I’ve always been a fan of box braids, but lately, I’ve been facing a frustrating issue – my braids are sticking up! It’s become a common struggle for many of us who love rocking this stylish protective hairstyle. But why are our box braids defying gravity? In this article, I’ll explore the root causes behind this annoyance and share some expert tips to keep our braids perfectly laid and looking fabulous. Say goodbye to box braid struggles and hello to sleek and flawless hair!This is an amazing article On How to start box braids for beginners Check it out for all of the details.
Why Are My Box Braids Sticking Up
One common reason is dryness and lack of moisture in the hair. When the hair lacks moisture, it becomes dry and prone to frizz, causing the braids to stick up. Tension from tight braiding can also contribute to this issue. Additionally, using the wrong hair products or not properly caring for the braids can result in them sticking up. Braids that have been kept in for a long time are more likely to stick up as well. To prevent and fix this problem, it is important to moisturize the hair regularly, avoid tight braiding, use appropriate hair products, and wash the braids frequently. Restyling the braids using a braid or hair spray and a comb can also help.
Causes of Box Braids Sticking Up
Not Enough Tension
One of the main causes of box braids sticking up is not having enough tension during the braiding process. When the braids are not pulled tightly enough, they can easily start to unravel and stand upright instead of laying flat against your head. There are a few factors that can contribute to not enough tension.
Loose Braiding
If your braids are not tightly secured to your scalp, they are more likely to stick up. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as rushing through the braiding process or not pulling each section of hair tightly enough before moving on to the next one. It’s important to be patient and take your time to ensure that each braid is secure.
Inadequate Stretching
Another factor that can contribute to not enough tension is inadequate stretching of the hair before braiding. If your hair is not properly stretched, the braids may appear loose and stick up. Stretching can be done in different ways, such as using stretching techniques like banding or blow drying with tension. Finding the stretching method that works best for your hair type can help prevent this issue.
Insufficient Pulling
Lastly, not pulling the hair tightly enough while braiding can also cause the braids to stick up. It’s important to apply firm pressure and consistently pull the hair as you braid to ensure that each braid is tight and secure. This will help prevent them from sticking up and maintaining a sleek appearance.
Improper Braiding Technique
In addition to not enough tension, another common cause of box braids sticking up is an improper braiding technique. This refers to the way the hair is sectioned, parted, and knotted during the braiding process. Here are some factors to consider:
Incorrect Sectioning
Proper sectioning is crucial for achieving neat and well-structured box braids. If the sections of hair are too large or unevenly sized, it can result in braids that stick up or look messy. Take the time to section your hair evenly and make sure that each section is manageable and can be braided tightly.
Uneven Parting
Similar to incorrect sectioning, uneven parting can also contribute to box braids sticking up. When the hair is not evenly parted, it can affect the overall appearance of the braids and make them stand upright instead of lying flat against the scalp. Take care to create clean and symmetrical parts to ensure a more polished look.
Improper Knotting
The way the hair is knotted at the base of each braid can also impact how they lay against the scalp. If the knots are not secured tightly enough or if they are too bulky, it can cause the braids to stick up. Make sure to knot the hair securely and avoid creating large knots that may disrupt the smoothness of the braids.
Hair Type and Texture
Another factor that can contribute to box braids sticking up is the natural hair type and texture. Not all hair types have the same coarseness and grip, which can affect how well the braids lay against the scalp. Here are a couple of considerations:
Fine or Silky Hair
If you have fine or silky hair, it may be more challenging to achieve the desired tension and hold with box braids. Fine hair tends to be more prone to slipping out of braids and not staying in place. Therefore, it’s important to take extra care and pay attention to the tension and knotting techniques to ensure that the braids stay in place and lay flat.
Lack of Coarseness
Similarly, hair that lacks coarseness may also struggle to hold tension and prevent braids from sticking up. Coarser hair types tend to have more texture and grip, which helps the braids stay in place. However, if your hair is not naturally coarse, it doesn’t mean you can’t achieve well-behaved box braids. It may just require some additional techniques and products to help maintain the desired look.
Lack of Grip
Hair that lacks grip, regardless of its coarseness, can also cause box braids to stick up. This can be due to factors like overly smooth or slippery strands or having a low porosity hair type. To counter this, it can be helpful to use products that provide additional grip, such as gels or styling creams specifically formulated for braided hairstyles.
Using the Wrong Products
The products you use on your box braids can also contribute to them sticking up. It’s important to choose products that are suitable for your hair type and that provide the right amount of hold without weighing the hair down. Here are a few considerations:
Improper Detangling Products
When detangling your hair before braiding, using the wrong products can cause the hair to be too slippery or overly moisturized, making it difficult for the braids to stay put. Avoid heavy conditioners or detangling sprays that may leave residue or make the hair too slick. Opt for lightweight detanglers or moisturizers that provide adequate slip without leaving residue.
Incompatible Styling Products
Using styling products that are not compatible with your hair type can also affect how well your box braids stay in place. For example, using products formulated for straight hair on curly hair may not provide enough hold, causing the braids to stick up. It’s important to choose products that are specifically designed for your hair type or for braided hairstyles to ensure optimal hold and control.
Heavy Oils or Moisturizers
Using heavy oils or moisturizers on your box braids can weigh them down and cause them to stick up. While it’s important to keep your hair and scalp moisturized, using overly heavy products can have the opposite effect. Look for lightweight oils or moisturizers that provide the necessary hydration without compromising the hold of your braids.
