Braids have been a staple in the world of hairstyling, offering not only a beautiful aesthetic but also a practical solution for managing hair.
Among the myriad of braiding styles, box braids stand out for their versatility and chic appeal.
Looking for a good box braids how to guide?
Whether you’re a braiding pro or a beginner looking to level up your styling game, this step-by-step box braids how to guide will walk you through the process of achieving perfect box braids.
Along the way, I’ll seamlessly integrate some product recommendations to enhance your braiding experience.
READ ALSO: Comparing Feed In Braids Box Braids: A Guide to Choosing and Maintaining 2 Popular Styles
Table of Contents
Box Braids How to: Prepping Your Canvas
Before diving into the braiding adventure, it’s crucial to start with a clean canvas.
Begin by washing your hair with a hydrating shampoo, followed by a nourishing conditioner.
Towel-dry your hair gently, leaving it damp and ready for the styling process ahead.
Detangling Delicately
Detangling is a crucial step in the box braiding journey.
Applying a leave-in conditioner or a detangling spray can make this process smoother, minimizing breakage and ensuring your hair is ready for styling.
A wide-tooth comb or your fingers can be your best allies in gently working out any knots or tangles.
Product Tip: Products like SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner provide the right amount of slip without leaving behind any residue, making your hair more manageable.
Sectioning with Precision
Sectioning sets the foundation for flawless box braids.
Employ a rat-tail comb to divide your hair into neat, equal sections.
The size of these sections dictates the thickness of your braids, so choose wisely based on your desired style.
Secure each section with hair ties or clips to keep the rest of your hair out of the way as you work your braiding magic.
Choosing the Right Tools
Investing in quality braiding hair is paramount for achieving a professional look.
Synthetic braiding hair is a popular and budget-friendly choice, offering an array of colors and lengths.
When selecting your braiding hair, consider your desired braid length and thickness.
Brands like X-Pression and Shuohan offer high-quality synthetic braiding hair options.
Product Tip: To make the braiding process smoother, prep your synthetic hair with a lightweight hair oil. African Pride Moisture Miracle 5 Essential Hair Oils adds a natural sheen to the braiding hair, making it easier to handle and reducing friction during the braiding process.
The Art of Braiding
Now comes the fun part – the actual braiding!
Start by taking a small section of your natural hair and divide it into three equal parts.
Cross the right section over the center, then cross the left section over the center.
Continue this pattern, incorporating small sections of synthetic hair as you go, until you reach the desired length.
Product Tip: Keep your hands moisturized and reduce friction while braiding by using a light braiding gel. AllDay Locks Braid Gel provides the right amount of slip and grip, making the braiding process smoother and more enjoyable.
Maintaining the Elegance
Completing the braiding process is just the beginning of your box braids journey.
To ensure longevity and a polished look, regularly moisturize your scalp and braids with a leave-in conditioner or braid spray to prevent dryness and itching.
Nighttime care is equally important – cover your hair with a satin or silk scarf to minimize frizz and breakage.
Product Tip: African Pride Olive Miracle Braid Sheen Spray is a lightweight, non-greasy formula that provides moisture and shine to your box braids without weighing them down.
Photo credits: Black Curl Magic