Box Braids

Box braids are individual plaits that are usually divided by small squared off parts or boxes. Box braids may be of any width or length, but most women add synthetic or natural hair to the braid for length as well as thickness and fullness. The great thing about these braids is that because they are not attached to the scalp, the braids may be manipulated into several different styles, resembling styles worn in long, relaxed hair.

Box-style braids are a great look.

Extensions for braids, human or synthetic, are purchased in beauty supply stores where products for women of color are sold. The hair is available in a wide variety of colors and textures. Depending on the style and the packaging, expect to buy three or more packages of synthetic hair. Multiple packages of human hair may also be needed, but make sure that unused packages may be returned.

When using synthetic hair for the braids it's best to plait the hair all the way down to the end. The ends of the hair are usually secured by either burning the hair with a lighter or knotting the ends. In both techniques, the ends of the natural hair are not close to the end of the extension. Some women curl the hair about half-way up on perm rods and dip the ends into hot water. Spiral curls form in the hair when it is dry.

On lazy days, it's easy to pull box braids back into a ponytail. There are, however, several African American hair braiding styles that are also easy and more distinctive. A simple ponytail can become dramatic when some of the braids are used as a ponytail holder.

1. Take about four or five braids and wrap the braids around the base of the ponytail twice.
2. Loop the braids into the base of the wrap to create a knot. The ends of the braids can hang loose or they can be manipulated into a bun.
3. Plait the braids into two or three larger plaits and wrap the ends of the plaits into the knot that is securing the ponytail.
4. Use bobby pins to hold the look into place.

1. Take three braids and dip them into hot water
2. Wrap the braids around curl rods. Use smaller rods for tighter curls.
3. Get under a hooded dryer or let the hair dry naturally for at least an hour.
4. Remove the rods when the hair is completely dry.
5. Let the ends hang or style the curls
6. Arrange the curls into a high ponytail at the top of the head for a funky, party, look.

1. If desired, cut the front of the hair into a bang and cut the ends of the hair into long layers.
2. If using synthetic hair, dip the hair into hot water and curl the ends with large curlers.
3. Let the hair dry naturally or sit under a hooded dryer until the hair is completely dry.
4. Remove the curlers and separate the curls into the flip.

1. Pull the braids back to the nape of the neck. Alternatively, the braids can be flat twisted back or braided back into cornrows.
2. Take a large scarf and tie at around the hair so that the hair is in a ponytail.
3. Twist the ends of the braids. Use about five braids and twist (not two strand twists).
4. Use back rubber bands at the ends of the twists if desired. Tuck the ends of the twists into the scarf.

Have fun creating styles with box braids. Braids are a versatile, protective style that can provide an almost endless supply of styling options. The braids can look professional or hip; they can fit the wearer's mood or personal style. With the braids, a lady can have beautiful hair for several weeks without worry.

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