Have you admired the stunning look of jumbo box braids but hesitated to get them done at a salon due to the time and cost involved?
What if I told you you could achieve this trendy protective style right at home, even as a beginner? Jumbo box braids offer a bold and eye-catching appearance and are a low-maintenance solution for keeping natural hair healthy and stylish.
We’ll cover everything from choosing the right hair extensions and prepping your natural hair to sectioning and installing the braids for a flawless finish.
Whether you’re looking to save money, have more control over the braiding process, or enjoy a fun DIY project, this beginner-friendly tutorial will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to create stunning jumbo box braids in your home.
So, grab your tools, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s dive into this exciting journey of achieving salon-worthy results with your own two hands!
Preparing Your Hair
Properly preparing your natural hair before braiding is essential for achieving the best results and maintaining the health of your hair. Follow these key steps to ensure your hair is ready for jumbo box braids:
1. Wash and Condition
- Use a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup.
- Apply a moisturizing conditioner to soften and hydrate the hair.
- Wash hair a day or two before braiding to allow for complete drying.
2. Detangle Thoroughly
- Work in sections, starting from the ends and moving towards the roots.
- Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to remove knots and tangles gently.
- Apply a detangling spray or leave-in conditioner to ease the process and minimize breakage.
3. Air Dry or Blow Dry
- Allow hair to air dry to avoid heat damage if time permits.
- If using a blow dryer, use the cool setting.
- Ensure hair is completely dry before proceeding with braiding.
Taking the time to prep your hair properly will make a significant difference in your jumbo box braids’ appearance and feel while promoting scalp health and easier braid installation.
Materials You’ll Need
Before starting your jumbo box braid journey, gather these essential materials to ensure a smooth and successful braiding process:
1. Braiding Hair Extensions
- Choose high-quality synthetic hair that matches your natural hair color and texture.
- Look for pre-stretched braiding hair for jumbo braids to save time and effort.
2. Rat-Tail Comb
- It is essential for creating clean, precise parts and sections.
- The pointed end helps with separating and guiding hair during braiding.
3. Hair Clips or Elastic Bands
- Use these to keep your sectioned hair in place while braiding.
- Look for clips or bands that won’t snag or damage your hair.
4. Hair Mousse or Holding Product
- It helps to tame flyaways and provide grip while braiding.
- Choose a lightweight, non-flaky formula that won’t weigh down your braids.
5. Wide-Tooth Comb
- Used for detangling and smoothing hair before braiding.
- Opt for a comb with sturdy, smooth teeth to minimize breakage.
6. Scissors
- Keep a sharp pair of scissors on hand to trim excess braiding hair.
- Ensure they are specifically designated for hair use.
Step-By-Step Guide for Jumbo Box Braids
1. Sectioning Your Hair
- Begin with clean, detangled, and dry hair.
- Use your rat-tail comb to create a horizontal part across the back of your head, from ear to ear.
- Divide the top section into smaller, equal-sized square or rectangular sections.
- Secure each section with a hair clip or elastic band.
- Repeat the sectioning process on the bottom half of your hair.
2. Adding Extensions
- Take a section of hair and split it into three equal parts.
- Grab your braiding hair and divide it into three equal sections.
- Lay the braiding hair on your natural hair, aligning the ends.
- Use your fingertips to blend the braiding hair with your natural hair.
- Secure the blended section with a hair tie or clip.
3. Braiding Technique
- Begin braiding by crossing the right section over the middle section.
- Then, cross the left section over the new middle section.
- Continue this pattern, alternating between right and left sections.
- As you braid, maintain a consistent level of tension to ensure neat, uniform braids.
- Incorporate more braiding hair as needed to maintain thickness throughout the braid.
4. Sealing the Braids
Once you reach the end of your natural hair, continue braiding with just the extensions.
Braid to your desired length, then seal the end using one of these methods:
- Dip the end in hot water for a few seconds, then allow it to air dry.
