How to Install Box Braids at Home

Section hair into squares, braid each section with added hair from root to tip, then seal the ends.

Box braids are an investment in time that pays dividends in versatility—do them right once rather than rushing through a sloppy install.

1. Prep your hair. Wash and detangle your hair completely. Apply a leave-in conditioner and let hair dry until slightly damp. Clean hair holds braids longer and looks better.
2. Section systematically. Start at your nape and work upward, creating square sections with a rat-tail comb. Each section should be roughly the same size as your desired braid thickness. Clip unworked sections away.
3. Add the extension hair. Take a small amount of braiding hair and fold it in half. Place the fold at your hairline and begin braiding your natural hair with the extension, keeping tension even but not tight.
4. Braid to the ends. Continue braiding down the length, maintaining consistent tension. When you reach the end of your natural hair, keep braiding the extension hair until you achieve your desired length.
5. Seal the ends. Dip the braid ends in hot water for 3-5 seconds or use a lighter to carefully seal synthetic hair. For human hair extensions, tie off with a small elastic.