Are knotless braids suitable for all hair types? Find out now (2024)

FAQs

What kind of hair is best for knotless braids? ›

If you want less scalp tension and better manageability, go for knotless braids. But if volume and longevity are at the top of your needs, then box braids are the better choice for you.

As for texture, every hair type is fair game: No matter if you're straight, wavy, curly or coily, you can sport box braids with ease. There are different sizes of box braids: Small braids are often called micro braids and they're itty bitty plaits.

They get messy so quickly! Because the braid is started with your own hair, the scalp area of your braids gets both frizzy and messy quicker than usual. I notice that after the first two weeks of having knotless braids, the braids still look shiny and new but my scalp looks like I've had them in for a month!

"Knotless braids are a great protective style as they help to improve hair growth by protecting the hair strands," says Oludele. "It's also very easy to moisturize your scalp and keep the hair hydrated while wearing the braids."

Cons Of Knotless Braids

-They do require more maintenance than traditional styles since they don't hold up as well against water or sweat (due to their lack of knots). This means that you may need to re-braid sections more often if you plan on working out while wearing them or swimming regularly.

The risks of the hair separating from the synthetic braiding hair is higher, and in some cases, the look may only hold up for about four to six weeks. Size also matters here. Large knotless braids will inevitably last a shorter time than small knotless braids.

Knotless braids are a weightless, protective hairstyle that hairstylists often recommend for people with fine, thin, or thinning hair.

Answer: Excessive tension placed on the hair shafts, often after wearing extensions, weaves, braids or tight ponytails, can lead to a type of hair loss called Traction Alopecia. The hair is pulled so tightly that it damages the follicle.

What braids don't damage your hair? ›

Knotless Box Braids

The hairstyle is created using a feed-in braid technique instead of creating a knot at the root like with traditional box braids. As a result, there's less tension on the scalp, which can help minimize the risk of hair breakage (and especially great for those with thin or fine hair).

"Knotless braids are definitely a better option because [they put] less stress and tension on the hair and scalp," says Williams. "Braids can still be heavy if too much hair is used in the extension," she adds. But, she notes that when the technique is done correctly, you can help prevent traction alopecia.

Human hair knotless braids have a much sleeker, natural look compared to synthetic hair. Knotless braids and vacation just go together. I've gone on vacation with my natural hair several times, and while there are ways make traveling with natural hair easy, I prefer the wake-up-and-go convenience of knotless braids.

Here's a popular pick that includes three bundles of Kanekalon hair—most commonly used for box braids and cornrows—in a single pack, making it a great budget-friendly option. And since the hair is pre-stretched and medium-weight, your braids won't feel overly heavy once they're installed.

"Kanekalon is typically the go-to choice for braiding because it's widely available in a variety of lengths and colors," says Alexander, adding that it creates a great result for most braided styles.

Sensationnel 3X X-Pression Braid 84″

This hair is great for jumbo braids, ponytail braids, box braids, and cornrow braid hairstyles." Sturdivant-Drew also mentions that this hair is easy to detangle while you're braiding it.

There are two types of human hair – Indian Remi and yaki. It is down to preference and the desired result for which one you choose. Remi hair is considered the best grade for quality. It's sourced from a single (human) donor which means the cuticles are aligned in one direction.