Box braids have long been a fixture of the Black culture, acting as a protective hairdo and a cultural symbol. Their origins can be dated back to the ancient African tribes, where they were used as a social status symbol rather than a fashion statement. Box braids are now praised for their adaptability and attractiveness, popular among people of various ages and ethnicities. However, many people wonder before sitting in the stylist's chair: Are box braids high maintenance? In this post, we'll look at what it means to maintain box braids, dispel some myths, and help you determine if this famous style is suited for you.
Understanding Box Braids
To kick off, let's define what we mean by box braids. They are individual plaits that are divided into the shape of a box or square all over the scalp. They can vary in size from small to jumbo, waist-length, or just graze the shoulders. They can be created with your natural hair or with extensions made from synthetic or human hair.
Installation Process
The process of getting box braids can be lengthy, often taking anywhere from four to eight hours, depending on the expertise of the braider, the thickness of the natural hair, and the desired braid size and length. This is not a quick in-and-out style, and it requires patience from the stylist and the client. Therefore, the installation process itself is the first sign that box braids might be a more high-maintenance style than one might initially think.
You May Also Like: Do box braids pull your hair out >>
Daily Maintenance
Daily upkeep is essential for keeping box braids looking good and avoiding harm to the box braids and your natural hair. Here's a more in-depth look at how to take care of your box braids daily.
Moisturizing the Scalp
A well-moisturized scalp is the foundation of healthy hair growth. The fact that your hair is braided does not mean you can avoid this step. Use a light spray or oil formulated explicitly for braids to keep your scalp hydrated without causing buildup. Tea tree oil and peppermint are natural remedies that assist to soothe and alleviate scalp itching.
Sealing Moisture in Your Braids
While your scalp needs moisture, so do the lengths of your braids, mainly if they include synthetic hair, which can draw moisture away from your natural hair. To hydrate your natural hair and extensions, apply a braid sprayer or leave-in conditioner. This can help keep your natural hair from getting fragile and separating when you finally remove the braids.
Keeping the Braids Clean
Sweat and product buildup can result in a dirty scalp and odorous braids. While braided hair does not require as much washing as unbraided hair, you should nevertheless gently cleanse your scalp and braids every two weeks. Use a diluted sulfate-free shampoo and massage the scalp, allowing the suds to run down the length of the box braids. Rinse well and follow with a mild conditioner.
To avoid frizz, wash your braids downward and avoid rigorous scrubbing. Post-wash, it's essential to dry your braids completely to prevent mildew and odor. A hooded dryer can be beneficial here, as air-drying can take a significant amount of time, given the density and thickness of the braids.
Protecting Braids at Night
Nighttime care is as critical as daytime maintenance regarding box braids. Protect your style by wrapping your hair in a satin scarf or bonnet. This reduces friction between your braids and the pillow, which can cause frizz and lead to breakage. If headwraps aren't uncomfortable, consider investing in a satin pillowcase.
Edge Care
The hair around your edges is the most delicate and prone to breakage. Apply a light balm or oil to these areas to keep them nourished. Also, be mindful not to pull too tightly on these hairs when styling your box braids into updos or ponytails.
Refreshing Your Braids
You may need to tame flyaways and frizz to keep your box braids looking neat. A little mousse or a light-holding spray can help keep stray hairs in place. For a sharper look, you can also apply edge control gel to smooth down your edges and refresh the overall appearance of your hairstyle.
Scalp Massage
Regular, gentle scalp massages might stimulate hair growth by boosting blood flow to the follicles. Use the tips of your fingers to massage your scalp in a circular motion, being careful not to apply too much pressure and disturb the base of your braids.
Incorporating these techniques into your daily regimen will help keep your hair healthy when it's in box braids and ensuring that the style looks as good as the day you left the salon. Remember, while box braids are a protective style, they still demand a certain level of attention to keep them looking their best. At uBraids, we specialize in crafting high-quality braided wigs that serve not only as fashion statements but also as protective styles for black women. Our collection includes an array of meticulously designed braided wigs, including the versatile and trendy boho braided wig. We understand the cultural importance and the practical benefits of braided hairstyles, which is why our wigs are made to offer the same level of protection and style as traditional box braids without the extensive time commitment for installation and daily maintenance.
You May Also Like: How to start box braids >>
Long-Term Upkeep
Box braids can endure for four to six weeks before beginning to look untidy. The lifetime of the style is dependent on how effectively it is maintained. Regularly tucking away flyaways can help to maintain a clean appearance. Still, once the natural hair begins to grow out significantly, it's necessary to remove the braids to avoid matting and severe hair damage.
Potential Challenges
One of the biggest challenges with box braids is managing the tension on the scalp. Too tight braids can cause pain and even lead to traction alopecia, a form of hair loss. Additionally, frizz and flyaways can be a nuisance, requiring frequent smoothing and tucking. Buildup at the base of the box braids is another issue, which, if not addressed, can lead to an unhealthy scalp environment.
Cost Consideration
The initial cost of getting box braids can be pretty pricey, especially if you choose a talented stylist and high-quality products. The maintenance products will also increase the overall cost. Touch-ups to keep the braids fresh might also cost extra, making this a more expensive style than others.
Lifestyle Considerations
Your daily routine will influence how high-maintenance your box braids will be. Those who participate in routine workouts or swimming will require extra care to keep their box braids clean and dry. However, for many, the convenience of not having to style their hair every day outweighs the upkeep.
You May Also Like: Can you wash box braids >>
Pros and Cons
The benefits of box braids are numerous. They are a protective style that can help with hair growth, they are versatile in styling, and they can be a time-saver in the morning. On the downside, they can be heavy, cause tension on the scalp, and require a consistent care routine.
Conclusion
While box braids have many benefits, they need significant maintenance. Effective maintenance is vital for the well-being of your hair and scalp., and even though they might save you time on a regular basis, installation and maintenance require dedication.Ultimately, whether box braids are high maintenance is determined by your personal care routine, lifestyle, and willingness to invest in the upkeep of this gorgeous and protective style.Our uBraids line at JALIZA Wig Store is designed with the modern individual in mind. The wigs are lightweight, durable, and feature a variety of styles from classic box braids to the more bohemian boho braids. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide a protective style option that is low maintenance, allowing wearers to enjoy the beauty of box braids with less hassle. Each wig is crafted to mimic the natural look and feel of real braided hair, ensuring that you can wear your uBraids with confidence and comfort.
By choosing a braided wig from uBraids, you're opting for a hassle-free way to sport box braids. You bypass the lengthy installation process and the daily regimen of scalp care and braid maintenance. Our user-friendly wigs offer a convenient alternative to traditional braids, making them an excellent option for anyone looking to protect their natural hair while still keeping up with the latest hairstyles. Whether you're looking to switch up your look or seeking a long-term protective style, uBraids presents a collection that promises to meet your needs without compromising on quality or fashion.
