Box braids are a popular and versatile hairstyle that can be worn by people of all ages and hair types. They are a great protective style that can last for several weeks with proper care. In this article, we will show you how to box braid your hair in easy-to-follow steps. Read on to learn more!
Description
Box braids are a type of protective hairstyle that involves braiding small sections of hair into neat and uniform square-shaped braids. The braids can be worn in a variety of styles and lengths, and are often accessorized with beads, shells, or other decorative items. Box braids are a great option for people who want to give their hair a break from daily styling or who are looking for a low-maintenance style that can last for several weeks.
How to Box Braid My Hair
Follow these easy steps to box braid your hair:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start braiding, you will need to gather all the necessary supplies. You will need:
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Rat-tail comb
- Sectioning clips
- Hair elastics
- Braiding hair
- Beads or other decorative items (optional)
Step 2: Wash and Condition Your Hair
Wash and condition your hair using a clarifying shampoo to remove any build-up or residue. Rinse thoroughly and towel dry.
Step 3: Section Your Hair
Using a rat-tail comb, divide your hair into small, square-shaped sections. Secure each section with a sectioning clip.
Step 4: Add Braiding Hair
Take a small section of braiding hair and fold it in half. Place the folded end of the hair under the section of natural hair, and bring the two loose ends over the top of the natural hair and through the loop created by the fold. Pull the hair tight to secure it in place.
Step 5: Start Braiding
Using the three-strand braiding technique, begin braiding the hair. As you braid, add more braiding hair to each section to create the desired thickness and length. Continue braiding until you reach the end of the section.
Step 6: Secure the Braid
Secure the end of the braid with a hair elastic. You can also use a small amount of hair gel or edge control to smooth any flyaways or frizz.
Step 7: Repeat
Repeat steps 4-6 for each section of hair, until all sections have been braided.
Step 8: Style Your Braids
Once all the braids are in place, you can style them in a variety of ways. You can wear them down, pull them back into a ponytail, or create an updo. You can also add beads, shells, or other decorative items to your braids.
Tips
Here are some tips to keep in mind when box braiding your hair:
- Start with clean, dry hair.
- Use high-quality braiding hair that matches your natural hair color and texture.
- Take breaks as needed to avoid hand and arm fatigue.
- Protect your hair at night by wrapping it in a silk scarf or bonnet.
- Avoid using heavy oils or products that can weigh down your braids.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about box braids:
Q: How long do box braids last?
A: Box braids can last for several weeks with proper care. It is recommended to keep them in for no longer than 8 weeks to prevent damage to your hair.
Q: Can I swim or exercise with box braids?
A: Yes, you can swim and exercise with box braids. Just make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly with water and apply a leave-in conditioner afterwards to prevent dryness.
Q: How do I take out box braids?
A: To take out box braids, use a pair of scissors to cut the hair elastic at the end of each braid. Then, gently unravel the braid and remove any remaining braiding hair. Shampoo and condition your hair, and deep condition if necessary.
Hair Care
Proper hair care is essential to maintaining healthy box braids. Here are some hair care tips:
- Wash your hair every 1-2 weeks with a sulfate-free shampoo.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner to keep your hair moisturized.
- Avoid using heat styling tools on your braids.
- Protect your hair at night by wrapping it in a silk scarf or bonnet.
- Avoid pulling or tugging on your braids, as this can cause breakage.
With these easy steps and tips, you can confidently box braid your hair at home. Remember to take your time and be patient, as box braiding can be time-consuming. Good luck!
