15/ Box braids: how to properly care for synthetic braids and tips to keep your natural hair healthy
'The synthetic braids can be washed with shampoo and conditioner normally, in the most common and traditional way', explains hairdresser Ainá Garcia
The most important thing is that the shampoo is salt-free to benefit not only your natural hair, but the synthetic braids as well.
You can sleep with a cap or turban. Swap your cotton pillowcase for one made of satin or silk, as these materials avoid friction between the threads when you sleep.
' Hydration can also be done normally. The synthetic fiber is very resistant and can even receive coloring and discoloration', clarified the hairdresser
For women who are going through the hair transition process and want more practicality on a daily basis, box braids are a good choice.
Women with kinky and curly hair choose to braid with jumbo or kanekalon
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ExploreBox braids are the famous synthetic braids made from the root that bring a lot of style to the look, in addition to practicality. Women with kinky and curly hair choose to braid with jumbo or kanekalon, the most popular materials on the market. Even though they are false strands, they also need treatments like any other type of lock.
How to wash box braids?
According to hairdresser Ainá Garcia, from Madame Garcia, in Rio de Janeiro, box braids do not have any type of restriction when washing. "The synthetic braids can be washed with shampoo and conditioner normally, in the most common and traditional way," she explained.
The most important thing is that the shampoo is salt-free to benefit not only your natural hair, but the synthetic tresses as well. As the braid is pulled very close to the root, the important thing is to massage the scalp well to remove the dirt that may remain in the knots, in addition to activating the blood circulation to help your hair grow.
The conditioner is to be applied only to lengths and ends. A tip is to pass a minimum amount of oil on the scalp before washing, as the region is very sensitive due to tight braids and this will help.
Can I moisturize the box braids?
"Hydration can also be done normally. The synthetic fiber is very resistant and can even receive coloring and discoloration", clarified the expert. That is, you can be blonde, brunette, redhead and even platinum with your synthetic braids.
Colored box braids are also very successful. The braids in rose pink, blue, green and with a mix of colors have been very successful with fans of the style, who get a look with much more personality.
According to Ainá, cornrows have no restriction: "Box braids are for everyone! They are very beautiful, practical and representative".
Take care of box braids when sleeping
The professional gave tips on how to preserve the cornrows, especially during the night's sleep. "You can sleep with a cap or turban. Swap your cotton pillowcase for one made of satin or silk, as these materials avoid the friction of the threads when you sleep," she said.
The silk or satin pillowcase tip is for any hair type. In addition to not causing breakage in the wires due to friction, this type of fabric makes the wires wake up tidy, without frizz and embarrassment.
Are you in the hair transition phase? Invest in box braids
For women who are going through the hair transition process and want more everyday practicality, box braids are a good choice. You won't have to worry about texturing the straightened part. "It's the best option to go from chemically treated to natural without getting short hair", pointed out Ainá.
If you don't have the courage to cut all the chemistry off with the Big Chop, you don't have to think twice: look for a reliable hairdresser and use box braids.
