Braids hold much cultural and historical significance in Black communities. These intricate hairdos were historically worn to signify marital status, age, religion, wealth, and rank in society. Passed down for generations, they are now worn as protective hairstyles. But box braids or dreads?
Box braids are also a symbol of their identity and their rich heritage and historical significance. Keep reading to learn all you need to know about box braids and try it for yourself to spice up your look.
Are dreadlocks and box braids the same?
Box braids are the most common form of protective hairstyle. Protective hairstyles protect natural hair from heat and humidity. Box braids get their name from the box patterns that result from strategically sectioning and weaving the hair. They can be styled in a number of ways with synthetic fabrics and colors. While the braiding process can be a bit lengthy, the finished product is definitely worth the effort.
Dreadlocks, also known as dreads, may seem similar to braids, but some key differences actually set them apart. Dreads are rope-like structures formed by braiding, locking or twisting, and even backcombing the hair. Unlike box braids, dreads take time to form on their own. Many people take up this hairstyle to express their individuality.
Can box braids turn to dreads?
No, on their own, braids cannot turn into dreadlocks. Dreadlocks need to be able to wrap over themselves to form what is called a deadlock. A braid secures the hair in a braid and prevents this from occurring. Moreover, the roots will lock, and your incoming length will be dreadlocked if kept in a braid for a long time. The braids themselves will not turn into dreadlocks unless you backcomb them.
Can box braids fall out?
If braided correctly, there is no reason for box braids to fall out. Although the initial braiding process is tiresome and time-consuming, box braids will last up to two months. However, if the nape and hairline are redone after six weeks, they can last up to a maximum of ten weeks. With optimum tension and the use of the right kind of hair products, your box braid should be secure.
What does it mean when your box braid gets loose?
There could be several reasons behind your box braids becoming loose. It is possible that your hair is growing if your braids are loose at the roots. If you’ve been pulling on your braids a lot, especially putting them up in a high ponytail and other similar things, your braids may have moved. There is a good chance for your braids to come undone if not washed carefully.
How many box braids do I need?
The amount of hair required for different braid styles is different. Depending on the style of braid and the look you are going for, you can determine the number of box braids needed. So, for adding length and thickness to their braids, many people opt for hair extensions or synthetic fiber.
How many box braids do I need for a full head?
For micro box braids, you might need four-packs at best, or better yet, none. For larger braids, you will need around ten packs. Generally, 6-8 packs should suffice for small to medium. If you are leaning towards thinner box braids, then there is no need for these.
How many boxes do you need for box braids?
Factors like the size of your head, thickness and length of your hair, and the kind of braid (micro, small, medium, large or jumbo) determine how many boxes and how many braids will be needed. So, consult with your hairstylist about your preferences and find the correct amount of braids needed. If you are unsure, just get more; you can always return it or use it on some other hairstyle.
Why are box braids stiff?
The first one or two days after braiding, the hair is slightly stiff, which adjusts with time. Stiff braids can be caused by various factors like your hair type or improper care after braiding. If the hair is braided too tightly, your head is bound to hurt. It can also damage the scalp, ruin hairline, and cause traction alopecia (hair loss caused by frequently pulling hair and keeping them in taut updos like ponytails, tight braids, or buns).
How do you soften hard braids?
Hot water is the best way to remedy stiff braids. Generally, stylists dip the braids in hot water after finishing braiding to seal off the ends. Warm showers help to open cuticles which makes your hair looser and increases elasticity. Alternatively, spritzing the hair with water and covering it with a warm towel works too. Leave-in conditioners work to moisten the hair and relieve tension in the hair. Oil massages are also a great way to nourish the hair leaving it happy and healthy.
Who are box braids for?
Box braids are predominantly worn by Black communities. Box braids are closely intertwined with Black culture, and some find it offensive when caucasian people get praised for adapting the same hairstyle for which Black people get ridiculed. There are many controversies surrounding caucasian people wearing Black hairstyles and cultural appropriation. Aside from that, box braids can be done on hair of any texture which is long enough to braid.
Will box braids damage caucasian hair?
Braids will not harm Caucasian hair if the hair parting is large enough to accommodate the number of hair extensions used. Adding 8-10 bundles of extension hair to your natural hair is obviously going to take some adapting. Unless the braider uses too much hair in one parting or pulls too tightly, there won’t be any problems.
Thus, braids are an excellent method to relax both you and your hair. This protective hairstyle preserves your hair from environmental factors, and you look good while you are at it! It can actually help enough to retain hair growth and grow your hair long if managed correctly. Talk to your stylist and figure out what style of box braids you prefer to find the right look for you.
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