Protective Style: Box Braids

With the summer months upon us, quick and easy protective styling is a must in order to survive the heat. One of my favorite protective styles is box braids. I’ve been a box braids fan since Moesha and always loved getting my hair braided. Once I learned how to do my own braids, they have always been my go-to, especially during the summer when I need low maintenance. Over the last few years braids have transitioned from the micros to the old school Poetic Justice box braids and I have been loving it! So many celebs from Solange, who rocked them oh-so well and stylishly, to Angela Simmons and my fav Tia Mowry have been showing us that Brandy isn’t the only one who can sport the box braids.

When I saw Tia with her braids I became even more obsessed with her because we’ve never seen her or her sister Tamera in braids. It was so out of the norm for her and I just LOVE that she’s stepping out of box with her style. Let’s take a look at a photo shoot Tia did for We The Urban Magazine photographed by Rakeem Cunningham.

Isn’t she just gorg?! Love her!!!

Some tips to remember when getting/wearing box braids:

• Ensure that the stylist takes it easy on your edges – meaning not gripping them too tight. Because the edges are the most sensitive part of your hair it means that they can be easily broken. One thing I like to do when doing clients hair is slick down the edges before I braid the section – this helps me to not grip at the very edge (if that makes sense). I also have clients who request to leave their edges out.
• When finished braiding dip the ends of the braids in boiling hot water. This is my favorite part! It not only brings shine to the braids but helps to relax the braids from stiffness and lay down all the stray strands. It’s like the top coat of braids – it seals the style and completes the look. It’s a must!
• Oil your scalp with any type of natural oils you may use – argan oil, coconut oil, olive oil. This is another way to bring shine and also bring some moisture to your scalp. Continue with oiling your scalp at least once a week while you have your braids.
• Wrap your braids at night with a satin scarf and/or bonnet. This helps to keep them neat and prevent or reduce any fuzziness and helps to maintain the longevity of your braids. Although this is a low maintenance style, you still must care for your braids.

Let me know what you think about box braids. Is this is protective style for you or do you have another go-to?

Until next time…

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