Box braids are a popular hairstyle that has been around for centuries. They are easy to maintain and can be worn by anyone with any hair type, including short hair. If you’ve been wanting to try box braids on your short hair but don’t know where to start, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve the perfect look.
- Preparing Your Hair
Before starting the braiding process, it is important to prepare your hair properly. Here are the steps to take:
- Shampoo and condition your hair: Start by washing your hair with a gentle shampoo to remove any product buildup or dirt. Follow up with a conditioner to hydrate your hair and make it easier to detangle.
- Detangle your hair: Using a wide-tooth comb, detangle your hair from the ends to the roots. This will help prevent breakage and make it easier to braid.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner: Apply a leave-in conditioner or oil to your hair to keep it moisturized and protected during the braiding process.
- Sectioning Your Hair
The next step in achieving box braids on short hair is sectioning your hair into even parts. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a rat-tail comb to create horizontal partings: Starting at the nape of your neck, use a rat-tail comb to create horizontal partings. The size of the sections will depend on how thick you want your braids to be.
- Clip the remaining hair: After creating a section, clip the remaining hair out of the way using a hair clip.
- Braiding Your Hair
After sectioning your hair, it’s time to start the braiding process. Here’s how to do it:
- Create a base braid: Take a small section of hair from the first section you created and divide it into three equal parts. Braid the hair until you reach the end of your natural hair and secure the braid with a small rubber band.
- Add extensions: Take a piece of synthetic braiding hair and fold it in half. Attach the folded end of the hair to your natural hair braid using a rubber band. Create three equal sections with the braiding hair and start braiding it into your natural hair braid. Continue until you reach the end of the extension, and secure the braid with another rubber band.
- Repeat the process: Move on to the next section and repeat the braiding process until all sections are complete.
- Maintaining Your Braids
Once your box braids are complete, you’ll want to maintain them properly to ensure they last for as long as possible. Here’s how to do it:
- Keep your scalp clean: Use a dry shampoo or witch hazel to clean your scalp between washes. This will help keep your scalp healthy and prevent any build-up.
- Moisturize your hair: Apply a leave-in conditioner or oil to your hair regularly to keep it moisturized and prevent breakage.
- Sleep with a satin scarf or pillowcase: Sleeping with a satin scarf or pillow will help prevent frizz and keep your hair smooth.
In conclusion, achieving box braids on short hair is not only possible but relatively easy if you follow these simple steps. Start by preparing your hair properly, sectioning it evenly, braiding it with extensions, and then maintaining it properly. With patience and practice, you can achieve beautiful, long-lasting box braids that will have everyone talking. Remember, always take care of your hair and scalp to avoid any damage or discomfort.
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