One simply cannot resist wearing their hair in protective braids because they are both graceful and aesthetically pleasing. Do you know what are box braids?
Box braids are three-stranded braids with square-shaped parts. Since they are typically completely braided, you can wear them down or in a variety of different ways.
Due to their durability and style, box braids have been popular for many years. We’re going to tell you everything you should know about box braids if you are considering them.
History of Box Braids
Box braids have been in existence since 3500 BC, but Janet Jackson undoubtedly brought them to public attention in the early 1990s. Box Braids has African roots and was popular among Namibian and Nile Valley residents.
Famous celebrities like Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Keke Palmer, and others wear the hairstyle today all over the world., because of its rich appearance and design that dates from years ago.
What Are Box Braids?
The box braids are generally three-strand plaits where a particular section of the hair is divided into three parts and intertwined. A box braid differs from a typical braid in that hair is typically added, and tight tension is applied all throughout the braid to create a polished appearance with no loose strands.
If you picture something similar happening with cornrow braids, the only difference is that only the braid’s root is next to the scalp in a square or other similarly shaped section.
Yes, each hair box or square has been properly divided into squares and is plaited down through the length to create a solid, individual braid that is the thickness you desire.
You will achieve full box braids if you do this, which will result in braids that are evenly spaced and have a similar appearance throughout your head.
The braid needs more length and volume because your hair is divided into squares with a block in each corner. In order to add thickness and length to the braiding at that time, hair bundles or extensions are used.
Here are some cultural-related information about box braids:
Who Are Box Braids Good For?
There are no rules or requirements for becoming a box braid candidate, besides the fact that you have to have hair. Williams advises that the hair be at least 1 ½ inches long for a comfortable attachment of the extension, so even after a significant chop, you can wear box braids.
You can wear box braids regardless of your hair type, whether it be straight, wavy, curly, or coily.
There are different sizes of box braids:
- Small braids are often called micro braids and they’re itty bitty plaits.
- Medium braids, which are the most popular size request, have about the same width as a pencil or pen. We can thank Poetic Justice star, 1993’s Janet Jackson for sporting this iconic look.
- Large braids are chunky and thick and make quite a statement. Between the width of a Crayola marker and a large Sharpie, these plants can vary in size.
If you are interested in doing box braids at home, you can use the below posts to help you make this perfect hairstyle:
- How to Do Box Braids?
- How to Do Bohemian Box Braids?
- How to Loosen Box Braids?
- How to Part Hair for Box Braids?
How Long Do Box Braids Last?
Box braids should last four to six weeks if you take good care of them.
How long your braids will last depends on a number of additional factors, including their size, length, and texture.
Are Box Braids Bad for Your Hair?
The purpose of them is typically to preserve the texture and real hair. Box braids can cause breakage or hair loss if the braid’s knots are made too tightly, though.
So, if you keep your box braids for a decent amount of time with not-so-tight knots, there are no ill effects.
How to Maintain a Braid Out on Natural Hair?
It is easy to maintain and care box braids made out of your real hair. So all you have to do is:
- Keep track of washes
- Moisturize the roots
- Sleep head-covered
- Protect from sun UV rays
- Only airdry
You can easily maintain the good shape of your box braids for up to 10 weeks by simply following these tips.
Related Post: Can You Swim With Box Braids?
How Much Are Box Braids?
Depending on the number of braids you have and how intricate your style is, box braid installation can cost anywhere from $140 to $900.
The final cost is also influenced by your location and your stylist’s level of experience. You should also think about the cost of the braiding hair in addition to the installation costs.
The type of hair you purchase, the style, and the quantity of hair you require all affect the price significantly. For instance, using virgin hair can extend the life of your style.
Conclusion: What Are Box Braids
Box braids are one of the most popular protective styles for good reason. They can be easily customized, durable, and versatile.
Once you have created a new set of box braids, there are many fun ways to design your braids. You have a choice of elegant updos for a special night out or casual, everyday styles.
FAQs About Box Braids
What Are Box Braids Meant For?
This type of hairstyle is a “protective style” (a style which can be worn for a long period of time to let natural hair grow and protect the ends of the hair) and is “boxy”, consisting of square-shaped hair divisions.
What is the Difference Between Box Braids and Regular Braids?
While box braids and knotless braids are similar, knotless braids use a different feed-in method that requires less tension and is kinder to the scalp.
Read More: Knotless Braids Vs Box Braids
Are Box Braids Permanent?
This is a semi-permanent look that needs to be redone or removed after a certain passage of time.
