In this article, I will go over the question “What Hair Type Do You Need For Box Braids” plus give you some extra details on how to manage and do your own Box braids. Let’s get it. This is an amazing article On Knotless Braids Vs Box Braids: The Best Check it out for all of the details.
Box braids can be done on both Coily Natural Hair and Straight Natural Hair. When you’re getting ready to buy what you need, you’ll usually be looking for synthetic hair extensions, specifically a type called Kanekalon hair. Kanekalon Jumbo braid is the one they recommend because it’s really good in terms of quality and how long it lasts.
Most of the time, synthetic hair is used for making box braids. This is because it’s not too expensive, easy to find, and you can get it in lots of different colors and lengths. The trick is to pick high-quality synthetic hair that’s a close match to your own hair’s texture. That way, when you’re all done, your braids will look like they naturally fit in with your hair.
Just in case you’re allergic to synthetic hair or you’d rather use real human hair, you have another option. You can choose to go with human hair instead.
Understanding Coily Natural Hair and Straight Natural Hair for Box Braids
Coily Natural Hair
Coily natural hair, also referred to as afro-textured or kinky hair, is the natural hair texture of certain populations in Africa and the African diaspora. It is characterized by tightly coiled, densely packed curls that form a unique pattern. The coils can vary in size, from small corkscrews to larger coils, and they often exhibit a great deal of shrinkage, appearing shorter than they actually are when dry.
Characteristics of Coily Natural Hair
- Texture and Volume: Coily natural hair has a rich texture and voluminous appearance due to its tightly coiled nature. This texture gives the hair its distinct shape and allows for versatile styling options.
- Kinky and Coily: The coils in coily natural hair create a unique pattern that contributes to its overall appearance. The hair may have a zigzag or spiral shape, resulting in a textured look that stands out.
- Maintenance Challenges: Coily natural hair can be challenging to maintain and style due to its density and tendency to dry out. It requires regular moisturizing, protective styling, and careful detangling to keep it healthy and manageable.
Styling Options for Coily Natural Hair
Coily natural hair offers a wide range of styling options that celebrate its unique texture and beauty. Some popular styles for coily hair include:
- Afro: The afro is an iconic hairstyle that showcases the natural volume and texture of coily hair. It can be styled in various sizes, from a small afro to a larger, more voluminous one.
- Braids and Twists: Braids and twists are versatile protective styles that can be achieved with coily hair. They provide options for creative and low-maintenance hairstyles.
- Bantu Knots: Bantu knots are small, coiled sections of hair that are twisted and secured close to the scalp. This style creates a unique and eye-catching look.
- Wash and Go: The wash and go is a simple yet effective styling method for coily hair. It involves washing the hair, applying a leave-in conditioner or styling product, and allowing the hair to air dry without manipulation.
Straight Natural Hair
Straight natural hair, as the name suggests, is characterized by hair that grows in a straight pattern without any significant curl or coil. It is commonly associated with individuals of East Asian, Caucasian, and Indigenous American descent, although straight hair can be found in various ethnicities worldwide.
Characteristics of Straight Natural Hair
- Straight and Sleek: Straight natural hair has a smooth and sleek appearance due to its lack of curl or coil. It tends to lay flat against the scalp and falls straight down without significant volume or texture.
- Low Maintenance: Straight natural hair is often considered low maintenance compared to other hair textures. It is generally easier to comb, style, and manage due to its straight pattern.
- Versatile Styling: While straight hair lacks the natural texture and volume of coily hair, it is versatile when it comes to styling. It can be easily manipulated into various hairstyles, including updos, ponytails, and sleek straight looks.
Styling Options for Straight Natural Hair
Straight natural hair offers a range of styling options that showcase its sleek and smooth appearance. Some popular styles for straight hair include:
- Sleek Straight: Embracing the natural straightness of the hair, this style aims to achieve a smooth and polished look. It can be achieved using heat styling tools or chemical straightening methods.
- Updos and Ponytails: Straight hair lends itself well to updos and ponytails, allowing for elegant and sophisticated hairstyles. These styles can be achieved with minimal effort and provide a neat and tidy appearance.
- Bangs and Layers: Straight hair can be easily cut into bangs or layered to add dimension and movement. These styling options can enhance the overall look and create a personalized style.
Why Certain Hairstyles Are More Commonly Associated with Specific Textures
The association of certain hairstyles with specific hair textures is influenced by various factors, including cultural heritage, historical context, and societal norms. It’s important to note that these associations are not fixed or universal, and individuals should be free to express themselves through their chosen hairstyles.
Cultural Significance
Hairstyles, including box braids and dreadlocks, carry cultural significance for many black communities. They have been used as forms of self-expression, cultural identification, and connection to heritage. These styles have deep roots in African traditions and hold cultural value beyond just being a fashion statement.
Societal Perceptions
Despite the cultural significance of coily natural hair, it has often been stigmatized and viewed as unprofessional or unkempt in certain settings. This has led some individuals to feel the need to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards and straighten their hair to be accepted in professional environments. The perception of straight hair as more “polished” or “professional” is a societal construct that has influenced the association of certain hairstyles with specific hair textures.
Cultural Appropriation
Cultural appropriation is a complex issue that arises when individuals from one culture adopt elements or styles from another culture without understanding or respecting their cultural significance. The debate surrounding non-black individuals wearing box braids and dreadlocks often revolves around this issue. It’s important to approach cultural practices and styles with respect and understanding, acknowledging their origins and significance.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinctions between coily natural hair and straight natural hair is essential to appreciate the unique beauty and cultural significance associated with each. While individuals should be free to express themselves through their chosen hairstyles, it’s crucial to recognize the historical, cultural, and societal factors that have influenced the association of certain hairstyles with specific hair textures. By fostering a greater understanding and respect for diverse hair types, we can create a more inclusive and accepting society that celebrates the beauty of every individual.We wrote this article on How Much Does It Cost to Get Box Braids for Boys? Check it out for all of the details.