Incorrect Maintenance
The way you care for and maintain your box braids can also impact how well they lay against your head. Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your braids looking neat and preventing them from sticking up. Consider the following factors:
Sleeping Without Protective Covering
Not protecting your box braids while sleeping can lead to friction and rubbing against your pillow, causing them to become unravelled and stick up. It’s important to cover your braids with a satin or silk scarf or use a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and maintain the integrity of the braids.
Not Keeping Braids Moisturized
While heavy products can cause the braids to stick up, it’s still important to keep your scalp and braids moisturized to prevent dryness and breakage. Dry hair is more prone to frizz and can cause the braids to stand upright. Use a lightweight moisturizing spray or oil to keep your hair hydrated without weighing it down.
Excessive Manipulation
Excessive manipulation can disturb the structure of your box braids and cause them to stick up. Constantly pulling, twirling, or playing with your braids can loosen them and make them stand upright. It’s important to minimize excessive touching and manipulation to help maintain the integrity and neatness of your braids.
Frequent Washing
Although it’s necessary to keep your scalp clean, washing your box braids too often can lead to frizz and unruliness. Excessive washing can cause the braids to become looser and stick up. Try to limit washing to once every one to two weeks and use a gentle shampoo and conditioner designed for braids to maintain cleanliness without compromising your style.
Improper Drying Techniques
The way you dry your box braids can also affect how well they lay against your head. Improper drying techniques can disrupt the structure of the braids and cause them to stick up. Consider the following factors:
Air Drying without Stretching
Allowing your box braids to air dry without stretching them can lead to them sticking up. Wet hair tends to shrink, and if it dries in its shrunken state, the braids can become shorter and start to stand upright. To prevent this, gently stretch each braid while it’s drying to encourage length and ensure that the braids lie flat against your head.
Using High Heat Blow Dryers
Using high heat blow dryers to dry your box braids can cause the hair to become too hot and lose its shape, resulting in braids that stick up. If you choose to use a blow dryer, opt for a cool or low heat setting and hold the dryer at a safe distance from the braids to minimize any potential heat damage.
Tightening Braids on Wet Hair
Tightening your box braids while they are wet can also lead to them sticking up. Wet hair has more elasticity, and as it dries, it can shrink and cause the braids to become tighter and stand upright. Make sure to allow your hair to be fully dry before tightening any loose sections to avoid this issue.https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ql1z5f3it4E
How to Prevent Box Braids from Sticking Up
Now that we’ve explored the various causes of box braids sticking up, it’s time to look at ways to prevent this issue and ensure that your box braids lay flat and look their best. By following these tips, you can achieve sleek and well-behaved box braids:
Ensure Proper Tension
To prevent box braids from sticking up, it’s crucial to ensure proper tension during the braiding process. This involves applying firm pressure, consistently pulling the hair as you braid, using small sections, and tugging the braids securely. These techniques will help create tight and secure braids that are less likely to stick up.
Master the Braiding Technique
A proper braiding technique is essential for achieving neat and well-structured box braids. Practice correct sectioning, even parting, and secure knotting to ensure that your braids lay flat against your head. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the technique and seek guidance from professionals if needed.
Consider Hair Type and Texture
Understanding your hair type and texture is important when it comes to box braids. Fine or silky hair may require additional care and attention to ensure the desired tension and hold. Using products that provide extra grip can also be beneficial. Tailoring your approach to your specific hair type will help prevent your braids from sticking up.
Choose Suitable Products
Follow Correct Maintenance Routine
When it comes to products, choose ones that are specifically formulated for your hair type and for braided hairstyles. Use lightweight detanglers or moisturizers, avoid incompatible styling products, and opt for lightweight oils or moisturizers that won’t weigh down your braids. Selecting the right products will help keep your braids in place and prevent them from sticking up.
Proper maintenance is crucial for preventing box braids from sticking up. Protect your braids while sleeping by using a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase. Keep your scalp and braids moisturized with lightweight products, minimize excessive manipulation, and limit washing to maintain the structure and appearance of your braids.
Implement Proper Drying Techniques
Finally, ensure that you’re drying your box braids properly to avoid them sticking up. Stretch each braid gently while air drying to prevent shrinkage, use low heat settings if using a blow dryer, and allow your hair to fully dry before tightening any loose sections. These techniques will help maintain the shape and smoothness of your braids.
Tips for Proper Tension
To achieve optimal tension and prevent box braids from sticking up, consider these helpful tips:
Apply Firm Pressure
When braiding, apply firm pressure to ensure the braids are tight and secure. This will help them lay flat against your head and prevent them from sticking up.
Ensure Consistent Pulling
Consistently pull the hair as you braid to maintain tension throughout the entire process. Don’t rush through the braiding process and take your time to ensure each section is secure.
Use Small Sections
Using small sections of hair can make it easier to achieve tight and neat braids. Working with smaller sections allows for more control and ensures that each braid is secure.
Tug Braids Securely
After completing each braid, give it a gentle tug to ensure that it is securely in place. Tugging will help to remove any slack and ensure that the braid lays flat against your head.
Conclusion
If you’ve been struggling with box braids sticking up, there are several factors to consider. Not having enough tension, using an improper braiding technique, having specific hair types and textures, using the wrong products, incorrect maintenance, and improper drying techniques can all contribute to this issue. However, by following the tips and suggestions mentioned in this article, you can prevent box braids from sticking up and achieve sleek and well-behaved braids that you can rock with confidence. Remember to be patient, take your time, and experiment with different techniques and products until you find what works best for your hair. With the right approach and care, you’ll be able to enjoy your beautiful box braids without any sticky situations.We wrote this article on What Hair To Buy For Bohemian Box Braids Check it out for all of the details.