Invisible box braids are a trendy and protective hairstyle that offers a sleek, natural look. Unlike regular box braids, the roots of invisible box braids appear almost undetectable, blending effortlessly with your natural hair. This style is perfect for anyone looking to add length and volume while maintaining a subtle, elegant appearance.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to do invisible box braids with a detailed, step-by-step approach. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced in braiding, following these steps will help you achieve flawless results.
What Are Invisible Box Braids?
Invisible box braids, also known as “knotless box braids,” differ from traditional braids in the way they are started. Instead of using a knot at the root to attach the braid, invisible braids begin with your natural hair, gradually incorporating the braiding hair. This technique makes the braids look seamless and reduces tension on the scalp, leading to less breakage and discomfort.
Benefits of Invisible Box Braids
Invisible box braids come with several advantages:
Natural Look: The braids blend well with your hair, giving the illusion of natural growth.
Less Scalp Tension: Since no knots are involved, the braids place less strain on your scalp, making them more comfortable to wear.
Lightweight: Invisible braids feel lighter on the head compared to traditional box braids, making them ideal for long-term wear.
Versatility: You can style invisible box braids in numerous ways, including updos, ponytails, and buns.
What You’ll Need for Invisible Box Braids
Before starting, gather the necessary tools and products:
- Rat-tail comb: For parting and sectioning the hair.
- Hair clips: To hold sections in place.
- Edge control: To smooth down your edges and give a polished look.
- Braiding hair extensions: Choose synthetic or natural hair, depending on your preference.
- Leave-in conditioner: To moisturize your hair.
- Hair oil or serum: To seal in moisture.
- Small elastic bands (optional): To secure the ends of the braids.
How to Prepare Your Hair for Invisible Box Braids
1. Clean and Detangle Your Hair
Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Make sure your hair is clean, as box braids can last several weeks, and you’ll want to prevent product buildup.
Use a sulfate-free shampoo and a deep conditioner.
Detangle your hair thoroughly with a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush. Ensure your hair is smooth to make the braiding process easier.
2. Moisturize and Seal
After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner to hydrate your hair. Follow up with a light oil or hair serum to seal in the moisture. This step is essential, as your hair will be tucked away in the braids for a while.
3. Blow-Dry or Stretch Your Hair
For the best results, stretch your hair before braiding. You can do this by blow-drying your hair or using a heatless stretching method, such as braiding or banding your hair overnight. Stretching helps reduce frizz and makes it easier to part and braid.
Step-by-Step Guide to Invisible Box Braids
Step 1: Part Your Hair
Using the rat-tail comb, start by parting your hair into sections. Depending on the size of braids you want, create larger or smaller parts.
You can choose between square, triangle, or diamond-shaped parts, depending on your preference.
Clip away sections of your hair to keep them organized.
Step 2: Start the Braid With Your Natural Hair
Take one section of hair and divide it into three equal parts.
Begin braiding with just your natural hair. Braid two to three stitches down the section before adding the braiding hair. This is what makes the braid “invisible,” as it gives the appearance that it’s growing from your scalp without a bulky knot.
Step 3: Add Braiding Hair
Once you’ve braided a few stitches, it’s time to add the braiding hair. Take a small piece of the extension hair and feed it into the braid.
Gradually add more braiding hair as you continue braiding, ensuring it blends seamlessly with your natural hair.
Be sure to add small amounts of braiding hair at a time to avoid a sudden bulky appearance.
Step 4: Braid to the Desired Length
Continue braiding down the length of the hair. Depending on the length of the braids you want, you can stop at shoulder length, mid-back, or go all the way down to your waist.
Secure the ends by either burning the tips (if using synthetic hair) or using small elastic bands.
Step 5: Repeat on All Sections
Move on to the next section of hair and repeat the same steps. Be sure to keep your parts neat and consistent throughout the process.
Take your time and work methodically to ensure uniformity in the size and length of the braids.
See Also: How Do You French Braid Hair Step By Step
Tips for Achieving Perfect Invisible Box Braids
1. Choose the Right Braiding Hair
The type of braiding hair you use can affect the final look. Opt for lightweight braiding hair that mimics the texture of your natural hair for a more natural finish. Synthetic braiding hair such as kanekalon is a popular choice because it’s durable and easy to work with.
2. Keep Your Parts Neat
Clean and precise parting is crucial for professional-looking invisible box braids. Use a rat-tail comb to create sharp lines, and use hair clips to keep the sections tidy as you work.
3. Apply Edge Control for a Sleek Finish
To keep the edges and roots of your hair looking neat, apply a small amount of edge control gel to smooth down any flyaways or baby hairs. This will give your braids a polished look.
Maintenance of Invisible Box Braids
1. Moisturize Your Scalp
To keep your scalp healthy and prevent itching, apply a light oil or scalp spray regularly. Focus on hydrating your scalp without making your braids greasy.
2. Wrap Your Hair at Night
Protect your braids while sleeping by wrapping your hair with a satin or silk scarf. This will reduce frizz and help maintain the longevity of the style.
3. Keep the Braids Clean
Wash your braids every couple of weeks to keep them fresh. You can do this by diluting shampoo in water and applying it directly to your scalp. Gently massage the scalp, and rinse thoroughly. Be sure to let the braids air dry completely to prevent any odor or mildew.
How Long Do Invisible Box Braids Last?
Invisible box braids can last between four to six weeks, depending on how well they are maintained. Avoid leaving them in for too long, as this could lead to tangling or breakage. After removing the braids, give your hair time to rest before installing a new set.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too much tension: Avoid braiding too tightly, as this can cause hair loss or damage to your edges.
Uneven braiding hair: When adding the braiding hair, ensure it’s evenly distributed to avoid a lumpy or uneven look.
Not moisturizing enough: Failing to moisturize your scalp while wearing braids can lead to dryness and flaking.
Conclusion
Invisible box braids are an excellent protective style that provides both beauty and versatility. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve a natural, flawless look without putting too much strain on your hair or scalp. With proper care and maintenance, your braids will last for several weeks, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your new style.