Box braids and crochet braids are amazing and very versatile hairstyles, and each has its own characteristics that anyone interested should know. But many get confused because they don’t know the differences between box braids and crochet braids.
However, when crochet braids are made with ready-made braids, the two styles can look very similar, some people can’t even tell the difference. But there are many differences, actually.
So, let’s analyze these two basic afro hairstyles and get a clear idea about the differences between box braids and crochet braids.
Box braids
When Installing box braidsAll the hair was divided into squares, (or triangles or rhombuses) where each braid would start and hang.
For traditional box braids, a piece of synthetic hair will be wrapped around the root to secure the base, and then you’ll begin the classic 3-strand braiding technique along with the extension.
To Box braids without knotsThere will be no hair wrapped around the root, and they are less tense and usually painless.
The size of the boxes (number of braids), the amount of hair extensions, the length and the colors vary according to preferences, and together with the geographical location and the level of the hairstylist, they define the price and the working time.
crocheted braids
during installation crocheted braidsThe first step is dedicated execution cornrows Pattern on the natural hair (you can add some synthetic hair if necessary), where there will be no braids coming off the scalp.
Each of the braids that do not reach the scalp will be inserted together with the others connected to the scalp with a crochet hook.
The second step will be adding the desired hair. It could be anything. Any type of new hair you want (curls, straight hair, coils, waves, ready braids or kinks or twists and turnsor anything else) will be caught by the needle on these braids and secured with one or two knots.
The difference between box braids and crochet braids
First of all, there are two completely different techniques.
While box braids are braids that start separately from those boxes made on the scalp (or other shapes), crochet braids are braids that support the hair attached to it like a custom wig made piece by piece directly on the head. with the crochet hook.
Box braids look like many braids coming out of the head, while crochet braids can be any type of hair that connects to the braids that get married (these are the braids that shouldn’t be visible).
Working time, price and weight are usually higher for box braids, but the size of the braids and other factors also affect these.
The process of removing them is also different, and the crocheted braids are much easier to untie the braid. However, you also need to take your time combing and moisturizing your hair well.
Below is an easy-to-read box braids vs. crochet braids comparison chart to summarize any key differences.
| Box braids | crocheted braids |
|---|---|
| Individual braids “come from the head”. | Hair is attached to a braided support on the head. |
| You can choose the size, colors and amount of braids. | You can choose any type of natural looking, mixed or pre-styled hair. |
| You can design them in many different ways. | You can style it more or less, and you can (may need to) trim it and cut it off (if not pre-braided/twisted) |
| Usually takes longer to install | Usually takes less time to install |
| usually more expensive | Usually less expensive |
| usually lasts longer (8 weeks) | usually lasts less (6 weeks) |
| Easier to wash | Not much access to laundry |
| Usually quite heavy | usually not heavy |
| Can damage hair if they are over-tightened. | Can also damage hair if they are too tight |
| Takes a long time to take off | Easy to download |
similarities
Both are long-term protective styles, installed together with synthetic hair. However, both can be harmful when overstretched or kept for too long.
If the hair attached to the crochet braid pattern is pre-braided, the crochet braids will look very much like box braids and the hairstyle will be called crochet box braids.
Crocheted box braids
Crocheted box braids They are a faster and cheaper way to get box braids.
In this case, the color of the braids will remain the same, since the braids will not merge with the natural hair.
They will also last a little less, they will be cheaper and the work time will be faster, but you will have less access to wash them and less flexibility in design.
This technique is often mixed, as the head is usually braided separately, like regular box braids, and only the rest of the head is knitted. This gives more styling flexibility.
In my opinion, if you like these styles and want to choose one, try both. You have a whole life, make it full of beautiful experiences!
Common questions
It depends on everyone’s preferences. Both styles are amazing and have their own pros and cons.
both or neither. First, you only need to tighten them enough, no more. For box braids, you can choose braids without knots that are less tense and crocheted braids, make sure that the bunting pattern is not too tight because when the hair is added, it will be more tense.
Also, take good care of your hair while wearing these styles and when taking them down.
Yes, you can wash both types of braids.
related topics
What is the difference? – HairstyleCamp
5 simple steps to wrap your hair at night
