You might have heard about box braids, an extremely popular braiding hairstyle, but may not have a clue how to do this in your hair. This trendy look may seem tricky, but if you follow our step by step tutorial your hair will look amazing in no time!
- Like normal, wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner. The more important aspect is conditioner - since box braids are more permanent you'll want to make sure your hair has a lot of moisture. ;) The good news is that once your braids are in you can wash them, but for now make sure you give your hair a good washing.
- Next take your dry locks and section it into four different parts. Now comes the tricky part. For each section, make sure that your hair is in four even and straight squares. If your hair is in quarters it will be much easier to master this style. After sectioning off your hair, find clips and use them to hold each section.
- Part your hair with a small part in the first section of hair. With a small amount of hair (like a pinch of hair), you'll be able to succeed at the next step. Make sure all of your parts are about the same size.
- Now it's time to either braid or plait your hair from the first pinch. After you have your pinch of hair, take the three sections of hair (of the pinch), and cross the left section under the middle section. After this part, put the right section under the middle section, which will result in a braid.
- Continue to braid the entire section from the top to the bottom (or root to tip). Secure your hair with a small rubber band so that it will keep your braid from coming out. Also, if it is at all possible not to use a band this will be better because sometimes bands will cause damage in your hair if you're not careful.
- Now it's time to make another part from the first section of your hair. Braid this section too. Be careful and make sure that all of your parts are even and straight. They should look like individual and tiny boxes.
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Once that section is complete, move on to the next section. You should have your full head of hair in individual tiny box braids by the time you are done.
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Once you are done with every section of hair where your box braids will be, you should have about 100 or more box braids! Each small part will result in box braids and if you want the braids smaller, make your part even smaller as you continue to braid. Keep in mind that this process can take hours to complete, so if you have a friend or a professional who knows how to braid quickly, they may be able to help you complete this look in record speed. ;)
Tips to Remember:
Don't braid your hair too tightly. You don't want to lose some of your hair or damage it in any way. So style it tightly but not too tightly.
Another tip is that you can cover your hair with a silk scarf if you want to keep your hairstyle extra tidy as you braid or even after this look is complete!
Enjoy a style that looks nice without rubber bands on the ends, but the bands can be purchased from a beauty store if you prefer to have them in your hair.
Have fun braiding your box braids and send us a picture if you decide to try out this style!
Learning how to do box braids is an excellent skill to have, especially for those with natural hair or for those who want to switch up their look. Box braids are a versatile hairstyle that can be achieved with both synthetic and braiding hair.
For beginners, starting with easy box braids on your own hair is a great way to get comfortable with the technique. Using a wide-tooth comb and taking your time is the best way to do box braids, ensuring that your hair stays healthy and undamaged.
Additionally, box plaits braids can be customized to fit your style, such as box braids with curls coming out. Whether you choose to do your own box braids or opt for professional help, mastering this technique is an excellent way to achieve a stylish and low-maintenance look that you can rock for weeks at a time.
Loving hairstyles like this? We have other tutorial videos that you can follow:
4 Easy Steps To Master Flat Twists
The Illuminated Braided Bun
Senegalese Twists
Box Braids for Beginners: What You Need to Know Before You Start
Box braids look complex, but the fundamentals are simpler than they appear. The steps above give you the core technique - here's the additional context that makes the difference between beginner results and salon-quality box braids.
"Box braids are such a beautiful protective style, and there's real satisfaction in learning to do them yourself. The first attempt is almost always humbling, but most people find that by the third or fourth braid, their hands start to find the rhythm. Practice is genuinely the only way to get there."
- Priyanka Swamy, Founder of Perfect Locks
Choosing the Right Braiding Hair
The braiding hair you choose significantly affects how easy the braids are to do, how they look, and how long they last. Here's what to consider:
Best braiding hair choices
- Kanekalon braiding hair - the most popular, lightweight and easy to work with
- Expression braiding hair - slightly coarser, holds tightly at the root
- Human hair bulk - more expensive but looks most natural, can be heat-styled
- Pre-stretched braiding hair - saves time by eliminating the stretching step
Things to watch out for
- Braiding hair that's too heavy - puts excess tension on the scalp
- Non-pre-stretched hair if you're a beginner (stretching adds difficulty)
- Synthetic hair with high shine that looks unnatural
- Hair that sheds excessively or doesn't hold at the root
Box Braid Sizes: Small, Medium, or Large?
