Box Braids are a great versatile protective style. Since I normally keep box braids in for at least two weeks, I always make sure that my hair is in good shape prior to installing box braids to protect the health of my hair.

Recommended Tools for Preparing Hair for Braids

• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Leave in Conditioner
• Oil Blend
• Hair Moisturizing Cream

Wash and Condition your Hair prior to installing Box Braids

Whether you are getting your hair professionally braided or you are installing your own box braids, be sure to wash and condition your hair. Since box braids can be worn between 2 and 6 weeks and you won’t be able to wash your hair thoroughly while they are installed, it is important to start on clean hair. If you are getting your hair professionally braided, ask your braider if washing your hair is part of the service.

If you choose to wash your own hair this can be done a day or two in advance of getting your box braids. Avoid using pomades, or gels on your hair after you wash it. Gels and pomades will likely be used during the braiding process and it’s best to avoid product buildup.

Detangle

Detangling your hair before getting box braids is an important step. This will help your braids make the process of braiding your hair go more smoothly. Since I am washing my hair prior to installing box braids, I detangle my hair while it is full of conditioner using a detangling brush.

Moisturize Hair prior to Installing Box Braids

Prior to installing box braids, I moisturize my hair using the Liquid Oil and Cream (LOC) method.

I apply my leave in conditioner.

I apply a mixture of oils. I use an oil blend containing both penetrating and non penetrating oils.

I use a styling butter to seal it in.