Bohemian box braids, also called goddess braids, are box braids with curly hair added on their edges. They evolved from traditional box braids dating back to the 70s and remain popular because of the number of hairstyles they can create. They are simple to re-style and good at protecting your hair. But, we often wonder what hair to use for bohemian box braids to get the best results and you’ll get all the details below.
For bohemian box braids, you need braiding and curly hair. The first choice for braiding hair is Kanekalon braiding hair. It is common in creating braiding styles and is available in various lengths and colors. You can also use x-pressions hair, made with synthetic fibers for the braiding part. Use Free tress deep twist curly crochet hair for the finishing curly look.
What Do You Need For Bohemian Box Braids?
The things you will need to create box braids will also depend on the method that you will use. Below are some things you will need:
- Comb- rat-tailed or a wide-toothed comb
- Styling gel
- Braiding hair
- Wavy hair
- Superglue
- Clips
- Conditioner
- Shampoo
- Crochet
What Hair To Use For Boho Box Braids?
Kanekalon braiding hair is the first choice for the boho box braids. It is a higher-quality synthetic fiber and cheaper than others. Also, it is easier to match your skin tone since the kanekalon hair is available in multiple colors. The next best thing you can use for boho box braids is x-pression which has close qualities to kanekalon.
What To Consider While Choosing Hair For Bohemian Box Braids?
Several things will come into play when determining the right hair for bohemian braids. With several options in the market, you must look out for one that will serve you effectively. Below are some to consider in your selection.
1. Weight
One of the cons of bohemian box braids is that it is bulky and sometimes heavy on your head. Therefore, light hair should be among the things you consider while shopping. You can use Befunny’s extra-long pre-stretched braiding hair that is slighter and good for people with thin hair.
2. Durability
A well-maintained bohemian box braid can last for a period ranging between six and eight weeks. To last this long, various qualities need to be present, for example, the hair needs to be easy to maintain, be able to shine for a long time, and hair that does not tangle often.
3. Material
Bohemian box braids involve twisting the hair at the edge or halfway to achieve the style. Therefore, hairs that can curl and twist to the desired outcome are needed.
4. Cost
Human hair is less bulky but more costly compared to synthetic. If you are on a tight budget, you can buy synthetic hair because they work almost the same as human hair and are much cheaper.
How Much Hair Is Needed For Bohemian Box Braids?
The amount of hair needed depends on a few things, including head size, hairstyle, whether long or short, and thickness. Small or medium-sized box braids can use 2 or 3 packs of hair depending on the type you’re using. Large or jumbo size box braids can use 4 or 5 packs of hair, while the extra-large or giant-sized braids can use more than six packs.
How Are Bohemian Box Braids Created?
The following steps are used in creating the box braids. However, these steps may vary depending on the method you use.
- First, section your hair into small, even sections either at the back or front of your head, and use rubber bands to hold these sections. After sectioning, you can then start making the box shapes that you will attach to the braids.
- Next, the hair is braided close to the scalp. Add the braiding hair to the section and weave it together. Since the braiding hair needs to be added curls at the edge, leave it halfway with its edge undone for styling.
- The Hair is cornrowed in a straight back pattern. Take a small section of hair and divide it into 3 strands using your rat-tailed comb. Twist the hair as you would on a braid while adding hair from below the braid to create a cornrow.
- The hair is crocheted onto the cornrows – Use crochet to create a latch hook on the cornrow, attach the braid to its opening, and pull it through the braid. Push the opening over the crochet, then hook the braids tail end and pull it through the opening to tie the cornrow.
- The hair is twisted or braided into bohemian box braids – Pull and tighten the braid over the cornrow until it is secure to achieve the bohemian box braids. For a twisted effect, you can attach a twisted braid to the end of your braid or soak the hair in hot water.
How Can I Style My Bohemian Box Braids?
There are various ways you can style bohemian box braids. Below are some of these styles.
Bohemian box braids bun
Involves creating a messy bun on the top of the braids. This style is much more efficient especially when you intend to wear a head scarf to cover it.
Short Bohemian box braids
This style involves shorter than normal braids length and it’s best for a casual look.
Bohemian box braid ponytail
In this style, you add a ponytail to the box braids by holding the braids together with one of the braids. You can also wrap the braid with any other cloth matching a particular theme and this quality makes this style best for parties.
Bohemian box braids cornrows
The hair is braided into cornrows and this style can be in multiple colors for a more stylish look.
Chunky bohemian box braid
The chunky style is less painful and faster to create.
How To Take Care Of Bohemian Box Braids
Bohemian box braids are a low-maintenance style, this is the exact reason many people like it. However, there are a few things done from time to time for maintenance:
1. Regularly oil your scalp to reduce itching and prevent dandruff. In most cases, regularly scratching your scalp in between the boxes can loosen the braids and make them break sooner than intended.
2. Condition the braids three times a week to keep them vibrant and hydrated. The conditioning also helps to keep your natural hair hydrated and refreshed.
3. At night wear a silk bonnet on your braids or sleep on a silk pillow to minimize friction. Friction caused while sleeping by twisting and turning can lead to frizz and damage the hair sooner.
How Long Does Bohemian Box Braids Last
Bohemian braids can last up to 8 weeks if they are well maintained. More time than this can end up causing breakage on the newly growing hair. The time also depends on the quality of work done by your stylist and the size of the braids, with smaller boxes surviving longer than jumbo sizes.
FAQ
Below are questions for additional information. We’re sure you will find them very useful.
Can curly hair be braided?
Yes, curly hair can be braided! It is actually quite easy to braid it, due to its texture and natural volume.
What Curly Hair Do You Use For Bohemian Box Braids?
For curly hair, you can use free tress deep twist hair which is popular because it is light, silky, and does not shed.
How Much Hair Do You Need For Jumbo Box Braids?
A jumbo or extra-large braids require over 6 packs or more depending on the head size and style.
What Hair Texture Do You Need For Box Braids?
Bohemia box braids can work with any hair texture if it is long enough to be braided. Braids also come in different textures which helps in choosing the texture that matches your hair. Most stylists are well experienced in deciding on different textures either thick or thin and can assist you with the right braid for your texture.
How Long Hair Do You Need For Box Braids?
The length of the hair depends on the style you pick. For hip-length, chunky bohemian box braids, you will require at most two packs of x-pressions or kanekalon hair. For the curly finish, you will also need one pack of free tress deep twist hairs.
What Size Box Braids For Thin Hair?
The size box braids recommended for people with thin hair are small or medium-sized. These are lighter and place less tension on the natural hair. The weight of the hair selected should also be lightweight enough for your hair type. Some shorter styles also work best in maintaining your thin hair by reducing tension.
What are the possible causes of pain from box braid?
Box braid pain can occur due to improper technique or incorrect hair placement. If you’re not using the correct techniques, your hair may be pulled too tight, causing discomfort and even pain.
Additionally, if your box braid is placed too tightly against your scalp, it may cause skin irritation or pressure points that lead to pain.
In some cases, box braiding can also cause knots and tangles in the hair which can create additional tension and pain. If you experience any type of discomfort while wearing a box braid style, please consult a licensed professional for help!
signs you should take out your bohemian box braids
If your box braids are looking a bit ratty or if you’re noticing any of the following signs, it’s time to take them out: tangling, dryness, breakage, frizziness, loss of elasticity.
What Hair Products To Use For Box Braids?
Various products are required to keep the box braids looking well oiled, hydrated, and less itchy. You may consider the below oils to help soothe your scalp:
- Shine ‘N Jam Magic Fingers setting Mousse – It is used to set the hair after being prepared.
- Fresh-Clean Astringent that was originally used to cleanse the skin and can also be used on the scalp
- Moisture Miracle cream with coconut oil – Has a leave-in conditioner and oils that can keep your hair vibrant for almost a week.
- Queen hair oil or any other that contains multiple ingredients that add moisture to your scalp.
What Are Some Hairstyles For Box Braids?
There are various hairstyles for box braids example, box braid burns, box braid cornrows, long box braids, and many more.
Do Box Braids Make Your Hair Grow?
Yes, box braids are known to protect your hair while it grows. In this style, natural hair is in box-shaped sections that allow it to get enough air and space to grow. This style also frees you from daily styling giving your hair the needed time to glow without everyday human actions.
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Findings
Bohemian box braids are popular for their beauty and convenience. The ability to change the style to achieve multiple looks and the less maintenance required are some of their merits. The braids give stylish looks for various occasions while protecting your natural hair as it grows.
Many types of hair in the market can help you achieve the desired looks but getting the right one is sometimes hard. What hair to use for bohemian box braids is based on several factors. Durability, texture, and cost are some factors that should help you determine the hair you will settle on.
