Love Your Hair With Knotless Braids

Bare a fan favorite amongst every woman, young or old. If you’ve ever gotten the beloved protective style installed, you know how much of a timesaver it can be, and let’s be honest, braids make us feel beautiful. Even with the style’s timesaving capabilities and versatility, there is a downside, box braids can be heavy and can sometimes put a strain on the scalp and our delicate edges.

To get around this, knotless braids are the new rave in town. Traditional box braids are created by wrapping the extension hair around the base of the natural hair and creating a knot attachment at the scalp while knotless braids are created by incorporating the extension hair into the base of the natural hair invisibly without a knot. These braids don’t have the traditional knot you likely grew up with at the start of each braid. Knotless braids uses the feed- in technique where the hair is infused midbraid to create a lighter, and what some would call a more natural- looking braid. Not to mention, the braids are coveted for their comfort and ease on the hairline. These braids are definitely a better option because they put less stress and tension on the hair and scalp.

Knotless braids are a traditional three- strand braid with a beneficial twist. Like box braids, your hair is divided into square parts ( or sometimes triangle- shaped divisions). However, knotless braids do not include the small knot that starts at the root of traditional box braids. Traditionally, this knot is used to attach braiding hair. This involves adding small amounts of braiding hair to your natural hair as you go, making for a braid that sports a flatter appearance. As a result, your braids also aren’t as heavy on your scalp, which can help minimize the risk of hair breakage.

The benefit of the knotless technique when done properly is it prevents traction alopecia, which is a common form of hair loss for women who have braids that are installed too tight with the large knots. This technique can take longer to install, but it’s worth the health of the hair and scalp.

Care

TO preserve the health of the hair, make sure you thoroughly cleanse and deep condition the hair before installing the braids Like any protective style, you’ll want to take care of your scalp and remove any build- up over the course of the four to six weeks you’re rocking your hair. One of the benefits of knotless braids is your scalp is accessible. You can cleanse or spot- treat your scalp without much fuss. It’s also important to keep your hair hydrated with weekly mousse or oil sheens, and to focus on washing your scalp rather than the entire braided style. Also, tie your hair down at night with a silk scarf, bonnet or cap to protect it.

Styling Your Braids

THE limit does not exist when it comes to styling options. You can throw your braids up in a high or low ponytail if you’re going to work out, styling in a bun or half- up, half- down bun for dinner, or accessorizing an updo for a wedding or party. There are many variations you can add to the braids itself, boho knotless with curls, the colorful gel bands and beads. Try the knotless bob for a fun, sexy look that is guaranteed to turn heads.