Box braids are a timeless hairstyle that has been around for centuries. They have evolved over time to become one of the most popular and versatile protective styles for women with natural hair. Short box braids, in particular, have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their low maintenance and stylish appearance. In this article, we will discuss some tips and tricks for mastering the art of short box braids.
- Proper Preparation
The key to successful box braids starts with proper preparation. This includes washing and conditioning your hair thoroughly before braiding. It is important to detangle your hair and remove any knots or tangles to ensure a smooth and even braid. Also, make sure your hair is completely dry before starting the braiding process. Wet hair can cause the braids to slip and not hold properly.
- Detangle your hair
- Wash and condition your hair
- Allow hair to dry completely
- Choosing the Right Hair Extensions
When choosing hair extensions for short box braids, it’s important to select the appropriate length and texture. Opt for hair extensions that match the length of your natural hair or slightly longer if you prefer a longer style. The texture of the hair extensions should also match your natural hair texture to blend seamlessly. Kanekalon or Marley hair extensions are often used for box braids due to their durability and affordability.
- Select appropriate length
- Match texture to natural hair
- Choose durable and affordable hair extensions
- Sectioning Your Hair
Sectioning your hair is essential for achieving neat and uniform box braids. Divide your hair into small sections using a tail comb and secure each section with a small elastic band. The size of the sections depends on the desired braid thickness, but generally, smaller sections result in thinner braids while larger sections result in thicker braids. Make sure each section is evenly sized and spaced to ensure a consistent look.
- Divide hair into small sections
- Secure each section with elastic bands
- Ensure even sizing and spacing of sections
- Braiding Technique
The braiding technique used for short box braids is similar to traditional box braids. Take three strands of hair, cross the left strand over the middle strand, then cross the right strand over the new middle strand. Continue this pattern until you reach the end of the braid and secure with a small elastic band. The key to achieving neat and tight braids is to maintain equal tension on each strand throughout the process.
- Cross left strand over middle strand
- Cross right strand over new middle strand
- Maintain equal tension on each strand
- Adding Accessories
One of the many benefits of short box braids is the flexibility to add accessories to enhance the style. Hair cuffs, beads, and colorful string are popular options for adding a pop of color or texture to your braids. When adding accessories, make sure they do not weigh down your braids or cause them to break. Also, be careful when removing accessories to avoid damaging your braids or natural hair.
- Hair cuffs, beads, and colorful string are popular options
- Do not weigh down braids
- Be careful when removing accessories
- Maintenance & Care
Proper maintenance and care are essential for the longevity of your short box braids. Moisturizing your scalp and braids regularly with a lightweight oil or leave-in conditioner helps prevent dryness and breakage. Sleeping with a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase also helps protect your braids while you sleep. Avoiding excessive manipulation and pulling on your braids is important to prevent damage and prolong the life of your hairstyle.
- Moisturize scalp and braids regularly
- Sleep with satin or silk scarf or pillowcase
- Avoid excessive manipulation and pulling on braids
In conclusion, mastering the art of short box braids requires proper preparation, choosing the right hair extensions, sectioning your hair, using the proper braiding technique, adding accessories, and maintaining and caring for your braids properly. Following these tips and tricks will help you achieve a stylish and low-maintenance hairstyle that will last for weeks to come.
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