- Use a small elastic band to secure the end, then trim any excess hair.
- Apply a small amount of nail glue to the end, then roll it between your fingertips.
5. Finishing Touches
- Repeat the braiding process for each section of hair.
- Once all braids are complete, use scissors to trim any uneven ends.
- Apply a lightweight hair oil or moisturizer to your scalp and braids for added hydration and shine.
You can create beautiful, professional-looking jumbo box braids at home with practice and patience.
Aftercare Tips for Jumbo Box Braids
Proper aftercare is essential to maintain the health of your scalp and the longevity of your jumbo box braids. Follow these tips to keep your braids looking fresh and your scalp feeling comfortable:
Scalp Care
- Regularly moisturize your scalp using a lightweight oil or scalp treatment.
- Apply the product directly to your scalp using an applicator bottle or fingertips.
- Gently massage the product into your scalp to stimulate blood flow and distribute the moisture.
Washing Your Braids
- Wash your braids every 2-3 weeks or as needed.
- Use a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo to cleanse your scalp and braids.
- Focus on your scalp, gently massaging the shampoo with your fingertips.
- Rinse thoroughly, ensuring all shampoo is removed to avoid buildup.
- Squeeze excess water from your braids, then allow them to air dry completely.
Nightly Protection
- Before bed, wrap your braids in a satin or silk scarf or use a satin pillowcase.
- This helps to reduce friction, minimize frizz, and retain moisture in your braids.
- Secure the scarf or bonnet loosely to avoid putting too much tension on your edges.
Styling and Maintenance
- When styling your braids, be gentle to avoid excessive pulling or tension.
- Avoid using heavy styling products that can cause buildup and weigh down your braids.
- If you notice loose or unraveling braids, carefully secure them with a small elastic band.
By following these aftercare tips, you can ensure that your jumbo box braids remain healthy, comfortable, and looking their best throughout their lifespan.
Conclusion
Creating your jumbo box braids at home is an empowering and rewarding experience. Following the step-by-step guide and aftercare tips in this article can achieve stunning results while saving time and money.
Remember to be patient with yourself as you learn and perfect your braiding technique, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and accessories to make your jumbo box braids your own.
As you continue on your natural hair journey, let your jumbo box braids remind you of your strength, versatility, and the incredible things you can accomplish when you trust in your own abilities.
So rock those jumbo box braids with pride and share your newfound knowledge with others who may be inspired to try this style.
If you found this guide helpful, please consider sharing it with your friends and family on social media. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know about your experience creating jumbo box braids at home!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Jumbo Box Braids Last?
With proper care and maintenance, jumbo box braids can last 4-8 weeks. The lifespan of your braids may vary depending on your hair type, growth rate, and aftercare routine.
It’s important to remove your braids once they look worn or feel heavy on your scalp to prevent damage and maintain the health of your natural hair.
Can I Swim with Jumbo Box Braids?
Yes, you can swim with jumbo box braids. Before swimming, wet your braids with clean water and apply a leave-in conditioner to prevent damage from chlorine or salt water.
After swimming, rinse your braids thoroughly and let them air dry completely. You may also want to wash your braids with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to remove pool or ocean residue and keep your scalp clean and healthy.
Do Jumbo Box Braids Damage Natural Hair?
When installed and cared for properly, jumbo box braids should not damage natural hair. However, if they are too tight, left in for too long, or not moisturized regularly, they can lead to breakage or hair loss.
To minimize damage, ensure your braids are not too tight, remove them after 4-8 weeks, and maintain a consistent aftercare routine that includes regular moisturizing and gentle handling.
How Many Packs of Hair Do I Need for Jumbo Box Braids?
The number of hair packs needed for jumbo box braids will depend on the size of your braids, the length you desire, and the thickness of your natural hair. On average, you may need 6-8 packs of braiding hair for medium-sized jumbo box braids.
It’s always better to have more hair than not enough, as you can save unused packs for future installations or use them to create fuller-looking braids.
