Long box braids are a popular and stylish hair choice that can offer both a trendy look and a practical way to manage your hair. Whether you’re looking to protect your natural hair, switch up your style, or simply enjoy the versatility of box braids, learning how to create them properly is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of doing long box braids, covering everything from preparation to the final touches.
Preparation
Hair Washing and Conditioning
Before starting the box braiding process, it’s crucial to have clean and well-conditioned hair. Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo that suits your hair type. For example, if you have dry hair, look for a moisturizing shampoo. After shampooing, apply a deep conditioner and let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps to hydrate and soften your hair, making it easier to work with during the braiding process. Rinse the conditioner thoroughly.
Detangling
Once your hair is clean and conditioned, gently detangle it using a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots, being careful not to pull or tug too hard, as this can cause breakage. If you encounter any knots, use your fingers to carefully loosen them before using the comb or brush. Detangling ensures that your hair is smooth and ready for the braids.
Drying
Allow your hair to air dry completely or use a blow dryer on a low heat setting. If using a blow dryer, keep it at a safe distance from your hair to avoid heat damage. Completely dry hair is easier to braid and will hold the braids better.
Gather Your Tools
To create long box braids, you’ll need the following tools:
Rat-tail comb: This is used for creating precise parts and sectioning the hair.
Hair clips: To hold the sections of hair that you’re not currently braiding.
Braiding hair: You can choose synthetic or human hair extensions depending on your preference. Synthetic hair is usually more affordable and comes in a wide variety of colors and textures. Human hair offers a more natural look and feel but is generally more expensive. Make sure to match the color and texture of the extensions to your natural hair as closely as possible.
Hair gel or edge control (optional): If you want to smooth down your edges or keep flyaways in check, these products can be helpful.
Scissors: For cutting the braiding hair to the appropriate length.
Sectioning the Hair
Decide on the Parting Style
There are several ways to part your hair for box braids. The most common are the middle part, side part, or zigzag part. The parting style you choose will depend on the look you want to achieve. For a classic and symmetrical look, the middle part is a great option. A side part can add a bit of asymmetry and a more casual feel. The zigzag part gives a unique and edgy appearance.
Use the Rat-tail Comb to Create the Part
Once you’ve decided on the parting style, use the rat-tail comb to create a clean and straight part. Start from the front of your head and work your way back, making sure the part is even on both sides. If you’re doing a zigzag part, use the comb to create a series of diagonal lines that alternate in direction.
Section the Hair
After creating the part, divide your hair into small sections. The size of the sections will determine the thickness of your box braids. For long box braids, you can generally make the sections a bit larger than if you were doing shorter braids. Use the rat-tail comb and hair clips to separate the sections. Clip the sections that you’re not working on to keep them out of the way.
Attaching the Braiding Hair
Measuring and Cutting the Braiding Hair
Take a strand of the braiding hair and hold it up against your natural hair to determine the appropriate length. You’ll want the braids to be long, so usually, you’ll need to cut the braiding hair to be significantly longer than your natural hair length. Cut the braiding hair with scissors, making sure to cut it evenly on both ends.
Attaching the Braiding Hair to Your Natural Hair
There are several methods to attach the braiding hair to your natural hair. One common method is the knotting technique. Take a small section of your natural hair and the braiding hair and tie them together in a simple knot near the roots. Make sure the knot is tight enough to hold the braiding hair in place but not so tight that it causes discomfort or pulls on your natural hair. Another method is using a crochet hook to loop the braiding hair through a small section of your natural hair and then tie it off.
Braiding Technique
Starting the Box Braid
Once the braiding hair is attached to your natural hair, you’re ready to start braiding. Hold the combined strand of natural and braiding hair in one hand. Divide it into three equal sections. Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section. This is the basic three-strand braid start.
Incorporating the Box Shape
To create the box shape, as you continue braiding, add small amounts of the braiding hair to each of the three sections with each pass. For example, take a small piece of the braiding hair and add it to the right section, then cross it over the middle. Do the same for the left section. This will gradually build up the thickness and boxy appearance of the braids.
Keeping the Tension Consistent
Maintain a consistent tension throughout the braiding process. If the tension is too loose, the braids will look sloppy and may come undone easily. If the tension is too tight, it can cause discomfort and even damage to your natural hair. Find a balance where the braids are neat and secure but not overly constricting.
Braid Length
Continue braiding until you reach the desired length of the box braids. Remember, since you’re doing long box braids, you’ll want to braid for a significant distance. As you braid, you can periodically check the length by holding the braid up against your body or another reference point.
Finishing Touches
Securing the End of the Braid
When you’ve reached the desired length of the braid, you need to secure the end. You can do this by tying a small knot at the end of the braid or using a small elastic band to hold it together. Make sure the knot or elastic band is tight enough to keep the braid from unraveling.
Trimming the Ends
After securing the end of the braid, you may notice that the ends of the braiding hair are uneven or too long. Use scissors to carefully trim the ends to make them look neat and even. Trim a little bit at a time, checking the length frequently to avoid cutting too much.
Styling the Edges
If you want to style your edges, apply a small amount of hair gel or edge control to your fingertips and smooth down the hair along the hairline. You can create a sleek look or a more defined curl depending on your preference. Use a small comb or your fingers to shape the edges as desired.
Final Check and Adjustments
Once all the braids are done, do a final check of the entire hairstyle. Look for any braids that may be loose or uneven and make the necessary adjustments. Make sure all the ends are properly secured and the overall look is neat and tidy.
Conclusion
Doing long box braids requires patience, practice, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this professional guide, from proper preparation to the final finishing touches, you can create beautiful and long-lasting box braids that will enhance your style and protect your natural hair. Remember to take your time during the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different parting styles, braiding techniques, and accessories to make your box braids truly unique. With a little effort, you’ll be able to rock those long box braids with confidence.
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