Introduction
Box braids are a popular style of protective hairstyle that has been worn by many cultures all over the world. The style is achieved by sectioning off the hair into small squares or “boxes” and then braiding each section. Box braids can be styled in countless ways and offer a low-maintenance solution for those looking to give their natural hair a break from daily styling.
Gather Supplies
Before you start braiding, it’s important to gather the necessary supplies. You will need a rat tail comb, hair clips, rubber bands, and optionally, beads or other accessories for styling. Make sure you have everything you need within reach before beginning.
Prepare Your Hair
Once you have gathered your supplies, it’s time to prepare your hair. Start by detangling your hair with a wide-toothed comb or brush. This will make it easier to create even sections when you begin braiding. Next, part your hair into four equal quadrants using the rat tail comb. Secure each section with a hair clip to keep them separated.
Divide the Hair
Now that you have your hair parted, it’s time to divide it into sections. Start at the back of the head and use the rat tail comb to create even sections. The size of the sections will depend on how large or small you want your braids to be. For larger braids, create sections that are about 1 inch thick. For smaller braids, create sections that are about ½ inch thick. When finished, secure each section with a rubber band.
Start Braiding
Once your hair is divided into sections, it’s time to start braiding. Begin at the back of the head and take one section at a time. Separate the section into three even strands and then cross the right strand over the middle strand. Then, cross the left strand over the middle strand. Continue crossing the strands over each other until you reach the end of the section. Secure the end with a rubber band.
Repeat this process for each section until all of your hair is braided. There are several techniques you can use to create different types of braids. For example, you can try a French braid, Dutch braid, or fishtail braid. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you.
Secure the Ends
When you have finished braiding all of your sections, it’s time to secure the ends. You can use a rubber band to tie off the ends of each braid. Alternatively, you can use beads or other accessories to give your braids a more finished look. If you choose to use beads, make sure they are secured tightly to prevent them from slipping off.
Style the Braids
Once all of your braids are finished and secured, it’s time to style them. There are countless ways to style box braids, from simple updos to intricate designs. Some popular styles include high ponytails, half-up/half-down looks, and braided pigtails. Experiment with different styles to find what works best for you.
Maintain Braids
Finally, it’s important to maintain your braids to keep them looking fresh. Start by washing your scalp once a week with a gentle shampoo. Avoid getting the braids wet as much as possible, as this can cause them to unravel. Additionally, make sure to oil your scalp regularly to keep it moisturized.
Conclusion
Box braids are a versatile and low-maintenance style that can be worn in countless ways. To get started, gather your supplies, prepare your hair, divide it into sections, and start braiding. Remember to secure the ends and experiment with different styling options. Finally, make sure to wash and oil your scalp regularly to keep your braids looking fresh.
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