Q&A for How to Do Box Braids

Yes, you can get in the pool with box braids. You should tie them up prior to getting in the water (only if your entire head will come in to contact with the water) because once they get wet, they'll become heavy.

Yes, you can get in the pool with box braids. You should tie them up prior to getting in the water (only if your entire head will come in to contact with the water) because once they get wet, they'll become heavy.

Medium box braids can take several hours to do, usually about 5-8 hours, depending on your speed and how long the braids will be. Waist length box braids would take much longer to do than mid-back length box brids.

Box braids can last about 6-8 weeks. Even if your braids still look presentable after 8 weeks, you should take them out to prevent breakage.

Box braids are generally braided tight. There's no way to loosen them; you would need to take them out if they're too tight for you.

Yes, you can get in the pool with box braids. You should tie them up prior to getting in the water (only if your entire head will come in to contact with the water) because once they get wet, they'll become heavy.

Box braids are generally braided tight. There's no way to loosen them; you would need to take them out if they're too tight for you.

Yes, you can get in the pool with box braids. You should tie them up prior to getting in the water (only if your entire head will come in to contact with the water) because once they get wet, they'll become heavy.

If done properly, it prevents your hair from breaking, so in that sense it is. However, if you keep the braids in too long they can cause breakage, knots, and matted hair.

You should wash no more than 2-3 times a week (wash too much and your braids will get frizzy).

Yes, but not too tight. Braids that are too tight can be very uncomfortable after a while. They can also cause headaches and hair breakage.

Just make sure your hair is clean. Before starting a braid you should put some natural oil on it to keep it from being too dry or dehydrated.

This chic, comfortable style, is great for both summer and winter.

Yes and no. Box braids cannot make your hair grow longer faster. They can, however, help your hair grow healthier and keep it from breaking.

You can, but it will be tight. I wait 1-2 days to even put my hair up because they're new and I want them to set and get used to them.

You may straighten your hair if it is very curly. If it is not, there is no need to straighten it first.

Yes.

You can, but it is not recommended. There are old oils and dirt in the extension, unless you wash it. Even so, the old braid will be frizzy, and won't look as neat anymore.

It really depends on where you live. Search on the internet to see if there are any places nearby and how much they charge. Practice on yourself and others -- it's fun, and the only way to get experience is to jump right in and do it. Ask a friend to help you out! You will get better and faster over time.

There is no time you should wait but make sure you have washed your hair after you have taken your braids out.

Yes, but I don't recommend it. Wax usually leaves heavy residue. You do not want too much of a build-up on your braids.

Yes, you can. Make a mini ponytail first, then make the braid, then tie another hair tie at the end of the braid.

No, you can just use your natural hair. It works better with longer hair, though.

Yes, castor oil is a very good choice.

If you used synthetic hair, you can trim the frizz with a pair of scissors or you can run a flame quickly over them. Alternatively, do the braids neater and prevent frizz by using a satin head wrap when sleeping or a satin pillowcase if you used you own, natural hair.

Yes you can. Just take your time while loosening out the braid and comb it out before you re-braid. This will eliminate the frizz and allow for a neater finish since you won't have the pre-braided form to worry about.

If you've done your braids well, no. Combing out some dead hair is normal, though.

Of course. Why not? If you like the style, go for it.

3-4 hours depending on the length and the speed and experience of the braider.

Your hair only has to be long enough to pinch. Then, it can be box braided with extensions.