Braids are decorative, but their primary purpose is to protect your hair from split ends, breakage, and dryness. At first glance, many people think women braid their hair to look more beautiful. That is true. But it is also true that women use braiding as a way to protect their hair from abrasive daily habits and exposure to different elements. Today, we will talk about knotless braids versus box braids.
These are two types of braids that look so attractive. Usually, you can see them on African-American women. But in the past few years, these types of braiding techniques are not reserved only for African American women.
Box braids have emerged in the past few years as a popular braiding style. But they also raise questions regarding scalp inflammation and hair shedding. Because of that, knotless braids are getting more and more popular.
They are pain-free and a lightweight version of the regular box braids. Thanks to their tension-less nature, knotless braids have become one of the most popular braiding styles.
Let’s get into the knotless braids versus box braids debate.
What Is The Difference Between The Two?
We have to start with the differences between knotless and box braids. The main difference is knotless braids start with the hair and then the braid is added using a feed-in technique. The technique provides a seamless natural look to the wearer. Traditional box braids are installed by forming a knot around the hair.
Generally speaking, there are eight differences between the two protective styles. Those are installation technique, versatility, how long it takes to install, scalp sensitivity, duration, hair breakage, cost, and appearance. We will get into each.
Installation Technique
Simply put, knotless braids are a variation of the regular box braids that are pain-free and cause less tension on the scalp.
Knotless braids appear natural and blend with the hair. They use a feed-in technique. For this knotless technique, you start braiding your natural hair, and then synthetic hair braids are inserted mid-way or mid-shaft using the feed-in technique.
Box braids, on the other hand, are installed by adding the braid as an extension around the base of your hair. Then, you make a knot and use the knot to anchor the synthetic braiding hair to your hair.
Versatility
Looking into another factor of the knotless braids versus box braids debate, we have to mention this. Box braids are inflexible and difficult to style following the installation. The tension from the knot can cause discomfort when styling. You have to wait for a few days for the braids to loosen up and then style them.
Knotless braids, on the other hand, can be easily styled from the moment you install them. They are light and cause no strain to the hair.
How Long Does It Take To Install
Women often avoid braids because of the time it takes to install the braided hairstyle. Going to the hair salon can cost you money but also hours of your time.
This is one area where box braids have an advantage. It takes between one and three hours to install them. It depends on the size and speed of your hair technician. If you want knotless braids, you might wait between four and eight hours depending on the size.
Scalp Sensitivity
We know that the scalp is sensitive. In this spirit, knotless braids are gentler and they do not feel as painful when they are installed. These braids are installed in a way that synthetic braids do not touch the scalp. At least not closely.
Box braids are purely synthetic hair braids. They tend to cause inflammation and make the scalp even more sensitive. They are more painful to install compared to knotless braids. This is because we make the knot closer to the scalp.
Duration
When you add braids to your hair, you want to know how long will they last. Again, it depends on the size and length.
But generally speaking, smaller box braids last longer than large ones. Micro braids, for example, can last between 10 and 12 weeks, while medium 8 to 10 weeks. Very large box braids last between 6 to 8 weeks.
Knotless braids do not last as long. Because of their feed-in technique, they do not last as long as traditional box braids. That means a maximum time of six weeks.
Hair Breakage
This is another area where knotless braids shine. They cause less hair breakage compared to box braids. With proper installation, you will see less friction and that will reduce the chances of hair breakage.
Box braids can cause hair loss and lead to traction alopecia. This is due to the constant tugging and pulling of the hair when forming the knot causes hair damage.
Cost
Box braids take a shorter time to install, and that reflects in the price. They are cheaper than knotless braids. The difference in price between the two can range between $50 and $150.
Sometimes, women opt for box braids because they are on a strict budget. Yes, they know the downsides, but sometimes the budget dictates the style.
Appearance
The general rule of thumb is that more expensive things tend to look more beautiful. That is the case here as well. Knotless braids have a seamless and natural look. This is because the hair braid blends with your natural hair. With box braids, the knot is at the base and doesn’t look as natural.
How to Choose Your Style?
As we saw, these two styles are very similar. Yes, there are differences between the two in style, lasting power, and more. But generally speaking, a hairstylist will recommend that you should not wear any braid style for more than 8 to 10 weeks.
More than that can be damaging to your scalp and edges. But with that in mind, knotless braids require less tension. They are less damaging overall.
When it comes to the knotless braids versus box braids dilemma, for most people, the budget is the deciding factor. If you want a pain-free braiding experience that will look more natural, opt for the knotless braids.
But if your budget is tight, or if you aim for a longer-lasting braid, a traditional box braid is the way to go.
