Okay, so you’ve read the truth about protective styles and hair loss and are unsure if braids are worth the risk. You love the style but hate the potential it has to damage your hair and scalp. If you’ve ruled out box braids completely, we’ve got the perfect alternative: knotless box braids.

    Chances are, you’ve seen these braids on your social feed before—countless celebrities from Beyoncé to Zoe Kravitz have all been spotted rocking these trendy braids, and here are four very compelling reasons you should too.

By Nina King

What are Knotless Box Braids?

Knotless box braids have truly changed the game for this protective style. It’s no secret that standard box braids can cause tension on the scalp due to the immediate addition of hair extensions. This grasping and tugging on your natural hair can easily snatch your edges and even lead to traction alopecia. Fortunately, knotless box braids do the exact opposite. To achieve this look, your stylist will start by first braiding your natural hair from the scalp and then slowly add more hair extensions as the braid continues. The slower addition of hair may cost you some extra time in the salon chair, but keep reading to see why it’s so worth it.

• 

• 

• 

#1: No Hair Loss and Breakage

Your hair follicles will love your transition to knotless box braids. Unlike standard box braids which place extra tension on your natural hair, knotless box braids offer you this popular style without the worry of hair damage. Since the knotless extensions are being “fed” into your braids, the tension is significantly lower on your natural hair.  Not only will your hair and scalp thank you, when it’s time to take out your braids, you shouldn’t have to worry about an excessive amount of shedding and breakage.

#2: Less Weight on Scalp

Since knotless box braids begin with the braiding of your natural hair, you won’t ever have to feel the weight of extensions on your scalp. Not only can this weight cause some discomfort, but it can also lead to hair loss if they remain in your hair too long. Additionally, without the extra weight of the braid “knot,” you’ll have so much more movement and styling opportunities for your new knotless braids.

• 

• 

• 

#3: Painless

If you’ve ever had braids before, you know the uncomfortable feeling of salon-fresh braids. While your hair is looking its best, it takes a few days (and Advils) for the braids to loosen up. With knotless box braid, this problem is completely eliminated. Without the constant tugging and tightening of the hair extensions on your scalp, the knotless technique is known for being painless. If you have a sensitive scalp or just don’t want to deal with the discomfort of braids, knotless box braids are the perfect style for you. In this case, beauty doesn’t have to equal pain.

#4: Instant Styling

Another added bonus of knotless box braids is their ability to be styled immediately after you’ve left the salon. While it can take a few days of wearing regular box braids to get your hair acclimated to the style, knotless box braids are ready to be styled whenever you are. From high ponytails to top knots, these box braids will allow you to do it all, as soon as you leave the chair.

Looking for a braider you can trust? Head over to Swivel to search for top braiders in your area now!