Braid size is one of the most important decisions to make before you start:
Small box braids (micro braids) take the longest to install (8-12+ hours for a full head) but last the longest and look the most elaborate. They're beautiful but are a significant time commitment.
Medium box braids are the most popular size - they take 4-6 hours for a full head, last well, and look full and beautiful without the extreme time investment of micro braids.
Large (jumbo) box braids install in 2-3 hours and create a bold, dramatic look. They tend to be heavier on the scalp and may not last as long, but are great for a statement style.
How to Make Your Box Braids Last Longer
Dip the ends in hot water
After completing your braids, dip the ends in hot (not boiling) water for 10-15 seconds. This seals the braiding hair ends and prevents unraveling. The heat slightly melts and bonds the synthetic fibers together at the tip. Let cool completely before moving on.
Moisturize your scalp from day one
Starting scalp moisturizing immediately after installation (and maintaining it every 2-3 days) prevents the dryness and itching that leads to scratching and frizzing. Use a lightweight oil applied with a dropper directly to the parts.
Wrap at night, every night
A satin bonnet or silk scarf prevents friction against the pillow that causes frizzing. Consistent nighttime protection is the single most impactful habit for extending the life of box braids.
Don't leave them in too long
Box braids should be taken down by week 8 at the latest. After that, the new growth puts excessive tension on the roots and the risk of tangling and matting when you take them down increases significantly.
Common Box Braid Mistakes to Avoid
Box Braid Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to do box braids?
Timing depends significantly on braid size and your experience level. Micro braids can take 8-12+ hours for a full head. Medium box braids take 4-6 hours. Jumbo braids take 2-4 hours. For beginners doing their own hair, add 30-50% more time than these estimates - your hands are still building muscle memory and efficiency.
How many packs of braiding hair do I need for box braids?
For medium-sized box braids, most people need 5-7 packs of standard kanekalon braiding hair. For jumbo braids, 4-5 packs may be enough. For micro braids, 8-10 packs or more may be needed. It's always better to buy an extra pack and not use it than to run short mid-install.
Should you wash your hair before box braids?
Yes - always start with clean, moisturized hair. Wash and deep condition 1-2 days before your install. Avoid heavy butters or oils immediately before braiding, as these can make the hair too slippery to grip properly. Your hair should be clean but not stripped.
Do box braids damage hair?
When done correctly - with the right tension, appropriate weight of braiding hair, and within the recommended wear time - box braids should not damage your hair. The risks come from braids that are too tight (especially at the edges), too heavy, or left in too long. Many women find their hair thrives during periods of wearing box braids because of the reduced manipulation.
Can you do box braids with short hair?
You need at least 2 inches of natural hair for box braids with extensions to anchor to. For very short hair, knotless box braids or feed-in braids are easier to work with as they start with just a small amount of natural hair and gradually incorporate the extension hair rather than requiring a knot at the root.
How do you take out box braids without damaging your hair?
Apply a detangling oil to each braid before starting. Cut the extension hair carefully below the point where your natural hair ends. Unravel from the bottom up, never pulling against resistance. Work in sections rather than trying to take all the braids out at once. After removal, finger detangle before washing, then follow with a deep conditioning treatment.
Box braids are one of the most rewarding hairstyles to master - whether you're doing them yourself or getting them done professionally. If you have questions about which braiding hair works best or want to explore extension options that complement protective styles, we're always happy to help.
Author and Founder of Perfect Locks LLC
Priyanka Swamy, the visionary founder of Perfect Locks LLC, is a passionate advocate for empowering women and promoting cultural diversity. With an unwavering commitment to ethical sourcing and quality craftsmanship, she redefined the hair extension market and created a supportive community that celebrates individuality.
Priyanka's dedication to sustainability and social responsibility continues to inspire positive change within the industry. Her journey with Perfect Locks remains an inspiration, unlocking the true potential and confidence of countless individuals worldwide.
