Black women are well aware of the significance of braids. A versatile protective style, braiding has been a cultural staple for centuries, serving not only as a means of styling, but also as an avenue of self-expression and celebrating tradition.
Protecting your hair while promoting growth, box braids are one of the most popular of braided styles. They not only are low maintenance, but also lend to an endless world of expression, allowing you to experiment with colors, sizes and lengths. Here’s everything to know about protective box braids, from their cultural roots to a step-by-step guide on how to do them.
What Are Box Braids?
Box braids are a braided hairstyle characterized by individual plaits that are divided into square-shaped sections, or “boxes.” Each braid can vary in thickness and length, making them suitable for a range of styles and personal preferences. Box braids can be created using natural hair, synthetic hair, or a blend of both, allowing for a variety of textures and colors.
This style has its roots in African and African diaspora cultures, where it has been used for generations as a protective method for maintaining healthy hair. The braids help to minimize breakage and damage, making them an excellent choice for those looking to protect their natural hair while still being individual and expressive. Box braids can be worn from several weeks to months with proper care, making them a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.
Boxes Braids Tutorial
Executing the box braid look is both a rewarding and time-consuming process. Make sure to set aside many hours to invest in the process, informed by the thickness of the hair and the size of the braids.
Materials Needed
- Additional hair (if desired for length and volume)
- Hair clips to section your hair
- Comb for parting
- Moisturizing cream or oil to keep hair hydrated
- Edge control for a polished finish
- Scissors for trimming ends
How To Do Box Braids
1.Prep Your Hair: Start with clean, dry, and detangled hair. Apply a moisturizing cream or oil to keep your hair hydrated.
2. Section Your Hair: Use a comb to part your hair into small, square sections. The size of the sections will determine the thickness of your braids. Secure each section with a hair clip to keep them separate.
3. Add Hair: If you’re using hair extensions, take a small piece and fold it in half. Place the folded part at the base of your natural hair section.
4. Start Braiding: Divide the section into three equal parts (including the extra hair). Begin braiding by crossing the right section over the middle, then the left section over the new middle. Repeat this process, incorporating more hair from the section as you go.
5. Continue Down the Length: Braid down to the ends of your hair, ensuring that the braid is tight but not too tight to avoid tension on your scalp. Secure the end with a small hair tie or by melting the synthetic hair if you’re using it.
6. Repeat: Continue this process with the remaining sections of hair until all your hair is braided.
7. Finishing Touches: Once all the braids are complete, you can trim any uneven ends and apply edge control for a neat look. You may also choose to dip the ends of the braids in hot water for a polished finish.
Jumbo Box Braids
Jumbo box braids are a popular variation of box braids, characterized by their thick, chunky sections that lend to a bold, eye-catching look. To create them, follow these same steps, but make sure to part your hair into larger sections. Jumbo box braids tend to be 1-2 inches wide, depending on your desired thickness. They also require an extra amount of synthetic braiding hair, folding it in half and securing it to the natural hair at the root.
Jumbo box braids can last several weeks with proper care, making them an eccentric way to switch up your braided look.
Box Braid Tips
To keep your box braids looking fresh:
- Sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to reduce frizz.
- Keep your scalp moisturized with oil to prevent dryness.
- Limit washing to avoid unraveling the braids.