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What Are Box Braids?

Updated: Oct 4, 2022


box braids

Black women cycle through different protective hairstyles with box braids being one of the most popular. Box braids are stylish and they also give you the chance to give your hair a break. It is for this reason and more that many celebrities have made it their go-to hair.


What Are Box Braids?


Box braids are individual plaits that are commonly divided into small boxes or square sections. They are regarded as a protective hairstyle with boxy hair separations that are meant to protect your hair. To create box braids, hair extensions are usually used. Box braid is a term that emanates from how each hair braid is divided into a box of hair.


Nowadays, creativity in hair styling continues, and there are different ways to create box braids. Box braids can be of any length and width. For fullness, thickness, and length, most women add natural or synthetic hair to their braid.


One standout feature of these braids is that they can be manipulated into many different styles since there are not attached to the scalp. Completing the style may take some time, but when finished is usually beautiful and will last for a while.


Installing Regular Braids


When it comes to wearing braids and twists, there are several different choices. Moreover, cuter choices are being created every day. Some of the most popular braiding styles include poetic braiding styles, Ghana braids, goddess braids, and crochet braids. You must also consider the color, length, and thickness before selecting the style you want.


When creating braiding styles, many women make use of hair extensions. It is recommended that you use human hair extensions when possible. Although human hair is costlier than synthetic hair extensions, they still help create a more natural-looking box braid.


Additionally, it is important when making a box braid that you do not install it too tight. They can significantly damage your hair if they are installed too tight. Tight braids can result in hair loss, so ensure that you keep your hair and scalp clean. It is also great that you always cover your hair at night to ensure that your box braids continue to look good and last longer.


Furthermore, your hair must be taken care of during the installation and removal processes, and what is more important is that you do not install your twists or braids too tightly. This will help you avoid suffering permanent hair loss because you incorrectly installed your box braids.


Box braids remain a vital part of many African American girls' arsenal. It is among the hairstyles that require low maintenance and also allows you to keep your natural hair out of the way and away from being manipulated. Because of its versatility, you can always use box braids to show off your hair.


There are many ways to style them and show them off once they are installed. In the process of deciding to wear box braids, ensure that you first consider the size, length, and color that you want.


What Are the Popular Box Braid Styles?


Due to their versatility, box braids can be styled in various ways like in a bob, or bun, using different sized braids. Below are some popular styles that you may want to consider.


Bob