I had an interesting question

from a visitor at the salon recently.  She wanted to get her hair done but needed to know will box braids damage caucasian hair?  She had fallen in love with the variety of colours and had picked one (rose pink) but as her hair was thin, she wanted to know the facts.

Box braids are braids that are bigger that normal and noticeably longer.  It is worn past mid-back and so can be quite heavy.  If you have thick hair it is advisable to get larger partings so you do not end up with too many.  Those with thin hair I advise to get partings big enough to hold the amount of hair added so the weight of the hair does not rip out their natural hair.  Sadly,  even in this day and age women will do anything for beauty and I continue to see them with thin sections with large amounts of hair extensions added. 

Braids will not damage caucasian hair if the hair parting can hold the amount of hair extensions added.  Braids will not damage anyone’s hair for that matter if this is kept in mind.  Obviously, if you add 8-10 packs of extension hair to your natural hair, it is going to take some time getting used to it.  For black girls, most of us were introduced to braids at a young age so we have some idea what is involved.  Caucasian ladies on the other hand, will notice the tugging, the tightness at the beginning when it being put on and the massive amount of hair that swings when you turn.  Not that most ladies mind this, that is the usually they effect they wanted!.   

You might say this is not a big deal,

but many a time I have had caucasian ladies who got all red at the roots of their hair from the pulling.  Many people, caucasian or otherwise, have a sensitive spot or spots on their head.  Usually, these are around the temples or at the front or nape but it differs for everyone.  Also, sleeping on your head the first night is hell.  Your head is so tender sometimes, your pray it goes by day two.  So, will box braids damage caucasian hair? 

• Yes, if the braider puts too much hair on the parting . 
• Yes, if the braider pulls it too tightly
• Yes, if the hair is super long and heavy and is kept on too long once it starts growing.  Otherwise, its fine..

Which lady do you know who does not want to experience extra long flowing hair at some point in their life?  Box braids are another way to get there!