage your hair?It’s been said that some protective styles using extensions, like box braids, can cause damage to the hair or scalp, but Williams says this is only the case if the braids are installed or removed incorrectly. “The hair becomes ruined when the braids are installed improperly with too much tension or weight.” To prevent damage, make sure you follow these pro tips:
Carol's Daughter Wash Day DelightCredit: Carol's Daughter Root Rinse for Box Braids Cantu Apple Cider Vinegar Root RinseCredit: Cantu Dry Oil Spray for Box Braids It's a 10 Haircare Miracle Dry Oil Spray Plus Keratin with Argan OilCredit: It's a 10 Haircare Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Edge GelCredit: Mielle Organics Do box braids require after care?Like all protective styles, box braids are meant to be low maintenance and cut you some slack in the morning when it comes to styling your hair. But there is some maintenance that is required to keep your braids looking and feeling fresh for longer. The biggest maintenance requirement is moisturizing: Yes, even though your hair is intertwined with extensions, it still needs moisture! This is even more critical if you plan to wash your braids with shampoo to avoid product buildup. Be sure to give your scalp a little TLC, too. Williams says you can wash your braids with shampoo, but make sure the cleanser is a gentle, hydrating formula and your frequency isn't too often that your braids begin to loosen or frizz. For most curly hair types, washing braids once a week should suffice. As you wash, you want to avoid any rough movements or scrubbing. Focus on cleansing the scalp first and then move hands in a downward motion to gently cleanse the length of your braids. Even better if you can find a cleanser or scalp purifier that can be applied with a nozzle tip to ensure you’re sloughing away all dirt and debris from the scalp. In most cases, you don't need conditioner, but if the ends of your braids need some sprucing, feel free to add a dollop of conditioner to the ends only! Andrea Jordan is a freelance writer covering all things beauty, lifestyle, health and parenting. Her work has appeared on websites like OprahMag, Business Insider, StyleCaster, InStyle, and others. When she’s not writing, you can find her curled up on the couch reading a book or in the kitchen whipping up a new recipe. Can straight hair hold box braids?As for texture, every hair type is fair game: No matter if you're straight, wavy, curly or coily, you can sport box braids with ease.
How long do straight hair braids last?Although braids can last anywhere between two to eight weeks depending on which kind you go for and how you wear them, you should be prepared to cleanse roughly every two to three weeks. If you've been swimming (or happen to sweat a lot), your scalp will require a bit of TLC.
Can braiding straight hair damage it?Yes, tight braiding and weaves—even tight buns and ponytails—when worn over long periods of time can cause irreversible hair loss, called traction alopecia (baldness). This is because chronic pulling of the hair causes too much tension and traction on the follicles, causing them to permanently dislodge from the scalp.
How long do braids last on Caucasian hair?This protective hairstyle will last only up to two weeks on Caucasian hair.
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