Published By Brooke
Updated 01-1-2023
Wearing knotless box braids is like winning a hairstyles lottery: low maintenance, gorgeous goddess look, hair protection, and 0 styling – and all these benefits last for two to three months.
Indeed, thanks to the lightweight, pain-free, and tension-free nature of knotless braids, they can stay with you for an impressively long time without causing any sort of discomfort or looking scruffy.
In this article, you’ll find a detailed overview of the knotless braid hairstyle, including the questions of how to make knotless braids last longer, how to get them done, how much will this style cost, and how long will it take to get it.
All the pitfalls and issues, as well as a great diverse gallery of the most win-win knotless braid styles for inspiration. You’ll find all of it below:
What are Knotless Box Braids?
@knotlessbraidslondon
Knotless braids are a kind of box braids, which don’t cause tension or pain on the scalp thanks to a different technique to install them.
Knotless braided styles begin with natural hair, and the extensions are added in along the length of the braid (while in usual box braids, the extensions are knotted tightly at the roots.)
Thus, with knotless braids, the hair is more protected, and it looks more natural too. Ideal for women looking to achieve hair growth instead of damage.
Wearing knotless box braids is like winning a hairstyles lottery: low maintenance, gorgeous goddess look, hair protection, and 0 styling - and all these benefits last for two to three months.Indeed, thanks to the lightweight, pain-free, and tension-free nature of knotless braids, they can stay with you for an impressively long time without causing any sort of discomfort or looking scruffy.In this article, you’ll find a detailed overview of the knotless braid hairstyle, including the questions of how to make knotless braids last longer, how to get them done, how much will this style cost, and how long will it take to get it.All the pitfalls and issues, as well as a great diverse gallery of the most win-win knotless braid styles for inspiration. You’ll find all of it below:
@knotlessbraidslondonKnotless braids are a kind of box braids, which don’t cause tension or pain on the scalp thanks to a different technique to install them.
Knotless braided styles begin with natural hair, and the extensions are added in along the length of the braid (while in usual box braids, the extensions are knotted tightly at the roots.)Thus, with knotless braids, the hair is more protected, and it looks more natural too. Ideal for women looking to achieve hair growth instead of damage.
@_mundo_box_braids
@olyvettehairDespite all the benefits, there are some downsides too:
@thehairkultureLong braids protect your hair, and you should do your best to protect your knotless braids and make them last longer as well. So, here are some pieces of advice on how to take care after the braided styles:
@iamcarinedantasNow, when you’ve learned the most essential information about the knotless box braids style, look through these gorgeous protective styles ideas to inspire your next visit to your hairstylist:
@_mundo_box_braidsGo for perfect bohemian knotless braids with beads, and threads, and a cornrow crown. Besides causing less tension at the roots and comfort (the front strands are swept away from the face so that they don’t fall on the eyes.) With a hairstyle like this, you’ll get the perfect bohemian look and feel.
@_ayaatelie_Goddess style knotless braids typically go along with curly strands braided into the hair. Those curls dilute the box braids, creating a rather romantic and playful image.To achieve this look, besides the extensions for braids, you’ll need 2 packs of the freetress waterwave hair. After you get the desired braids done, take small sections of the freetress wavy hair and make small knots on the braids with it.Repeat each knot 2-3 times, apply some nail glue on it, and keep wrapping until it is held firmly.
@olyvettehairAfter the knotless braid installation, your natural hair starts a new life. Well-protected from breakage and dehydration, it’s chilling out no matter how long your new braids are.
@olyvettehairSmaller braids look so natural and nice even if they’re not secured tightly on your hair. A small braid requires a small knot, and eventually more time to make it.But, the style itself is more durable than the one with bigger knotless braids. Another benefit is that smaller braids are easier to fix into a half up, a bun, a ponytail, or any other updo.
@caitlynmilanIf you rock a protective style, it doesn’t mean it’s gonna look boring. With hair extensions, you’re free to choose any color you can come up with: here, you don’t have to bleach your hair and worry about the final shade.
@nigerianbraidsgang_The golden-brown shade is often wrongly mistreated as a basic color, however, it can look dramatic and even brighter than blonde knotless braids in combination with a dark skin tone. The gelled tiny curls along the hairline will also add some charm to this hairstyle.
@samariathehairstylistOh, wow! This platinum blonde bob is stuffed with braids, curly ends, and disconnected curly locks. If you’re looking for a note of rebellion to add up to your hairdo, this one can be a really cool option since you can experiment with the color and the length without actually bleaching or cutting your hair.
@negarlsA half up half down hairstyle can’t but look eccentric and eye-catching if you work with box braids. Due to the volume, pulling the braids up always looks like making a statement. Also, you can experiment with the styles of braids: spiral braids, for example, work magic for half-ups as well.
@braidedbyjoiAlthough medium knotless braids are not so popular as longer braided styles, they still are much more practical, low-maintenance, easy to wash, easy to blow dry. Girls style knotless braids of this length with various beads to add up to the uniqueness of the look.
@jadeandjalaIf you wanna stand out with your braids, go for a small change and ask your hairstylist to style knotless braids for you, dividing the sections of hair at the scalp into triangles.Triangle braids look more harmonious and sophisticated than ordinary square-checked braids, but they require more effort, patience, and precision too.
@xo_rawwmyBlack knotless braids go well with purple highlights, especially if the colors are blended in an ombre technique. This style is an awesome idea for those girls, who are not ready for a dramatic color change yet but want to give it a try.
@jadeandjalaLarge knotless braids (aka jumbo braids) are another trend that is getting more and more viral. On one hand, here you save the time for styling.But, on the other hand, the durability of such a hairstyle is shorter than of those with smaller braids. But who cares if these luscious black braids look so majestic!
@braidsbymyahOmbre hair is a win-win option, no matter if your hair is braided or not. Ombre color gradation looks best when it combines darker roots and contrasting lighter or brighter ends. But there is nothing more powerful than a combo of iconic blonde, outspoken dark, and tanned skin.
@nathytatuadaThe longer the knotless braids, the more memorable and alluring they are. Another benefit of long braids is that you can add as much color as you can imagine - and it will never look “too much”.
@pearlthestylist_Oh… This one is an upcoming trend, for sure - a very authentic and creative solution for girls, who are brave enough to be a trendsetter. Replace the beads with colored rubber bands when styling your braids to stand out for real.
@caitlynmilanOn a bad hair day, throw your knotless braids in an updo... But wait. There is no such thing as a bad hair day when you style knotless braids!
Meanwhile, a bun hairdo can come in handy on a day when you’re so busy and don’t want the hair getting in your way. