Once your box braids reach their expiry date, you should consider removing them as soon as possible. But how to remove box braids, and what to do after taking out box braids from your head?
Removing box braids is pretty simple, cut, unravel, and remove the hair with care. After removing it, you shouldn’t comb your hair; instead, detangle it using fingers and wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner.
But what products to use for aftercare? Can I take them out quickly? When should I exactly consider removing box braids? You’ll find all these answers in the following discussion.
What Must You Know Before Removing Your Hair Extensions?
Before you remove your box braids, you should know some important factors. When you start the unraveling process, make sure you give pre-treatment to your hair and be gentle while removing the extension.
Ensure you know the right process for removing box braids. However, aftercare is the key factor that you must know to protect your hair from damage.
A. When To Take Box Braids Out?
You should keep your box braids for 6 to 8 weeks. Keeping box braids for more than 8 weeks can cause horrible damage to your hair and can even lead to traction alopecia.
B. Can You Take Out Box Braids Fast?
If you need to take out your box braids fast, consider talking to a professional hairstylist. You shouldn’t rush the braid-removing process.
If you do, there is a possibility of cutting your natural hair. Plus, you may end up tangling the extension with your real hair, which will become difficult to detangle without damaging your hair.
C. Things To Do After Taking Out Box Braids
After you remove the hair extensions, don’t brush your hair. Instead, follow these aftercare tips:
1. Use Your Fingers To Detangle
After you remove your hair, use your fingers to detangle it instead of a brush. It’s because your scalp will have a lot of product buildup, and your hair will also be dry and rough, which can be difficult to comb without tearing.
2. Shampoo Your Hair And Scalp
Use a clarifying shampoo to wash your scalp to eliminate all the product buildup, oil, and dirt.
3. Use Deep Moisturizing Conditioner
Your hair was covered for 8 weeks, so they need extra moisture after you take down the braids. Apply a thick layer of deep moisturizing conditioner, then wear a shower cap and leave it for at least 20 minutes. After that, rinse your hair thoroughly.
4. Trim Your Hair
The last step of aftercare is trimming the damaged part of your hair. If you don’t have many skills with scissors, consider trimming your hair through a professional.
D. How To Remove Box Braids The Right Way: A Step-By-Step
The process of removing hair is pretty simple, but you have to be gentle and patient. Here is the step-by-step guide on how to remove box braids in the right way:
- First, section your hair into 4 or 8 parts.
- Start by cutting the locks of the extension; make sure you cut the extension at least 2 inches below where your natural hair ends.
- Now damp your hair and start unraveling the braid from the bottom to top.
- Once you reach the top, gently pull out the extension from your hair and detangle them using your fingers.
E. What Products To Use For Taking Care Of Unbraided Hair?
After taking your box braids down, your first concern is to ensure hydration and moisture in your hair. In that case, applying natural oils like jojoba oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, or avocado oil are perfect hydration bombs for your hair.
If there is still product buildup left in your scalp after washing with clarifying shampoo, go for an apple cider vinegar rinse, and don’t forget your moisturizing conditioner.
F. Should I Wash My Hair After Taking Out Box Braids?
Yes, you should wash your hair after taking the box braids out. Use a clarifying shampoo, deep conditioner, and hydrating mask (optional) to give your hair enough moisture and hydration.
box braids with curls
Box braids with curls, also known as “curly box braids” or “curly ends box braids,” are a popular variation of the classic box braids hairstyle. This style combines the sleekness and structure of box braids with the added texture and volume of curly or wavy ends. Here’s how you can achieve box braids with curls:
- Prepare the Hair: Start with clean, dry, and detangled hair. If you’re using extensions, choose high-quality synthetic or human hair extensions that match your desired curl pattern. You can also use pre-curled extensions for convenience.
- Section the Hair: Divide your hair into small, even sections using a rattail comb. The size of the sections will depend on your preferred braid thickness. Secure the sections you’re not working on with clips or hair ties to keep them organized.
- Braid the Hair: Begin braiding each section from the root. As you reach the midpoint of each braid, transition from the traditional box braid technique to incorporating the curls. You can do this by adding the curly or wavy extensions to the remaining length of the braid.
