Everything You Need To Know About Box Braids

Thinking of the box

Who could forget Janet Jackson’s look from Poetic Justice in the 90’s? Rings a bell? We’re certain, it did! What about our box braids babe – Beyoncé, Zoë Kravitz and Tia Mowry flaunting this style! From ol’-school chic to new-school drama, the square-parted braids have become one of the most evergreen hairstyles that are here to stay. Here’s everything you need to know about the low-maintenance box braids. Let’s get going!

1. Before You Start

Start by deciding if you are going for a thick look, like Janet Jackson, or for smaller braids. If you have fine hair, opt for a hairstyle you are comfortable carrying around as you would not want the box braids to add up a lot of weight. Learn how to get Taraji P. Henson braided hairstyles.

2. Getting ‘em Ready

Courtesy: Un-ruly

Now that you’ve decided what style you’re going after, you’re almost there! According to experts, relaxing your hair right before you get box braids is not recommended as it might cause pulling or even breakage at the root. Before you get started with braiding, make sure you detangle, shampoo and deep condition your hair to make sure it is clean, knot-free and moisturized. Once you are done with cleaning and conditioning, you’re all set to get braiding!

3. The Process

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Caution: Deciding on doing the box braids yourself could take you through various rounds of doubt and under-confidence. But hey, it’s not all THAT difficult. Start with sectioning your dry locks into four parts. For each section, you have to get your hair in four even squares, i.e your bomb box braids! Starting from the first section, form pinches and start braiding your hair. Continue to braid the entire section from the root to the tip. Make sure that all your parts are even and straight, giving a look of individual tiny boxes. Keep continuing this process for all the remaining sections.

Also check that your braids are not too tight or pulling your scalp, causing any kind of discomfort. It might cause a lot of stress on the hair, leading to thinning. As said, good things take time, it’ll all be worth it once you see the final look!

4. Keep Up With The Hair Care

Courtesy: Elle

One of the biggest misconceptions about box braids is that you do not need to maintain it regularly. Nah ah sista! They may be low-maintenance but are not maintenance free. To keep the style as is and not end up with dreadlocks, make sure you clean your scalp and keep it moisturized. Dr. Miracle’s Gro Oil will help you keep the look spot on and avoid dryness and breakage of your natural hair.

Worried about how to wash your braids? Check out How To Wash African-American Braids.