Knotless braids are box braids installed using a different technique to lessen scalp tension and create a more natural look. This braided hairstyle will begin at the root just like regular box braids but will start with your natural hair, then eventually feed in the hair extension as the braid continues.
"The pros of knotless braids include hair growth, styling flexibility, and they are weightless and pain-free," says Pearl Ransome, a professional master braider and the CEO of Pearl The Stylist Studio. "Clients have the option to style their hair for any occasion—the office, working out, on vacation.
While traditional box braids create a knot at the base of the hair and immediately weave in the synthetic braiding hair, knotless braids begin by braiding your natural hair and then gradually feeding in the synthetic hair.
For coarser textures with tighter curls, knotless braids have the potential to last longer, potentially staying intact for two to three months. For silkier and finer textures with looser curl patterns, however, they may not last as long.
"Knotless braids are a great protective style as they help to improve hair growth by protecting the hair strands," says Oludele. "It's also very easy to moisturize your scalp and keep the hair hydrated while wearing the braids."
Even though knotless braids may last longer than knot braids, it doesn't mean they can last forever. You should never keep in any protective style for more than 10 weeks. Keeping them in for too long can cause dryness, irritation, and damage to the scalp. This can negatively impact the overall health of your hair.
A protective style install is not meant to be worn for a lifetime – just enough time to give your hair a break. While you can wear some protective styles, including knotless braids, up to 8 weeks, we recommend 4-6 weeks of wear to avoid any long-term damage to your hair underneath.
A common question we get is "can I wash my hair while wearing box braids or knotless braids" and the answer is YES!
What Do They Cost? The cost of knotless box braids really depends on the area you live in and the skill level of the braider. But they will generally cost you somewhere between $150 and $600. “This depends on the size, the length, if hair is included or not,” Foster says.
'We always recommend using human hair where possible,' recommends Colleen Reid, hairstylist at The Braid Box. 'It gives a more natural finish and is less likely to cause scalp irritation, although synthetic hair is fine and a cheaper alternative for this style.
What is the longest-lasting protective style? Ghana braids and cornrows can last for as long as three months.
Since the hair extensions are not knotted at the roots, those who choose this style will feel very little tension at the scalp. The lack of knots also means there is none of the bulkiness that may appear with box braids. And the newer style leaves the braids flatter. Knotless braids feel lighter, too.
According to Gemma, gradually adding hair to the braid means “knotless braids are an overall safer option, because the method creates less tension and pulling on the roots, so there's less chance of traction alopecia and follicle damage.”
They're more expensive. Knotless box braids take longer than traditional box braids making them more expensive.
Dr. Williams recommends a thorough cleanse and deep condition before braiding to help your style do what you're hoping for: protect and promote hair growth. "To preserve the health of the hair, make sure you thoroughly cleanse and deep condition the hair before installing the braids," she says.
#1: No Hair Loss and Breakage
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.
People can take a swim and enjoy the pool or beach, whatever hairstyle they have. However, swimming with box braids comes with concerns. Some hairstyles become dry and frizzy when getting wet for a long time. Box braids are one of those hairstyles that lose their shape and beauty due to dryness and frizziness.
Knotless braids are a weightless, protective hairstyle that hairstylists often recommend for people with fine, thin, or thinning hair.