- Attach the Curls: Take a small section of the pre-curled extension hair and intertwine it with the remaining length of the braid. This can be done by splitting the extension hair into smaller strands and braiding it with the natural hair.
- Secure the Ends: Once you’ve reached the desired length, secure the ends of the braids using your preferred method, such as using rubber bands, hot water sealing, or burning the ends (as mentioned in a previous response). Make sure the ends are secure and won’t unravel.
- Style and Maintain: Once your box braids with curls are complete, you can style them as desired. You can leave the curls loose or manipulate them into various styles such as updos, half-up hairstyles, or ponytails. To maintain the curls, avoid excessive manipulation and use a lightweight moisturizer or curl-defining product to enhance and protect the curls.
What can I use to seal my box braids?
To seal box braids, you can use various products or techniques to secure the ends and prevent them from unraveling. Here are a few common methods:
- Hot Water Dip: This is a popular method for sealing box braid ends. Boil water and let it cool slightly until it is hot but not boiling. Dip the ends of the box braids into the hot water for a few seconds, then remove them. The heat helps melt the synthetic fibers together, creating a seal. Be cautious not to burn yourself during this process.
- Burning the Ends: For synthetic box braids made from materials like Kanekalon or Toyokalon, you can use a lighter or a candle to carefully burn the ends. Hold the end of the braid near the flame, allowing it to melt slightly. Quickly pinch the melted end together to seal it. Be extremely careful with this method, ensuring that you have proper ventilation and take necessary fire safety precautions.
- Rubber Bands: Another option is to use small rubber bands specifically designed for hair. Once you have completed a braid, slide a rubber band over the end to secure it tightly. This method is quick and easy, and it doesn’t involve heat or fire. However, be cautious not to tie the rubber band too tightly to avoid unnecessary tension on the hair.
- Wrap with Thread: Some people opt to wrap the ends of their box braids with thread to secure them. Take a small piece of thread that matches the color of your braids, wrap it tightly around the end of the braid a few times, and tie a knot to secure it. Trim any excess thread for a neater finish.
FAQs
Is it normal for box braids to hurt?
It is normal for box braids to hurt. Box braids can be tight, and they can pull on the hair in different ways. This can cause pain and discomfort.
Is hair loss normal after box braids?
Yes, shredding hair after box braids is normal as your hair was holding all the heavy extensions for 8 weeks.
Can I relax my hair after removing box braids?
After removing your box braids, you should give your hair at least a week to adjust. Then you can consider applying relaxer lotion to your hair.
Do box braids rip out your hair?
Yes, box braids can rip out your hair, and it’s a very common problem. When you install the braids too tightly, it pulls the root from the scalp.
How to get rid of hair buildup when braids are still in?
You can use a tooth comb similar to a rat tail comb to get rid of hair buildup from the visible areas while having your braids on.
goddess braids vs bohemian box braids
Goddess braids use a looser style with more layers, while bohemian box braids use a tight style with fewer layers.
can you color your hair before getting braids
You can color your hair before getting braids if you want. Some people find it helpful to do so because it allows them to better visualize the final look of their braids. However, you should be aware that coloring your hair before getting braids can sometimes cause damage to your hair.
Can White Girls Get Box Braids
Yes, white girls can get box braids. They can be done on short hair as well, making them a good option for those who want to try out the style but don’t want to commit to long hair. However, there are some things to keep in mind when getting box braids if you’re a white girl. First, it’s important to choose the right color – black or brown are good options. Second, make sure you go to a qualified stylist who knows how to do box braids on white hair – not everyone does.
under braids vs over braids
Under braids are shorter, tighter braids that are usually placed near the scalp. They’re generally considered more fashionable and stylish than over braids.
Over braids are longer, looser braids that can be placed anywhere on the head. Overbraiding can be done for a variety of reasons, including to add volume or texture to the hair.
Related Articles:
- Can Mexicans Wear Box Braids
- Are Box Braids Cultural Appropriation
- Who Invented Box Braids
Verdict
So you now know what to do after taking out box braids and what products to use for aftercare. You shouldn’t skip washing your hair right after taking the protective style off as it can cause tangle on hair, and detangling them will cost you excessive hair shredding.
