Box braids are a timeless and versatile protective hairstyle that has been embraced by many for its low maintenance and stylish appeal. One of the most common questions before getting this hairstyle is: How long does it take to braid box braids? The answer depends on several factors, including hair length, thickness, braid size, stylist experience, and the method used. Below, we break down the key elements that influence the time required to install box braids.
Factors Affecting the Time It Takes to Braid Box Braids
Hair Length & Thickness
The length and density of your natural hair play a significant role in determining how long the braiding process will take. Shorter or finer hair may be quicker to braid, while longer, thicker hair requires more time to section and secure properly. If extensions are added, the stylist must also account for the time needed to blend and attach them seamlessly.
Braid Size & Quantity
Box braids come in various sizes—small, medium, large, or jumbo. Smaller braids take significantly longer because they require more precision and a higher number of individual plaits. For example, micro box braids may take 6–10 hours or more, while larger braids can be completed in 3–6 hours. The total number of braids directly impacts the overall time investment.
Stylist’s Experience & Speed
A professional braider with years of experience will work much faster than someone who is still refining their technique. Experienced stylists can efficiently part, prep, and braid hair with minimal mistakes, reducing installation time. If you’re doing it yourself or relying on a less experienced braider, expect the process to take longer.
Preparation & Styling Method
Before braiding, the hair must be washed, detangled, and sometimes stretched (via blow-drying or banding) to make the process smoother. Skipping these steps can lead to complications, increasing braiding time. Additionally, some stylists use different techniques, such as the “underhand” or “overhand” method, which can slightly alter the speed of braiding.
Additional Styling & Finishing Touches
Once the braids are installed, some people opt for styling, such as curling the ends, adding beads, or creating updos. These extras add to the total time. If you’re on a tight schedule, discuss styling preferences with your braider beforehand to manage expectations.
Estimated Time Frames for Box Braids
- Small/Medium Box Braids (100–200 braids): 4–8 hours
- Large/Jumbo Box Braids (50–80 braids): 2–5 hours
- Knotless Box Braids (a seamless alternative): 5–9 hours
- DIY Box Braids (self-installation): 8–12 hours or more (split across multiple sessions)
Tips to Reduce Braiding Time
- Come with pre-stretched hair (blow-dried or stretched twists) to skip lengthy prep.
- Choose a moderate braid size—medium braids offer a balance between style and installation speed.
- Book with an experienced braider to ensure efficiency.
- Avoid excessive styling if you’re short on time.
Conclusion
While box braids require a significant time commitment, the results are worth it for many. By understanding the factors that influence braiding duration, you can better plan your salon visit or DIY session. Whether you opt for a quick jumbo braid style or intricate micro braids, proper preparation and a skilled stylist will help streamline the process. Ultimately, the time invested leads to a stunning, long-lasting hairstyle that requires minimal daily upkeep.
Related topics:
How Long Does It Take To Take Out Box Braids
How Long Should Knotless Braids Stay In?
How to Do a Braid on Short Hair
