Medium Knotless Box Braids: The Complete Hair-Care Guide | Makeup.com by L'Oréal (2024)

Is there anything not to love about knotless box braids? They’re classic, eye-catching, low maintenance and the perfect protective style for giving our strands a breather from hot tools, styling and tension headaches from other uncomfortable styles.


Medium knotless box braids may look like traditional box braids from afar, but the omission of the knot at the root just makes these showstopping plaits look even more effortless and helps minimize tension on your scalp. Below, we turned to hair experts to get the scoop on medium knotless box braids, including why this size braid is a popular choice and how to make your knotless braids look flawless for longer.

What's the Difference Between Knotless and Regular Box Braids?

One common complaint when it comes to protective hairstyles, especially braids and weaves, is the tension these styles can create on the scalp. Luckily, knotless braids can help alleviate that issue. “Knotless braids do not require a knot at the base and provide a beautiful finish without tugging and pulling at the scalp,” explains Wilson. If you notice your scalp is extra sensitive, you’re experiencing shedding at your edges or you frequently experience tension headaches from too-tight installs, then knotless braids may be the way to go for you.

What Makes Medium Knotless Braids Different From Other Knotless Braids?

There are a variety of sizes and lengths when it comes to knotless braids. There are micro, small, medium, large and jumbo knotless braids. These braids aren’t small, but they’re not large either. In most cases, you can expect a medium-sized knotless box braid to have the same width of a pencil or pen.

Celebrity hairstylist T. Cooper says this size of knotless braid is best for those who have two inches of hair or longer. “If your hair is too short, the medium style may not be best because it will be harder for the braider to grip and the style may not last as long.”

If you’re looking to install knotless braids on a TWA, Cooper suggests opting for the small or micro-sized braids to ensure the style lasts a bit longer.

How Long Does It Take to Install Medium Knotless Box Braids?

There are a handful of variables to consider when carving out the time it takes to install medium knotless braids. The good news is choosing the medium size will require a lot less time than the micro and small knotless braids. According to Cooper, medium knotless braids generally take about three to five hours to install, but it really depends on the speed of the braider and the length of the braids. “The shorter the braid, the less time it will take — and the longer the braid, the more time it will take.” The length of time will also vary on the thickness of your natural hair and the bundles you’re using, adds Tonya Thompson, hairstylist and co-owner of DreamGirls hair-care brand and salon.

Medium Knotless Box Braids: The Complete Hair-Care Guide   | Makeup.com by L'Oréal (2024)

FAQs

How long do medium knotless braids last? ›

How Long Do Medium Knotless Box Braids Last? “Medium knotless box braids can last anywhere from six to eight weeks, depending on how well they have been cared for,” says Wilson. To learn how to properly care for and mention your knotless braids, keep reading.

What is the difference between medium box braids and medium knotless? ›

While box braids and knotless braids are similar, knotless braids use a different feed-in technique that requires less tension and is gentler on the scalp. The result is lightweight, pain-free braids with all the style and versatility of the more traditional box braids.

Are knotless box braids bad for your hair? ›

Do knotless braids damage your hair? Like any protective braid style, if not properly installed and cared for, there are risks of damage to the hair. However, for knotless braids, those risks are far less. That's due to the preparation of the braid, which begins with your own hair rather than added hair.

Why do knotless braids not last? ›

Knotless braids tend to get frizzier a lot faster than regular braids as they expose more natural hair at the root. So, if you're looking for a protective style that can last longer than two months, regular box braids are a better option.

How to keep knotless braids fresh? ›

Along with keeping your hair moisturized with a hair serum, sleeping in a bonnet or scarf will also help your hair stay fresh, per Nesbit's advice. When it comes to taking care of your hair, Nesbit wants you to “remember [that] your hair is still intertwined with the braids.”

Why are my knotless braids heavy? ›

"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.

What are goddess braids? ›

Goddess braids (a.k.a. boho braids) are box braids with curly strands added to hair's mids or ends, resulting in an undone, bohemian style.

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).

Are knotless braids worth it? ›

There are lots of benefits to wearing knotless braids; here are just some of them: -They can help you grow out your real hairline since they allow your scalp to breathe and reduce breakage from tension caused by traditional styling methods like weaving or tight ponytails.

How long can you keep medium box braids in? ›

You may have seen or heard of some people keeping their box braids in for as long as 12 or even 16 weeks but according to All Things Hair resident hairstylist, Elena Diaz, you should not keep them in for that long. “Box braids can last from 4 to 6 weeks.

Can knotless braids last 8 weeks? ›

Typically, knotless braids can be worn for about four to eight weeks, depending on how well they are cared for and the rate of hair growth. This is primarily due to their method of installation and the reduced tension they exert on the hair.

Are knotless braids durable? ›

Depending on how the hair is installed knotless box braids can last approximately 4- 6 weeks. Some people find they only last 4 weeks and others have stretched their wear all the way to 8 weeks.

Which braid style lasts the longest? ›

Box braids, characterized by their distinctive square-shaped sections, are known for their longevity. With proper care and maintenance, box braids can last anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks.

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