Braids and dreads are two different things, even if they look similar in the beginning. These two have different techniques and longevity. However, you might wonder if you have braids long enough that they can turn into dreads. After all, they do look similar.
Here you will learn how long box braids can last and other features that box braids have, so keep reading to learn more.
Can braids turn into dreads after a while?
To start off, can box braids turn into dreads if kept long enough? The answer to the question varies from place to place. Some people say it is possible, and some say it is not.
To understand this, you must know that dreads and braids are very different processes. Braids require sections of the hair and three to four strands to be weaved together to get the end result. On the other hand, dreadlocks are formed by intentionally allowing the hair to mat and lock together over time. They basically require a specific process of neglect, twisting, or palm rolling to encourage the hair strands to tangle and form locks.
With that said, braids can turn into dreads, but the process is not natural. Just having braids does not warrant that you will have dreads. You have to manipulate the braids and let them matt over time; also, you have to make sure not to take out the braids to get this result. But there are better ways to get dreads than this, so you should consult a hairstylist and look for a better way. Also, remember that getting dreads out of your hair is nearly impossible and is not considered a protective hairstyle. You will have to cut your hair off to get the dreads out.
How long can you keep your hair braided?
The time that you can keep your hair braided depends on how long the braids look presentable. When your hair is colored, the natural hair color will start showing at the roots eventually, which is time to get the braids done again and your hair.
The new hair growth will show at the top after a while, so there will be a section of unbraided hair at the top of your head. Moreover, the braids will start unraveling, and the braid will start slipping out, which means hair strands will be out of the braid.
With box braids, this process can take 3 weeks to 8 weeks to happen. It can take 3 weeks if you do not care for the braids at all. If you care for and maintain the braids, it can take up to 8 weeks for them to unravel. Maintaining braid means using a leave-in moisturizer, cleaning the scalp regularly, and using a bonnet before sleeping.
Also, getting the braids done by a professional increases the time it takes for the braids to unravel. The braids should be tight enough to last a while, especially at the top, and the sections should be smaller. However, the braid should always be tight enough as that can harm the scalp.
Do braids break your hair?
If braids are done properly, they are protective hairstyles that will keep your hair healthy. However, if the braids are not installed properly or removed too harshly, they can cause damage to hair, including breaking your hair.
Braids too tight
If the braids are done too aggressively and too tightly, it can cause the hair to break. This is because there is too much tension at the top of the braids. This is why the braids that are closer to your edges should be re-done every two weeks. At least the beginning of the braids and not the ends. This is the part where the hair is the weakest.
Lack of maintenance
Yes, having hair in braids removes the maintenance by some steps, but maintenance is still very important. The scalp should be moisturized daily because wearing box braids can lead to dryness and brittleness, making the hair more susceptible to breakage. In addition to that, you should not neglect washing your hair just because they are in braids. As it can lead to bacteria buildup, and the hair can get too matted, which will be too difficult to untangle.
Keeping braids for too long
The protective hairstyle does last for a month or more, but keeping them locked up for too long can cause the hair to break. This is because of bacteria build up as well as dirt which can cause the hair to be too matted, and once the braids are removed, it will also take off a lot of hair with it. This is why, in between braids, the hair should be allowed to breathe and be natural for a few weeks before being re-braided.
Do braids prevent lice?
Lice are very common in little children since they play together with other children and touch their heads with other heads. Also, the children could be better about their personal hygiene as well. So, do braids help prevent lice?
Yes, it does prevent lice from transferring into your head. In fact, any type of bun and hairstyle that has your hair pulled back prevents the lice from coming into your head. This is because the hair is less accessible to lice.
However, this does not 100% guarantee that the hair will stay lice-free. Moreover, using hair products such as oils, gels, or sprays, commonly applied during the braiding process, can potentially discourage lice infestation. The most important thing is not to share hair products or have head-to-head contact with a person with lice.
Can you do braids with layered hair?
If you have a layered haircut, having them in box braids might seem impossible. But this is actually possible with some effort.
When you have a layered haircut, the stylist will have to put in different lengths of extensions to make them all the same size. The stylist can use the same extension length for each hair strand if you also want the layered effect after the box braids. However, even the shortest layer should be long enough to be secured within the extensions. Also, there might be a need for additional hair extensions to make the hairstyle work properly. It is best to consult with the hair braider to see if it is possible for your hair or not.
What’s the difference between braids and plaits?
There is no difference between braids and plaits. These mean the same thing but are used in different places. Braid is a term used in the United States, whereas plaits are used in the United Kingdom. However, people sometimes use the term plaits to refer to a simple three-strand braid and braids to refer to a more complicated braiding hairstyle.
Conclusion
Now you know if box braids can turn into dreads or not. Also, you know how long you can keep the box braids, among other things, like if there is a difference between braids and plaits. This article was beneficial in answering your questions regarding this protective hairstyle.
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