Sleeping with a satin scarf or bonnet helps maintain shine and prevent breakage. They’re not going to frizz out immediately after getting wet, making them perfect for vacation. While you’re there for your braiding appointment (which could take a while, as anyone who’s ever packed snacks for a braid appointment will tell you), ask your braider how to do box braids to get their tips on your preferred style.Ĭompared to loose natural hair, box braids are a very low-maintenance hairstyle. Unlike regular braids, they are named for the way the individual hair sections are parted for use: forming boxes on the scalp resembling a grid.īox braids can be done at home, though the sheer volume of hair might make you more inclined to seek out a braiding stylist. Box braids are a particularly popular style. Not only do they keep our natural hair protected, but they also encourage hair growth. However, a foaming shampoo like the Best of Beauty-winning Carol's Daughter Wash Day Delight Water-to-Foam Shampoo With Rose Water will get your scalp clean without leaving any residue.Protective styles are the powerhouse of natural hairstyles. The friction that comes from washing cornrows with regular shampoo can cause frizzing because of friction. 'I use a shampoo foaming cleanse,' explains Sims. Washing cornrows is different from washing box braids as cornrows are attached to your scalp and more prone to frizzing up - you need to handle this style more delicately.

Los Angeles-based hairstylist and co-founder of Flawless By Gabrielle Union Larry Sims recommends waiting 'two weeks after the install' to wash your cornrow-style braids. Washing CornrowsĬornrows need to be washed, too.

'Moisture is a breeding bed for bacteria and when you have wet hair on pillows, it's the perfect medium to grow bugs if you don't change your pillowcases frequently,' warns King. It's not just box braids that can experience mold - all kinds of hairstyles and textures are susceptible.

'Washing your braids and going to sleep while your hair is still wet is usually the culprit,' explains Cooper before adding, 'You can avoid this by blow-drying your braids with low heat on a low speed.' If you do insist on air-drying, Cooper states, 'Make sure it's done in the daytime when you can actually go outside and let the sun speed up the process.' Mold grows when braids don't have ample time to dry.

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