The perfect type of box braids will transform any look in seconds no matter the length or size. The sizes of box braids tend to play lots of roles in how to care for your braids and it kind of also indicates how long your braids will last.
Box braids are also known as individual braids, or free-hanging braids if it is without extension, and they happen to be one of the most popular types of braids.
Box braids are without doubt the best type of protective hairstyle for any hair type, it is pretty versatile, but it does take some patience to maintain, and you can expect them to last for a very long time.
Box braids will last 4 to 6 weeks if it is well maintained. You might have to trim it regularly to tame flyaway and keep it looking tidy however it is a protective hairstyle that is known to last a very long time. Box braids are not exactly like other types of braids that are done close to the scalp, hence why they last longer.
Box braids are not that easier to make at home compared to other types of braids especially with extension although with patience and practice you should be able to achieve them. So, if you are wondering how long they will last after installation then this blog post is for you.
History Of Box Braids And How They Are Made
Box braids are not new, they have been around for centuries. It originated in South Africa and its history goes back to 3500 BC. This braid has been around for so long that we can say it is what brings about the era of other types of braids like Ghana weaving, cornrows, and the rest.
When box braids were first introduced and were becoming popular, many believed that if a woman can make box braids then she is a woman of wealth. Currently, a good number of us will still agree with the notion since extensions for making braids are quite expensive, but it is too elegant and beautiful to not get.
There are lots of step-by-step tutorials online on how to box braids, so you can make it at home yourself. One of the reasons box braids are popular is that they suit all kinds of hair textures, and they can also be worn for several occasions.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a box braid.
- First, ensure your hair is washed and apply some serum to give texture to your strands
- The next part is in the middle with the line starting from the forehead to the nape of the neck
- Tuck one side into a bun then start braiding the other part
- Braid by splitting the hair into three strands and pulling back, and you can braid to any side you want
- Braid till it reaches the nape of your neck, and ensure it is tight, so it looks tidy. Braid the second part the same way.
How Long Do Box Braids Last?
Box braids should last 4 weeks depending on how you maintain them and how tight it is. Box braid is a very stylish and elegant protective hairstyle, and they are several ways box braids can be done which in turn determines how long it will last. Tight small box braids should last 6 weeks if you have a soft textured hair type, but it won’t last that long on 4c natural hair.
If you like a polished box braid that will last for 4 to 6 weeks, you have to keep it tight and ensure all strands are secured. This hairstyle tends to take time especially if you plan on keeping it for a long time. However, it can work for as long as you want if you plait it tight enough and regular maintenance.
6 Weeks is the most time box braids are recommended to last. It is cool to leave box braids for longer than a month or 2 but do not leave them longer than 2 months unless you are planning to maintain them with moisturizer and touch-ups which can still cause dirt accumulation on your scalp over time.
Factors that can influence how long your box braid lasts include Personal hair growth rate if it’s tight or loose, and the length. Your hairstylist after installing will tell you how long it should last before you take it out.
Maintenance Tips For Box Braids
Before installing box braids, you must know what to expect, know how long it will last and how some factors can alter how long you plan to wear it. But most importantly, you need to learn how to maintain your box braids while also keeping your hair healthy.
Here are maintenance tips for box braids below.
- Moisturize to keep your hair and braids healthy, whether its hot oil or a simple spritz of water
- Use leave-in Conditioner
- Avoid over styling
- Wash every 2 weeks
- Practice proper night care which can include wearing a bonnet and massaging with oil
- Trim flyways
- Know when it’s time to take it out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do box braids help your hair grow?
No, box braids can keep your hair protected from many external damages, but they won’t grow your hair like many now believe. Box braid is a popular hairstyle, and it can assist with length retention since combing every time you style comes with the risk of breakage.
What’s the longest you should keep box braids?
6 weeks is the longest hairstylists do recommend you keep your box braids but if they are micro braids or are well maintained then 2 months can be the max. But for optimal health of your hair, the longest you should keep box braids in is 6 weeks.
Should you wash braids?
Yes, to keep your hair healthy, you should consider washing your braid every 2 or 3 weeks especially if you plan to wear it for a long time. Washing your braids helps get rid of the build-up of products and dry skin on your scalp.
Do box braids damage your hair?
Standard box braids require you to add an extension and that can cause some tension on your scalp due to the tugging and grasping. Keeping your box braid in for several months can also cause your hair to become extremely dry but with the right technique and proper care, a box braid should not damage your hair.
Wrapping Up
Box braid is more than just a hairstyle, it is more a way of making a statement without having to say a word.
It is a stylish and great protective hairstyle, but they can be a bit hard to maintain, and styling them tends to take time as well which could explain why many people start going for cornrows, but they will always be the ideal and perfect protective hairstyle for many natural hairs.
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