If you press links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Meet the Experts
What Are Box Braids?
@_rachilla
For the uninitiated, box braids are three-stranded plaits.
@gabunion
The history of box braids is quite richtheir origin can be traced all the way back to 3500 B.C.
and are a major part of African and African-American culture.
To get added length, volume, and protection, many naturals and relaxed heads opt for extensions.
@_rachilla
Kanekalonis a synthetic fiber that is used in most braiding hair packs.
However, bulk human hair can also be used for a more natural look thats environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Though, this option is pricier and takes a bit more work since its real hair.
Dianne Avery Photography/ Getty Images
Groover agrees with making time for deep, moisture-rich conditioner, but recommends including some added heat.
Hair doesnt have to be bone straight and sleek.
It also minimizes tangling and breakage, which were sure nobody wants with their protective style.
Westend61/ Getty Images
Making a decision becomes easier when you take consideration of your environment, says Hill.
In her own words, The right size depends on your goals and purpose of choosing a braided style.
Are you looking for a Bohemian beach beauty look for your week-long girls trip to the Caribbean?
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/ Getty Images
Or are you looking for a protective style to give your hair fibers a break from styling and manipulation?
I suggest that sections, at minimum, [should] at least be two fingers in width.
Do Box Braids Hurt?
Dia Dipasupil/ Getty Images
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/ Getty Images
As many protective stylers know,traction alopeciacan occur if your braids are too tight.
To ensure that your hair stays intact, youll have to monitor your stylists technique for any discomfort.
If discomfort does occur, Hill advises clients to speak up.
Mauricio Santana/ Getty Images
Address the discomfort immediately, she urges.
The braider should loosen any braid in real-time to reduce discomfort.
Therefore, the instant you feel uncomfortable, you should let your stylist know.
Jason LaVeris / Getty Images
Box braids shouldnt be painful.
What Is the Braiding Process Like?
Dia Dipasupil/ Getty Images
Box braids are not a monolith.
The style can be long or short, thick or thin.
And depending on the look youre going for, the hours you spend in a stylists chair can vary.
On average, a quality braid style can take anywhere from four to eight hours.
How Long Do Box Braids Take to Install?
Box braids are like a choose-your-own adventure story.
If you choose thicker braids with less parts, it might take as little as three to four hours.
If you want longer braids, tack on an extra hour or two.
If you’re looking for thin braids, the process can take as long as eight to 12 hours.
How Much Do Box Braids Cost?
How much hair you’ll need will depend on what style you’re looking for.
How Do You Maintain Box Braids?
The scalp, however, needs a little more TLC since it is the foundation for healthy hair.
Some scalps may need a diluted shampoo every other week or so.
The mixture can sit for five to 10 minutes before it needs to be rinsed under a shower head.
Post-shower, you could apply a moisturizing oil spray and let the braids air-dry to completion.
How Long Do Box Braids Last?
Especially if your braids still look good months after the first installation.
When you’re ready to uninstall your box braids, Groover leaves us with two essential tips.Detanglefirst.
“Detangle the dry hair with only your hands and no product for the first round.
“Taking this extra step can help prevent tangling and excess shedding.
[This] works to soften, condition, and removes knots and buildup from dry, tangled hair.
when you land rinsed out your hair mask, follow up with your regular cleansing and conditioning routine.”
This can result in hair breakage, headaches, and thinning edges.
Billero V, Miteva M. Traction alopecia: the root of the problem.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol.
2018 Apr 6;11:149-159. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S137296.
PMID: 29670386; PMCID: PMC5896661.
Int J Cosmet Sci.
2021 Jun;43(3):321-331. doi: 10.1111/ics.12699.
Epub 2021 Mar 18.
