What is a box braid hairstyle?

Box braids form a hairstyle that involves braiding individual plaits made from squared-off sections of hair. The hair can be braided in a variety of sizes and lengths. Once in place, box braids can be styled similarly to loose hair.

Box braids are created by dividing the hair into individual boxes at the scalp. Each section of hair is then split into four parts and plaited using an over-under braiding method. Hair extensions can be used as a base for each braid to achieve more volume. The braids are secured at the ends and usually treated with an oil sheen product to keep them in place.