Box Braids is a new hairstyle of African origin that combines synthetic hair with natural hair, giving it a braided appearance.
Box braids are braids of African origin that have been gaining more and more space in the hair world. By joining the synthetic strand with the natural hair strand, when placing the braids, the appearance is of longer but braided hair. Therefore, it is perfect for those who want to give a completely new look and help or restore their hair after hair treatments, such as the big chop.
In this way, it is a style that has won over men and women, and the look it leaves is very stylish. Thus, in addition to composing the style, they also help in several other aspects, being fundamental in the hair transition process, helping the strands to grow strong and natural. Therefore, for those who have two types of hair texture, box braids also help it to grow naturally.
So, if you are interested in braiding your hair, but don’t know how, where or when to take part in the process, this post will help you find out. In this way, it is always good to try to analyze and understand the symbology and identity that wearing braids carries before using it, for anyone who is going to use it.
What types of synthetic threads are there?
There are three types of fibers to use in box braids. First, and the most common for use, is the Jumbo. In addition to having a lighter thread, it also has a thicker thread, making it easier to braid. In short, it still has a more affordable price. So, if you are doing it for the first time, for better adaptation it is the best option.
Secondly, the type of fiber is Kanakalon, being a heavier type of yarn, which can be a bit uncomfortable for those who are not used to this extra weight. Furthermore, it is more slippery, which means it takes longer to braid. However, it is not recommended for those who are going to start using the braid style.
In third place is the least used yarn, but it is still a good choice, which is wool yarn, in addition to being colorful, it is medium weight. Therefore, they are a choice for those who like to mix colors and looks, and for those who want to be bold with their hair. It has a lower cost than other threads, but not all of them adhere to the color.
What will I feel?
To put on box braids, it all depends on how you want them because the braiding process, as mentioned above, is the act of joining synthetic strands to natural hair. So, what you will feel will largely depend on your braider and how long you want your hair to be.
The first time you put it on, it is normal to feel more discomfort than usual, after all, it is your first time experiencing the weight. In short, it is common to feel some pinching when placing the wires, but with practice, they become less uncomfortable.
What is the braiding process like?
One of the fundamental parts of the process is choosing a good trancista. Therefore, box braids need to be placed correctly. This way, the procedure can last from two to six or more hours, again, depending on how long your hair will be and also the experience of whoever is doing it. As the braids are very tight, it is easy to confuse discomfort with pain. However, it is important to remember that box braids cannot be too tight.
Box braids that are too tight can cause damage to the scalp. This way, instead of helping the hair to grow stronger, they end up damaging it. Therefore, it is important to stay aware of this issue so as not to end up having future problems.
How to choose a trancista
The choice of braider greatly influences the success of your box braids. Therefore, it is necessary to choose very carefully who will be the lucky person to perform the procedure on you. Therefore, before choosing anyone, research a lot about who they are and their work as well.
References are also very important. So, knowing someone who has braided hair with the person you are looking for, and more importantly, who had good results, is a positive sign. Therefore, if you don’t know anyone who has already done this for references, it’s a good idea to search Facebook groups, or even ask at the store where you’re going to buy the yarn.
Care and maintenance of box braids
Each application of threads can last up to three months, and it is recommended that it should not last longer than that. Between one braid and another, it is also recommended that you leave it off for a few days, so that your hair can breathe, as well as your scalp. It’s interesting, along with this, to schedule a hair schedule for when you don’t have your braids, so that your hair becomes even stronger.
While you have the braids, you need to be careful. Firstly, wash your hair gently once a week. Secondly, be very careful with the roots, and only use shampoo to wash your hair, being careful not to apply too much force and undo the braids.
In short, avoid using conditioners, as the products, when not removed correctly, can leave your hair oily. Therefore, as the process of washing box braids is quite delicate, the chances of not removing all the conditioner are high. Therefore, this can lead to inflammation and fungus on the scalp.
Another precaution that you should take is to ensure that your hair is completely dry when you go to bed. Just like unbraided hair, sleeping with wet hair is the same for your scalp. Therefore, if you want to avoid frizz at bedtime, the tip is to sleep with a turban or cap, to avoid contact with the pillow, depending on your taste.
Do you want to keep up to date with the most varied hairstyles you have? Check out: Afro braids – Origin, types, how they are made and how to care for braids
Sources: To de Cacho Superela
Featured image source: All Things Hair
