Box braids are usually the first style the comes to everyone’s mind when they think of protective styles and for a good reason—they’re gorgeous. Whether you decide on a regal bob or waist length strands, box braids are always chic.
The beauty of box braids is that they’re so versatile. But, just in case the sheer number of styling options is making it difficult to decide what to do with your braids, we’ve rounded up our five favorite hairstyles for you to choose from.
How To Care For Box Braids
Before you call up a braider and make an appointment, you should understand the kind of upkeep and maintenance box braids require. The most important step in the care of any braided style is to make sure your braids are installed properly. The worst mistake you can make when getting braids is having your hair braided too tightly. Any style that puts unnecessary pressure on your hair and scalp puts you at risk of developing traction alopecia, a form of hair loss that can be caused by pulling associated with tight styles such as braids, buns, and ponytails.
Constantly styling your hair in ways that require pulling can cause scarring and potentially permanent hair loss. It is imperative that you speak up if you feel like your stylist is pulling too tightly—staying silent could cost you your hair.
The great thing about braids is that with proper care they can often last several weeks. However, just because you’re wearing one hairstyle for weeks doesn’t mean you can slack off on your hair care routine. Just like when your hair isn’t braided, your hair and scalp need lots of love to stay healthy. If you’re keeping your braids in for longer than a week, you’ll need to wash your hair while it remains braided. Shampoo your hair like you normally would, making sure to be gentle so as not to disturb your style too much. Follow your shampoo with a hydrating conditioner to make sure your hair looks and feels moisturized. We love Mizani’s Moisture Fusion Moisture Rich Shampoo and Moisture Fusion Intense Moisturizing Mask.
Once you’ve washed and conditioned your hair, you’ll need to make sure it’s completely dry before styling. If you’ve added extra hair to your style, you may want to use a blow dryer or hooded dryer to make sure your mane is 100 percent dry. If you leave your hair damp (particularly near the scalp), you run the risk of developing dandruff, fungus, or even mildew.
If you don’t have time to wash and condition your hair completely, invest in a good astringent—we recommend witch hazel. It can help remove dirt and buildup, keeping your scalp healthy between washes. Apply the astringent with cotton swabs to ensure you clean every nook and cranny of your scalp is left feeling clean.
The Best Box Braid Hairstyles To Try Now
Good hair day by @briellehair.
Box Braid Ballerina Bun
Round up some bobby pins and a couple of hair elastics. Gather all of your braids on the top of your head and use an elastic to fasten a ponytail. If your braids are very thick, you may want to consider using a shoelace instead of an elastic to prevent your elastic from snapping.
If you’re having a bit of trouble gathering all of your hair on the top of your head while preparing to tie your ponytail, flip your head over and tie the ponytail while your hair hangs downward. Once you’ve positioned your ponytail, begin to wrap your braids around themselves to form a bun. Use bobby pins to keep your style in place as you go along. Once you’ve pinned the whole bun, use another elastic to ensure no stray braids escape your elegant style.
Good hair day by @briellehair.
Neon Box Braids
If you’ve always wanted to try a fantasy color but just can’t commit to the salon maintenance, consider neon box braids. Ask your braider to use neon-colored hair extensions when they install the braids in your head. Pick one color, or choose a technicolor look for a fantasy color style that lasts only as long as you want it to.
Good hair day by @briellehair.
Platinum Blonde Box Braids
If you’re looking for a show-stopping box braid style, look no further than platinum blonde box braids. A style this Insta-worthy doesn’t just happen in one day. First, you’ll have to make an appointment with a colorist to dye your strands platinum blonde. It’s important to note that bleach will always cause damage, but a seasoned colorist will work with you to improve the look and feel of your strands. Once your mane is your desired hue, make an appointment with your braider for some killer box braids.
Good hair day by @briellehair.
Red Box Braids
Platinum not really your thing? Opt for red box braids instead. It’s one of the easiest ways to get in the holiday season without going too overboard.
Good hair day by @briellehair.
Goddess Box Braids
If you love the look of box braids but can’t imagine not slaying your curly hair every day, opt for goddess box braids. To create this look, your braider will use curly hair extensions when installing your braids, allowing the curly ends to take on a life of their own.
Interested in professionally styled box braids? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
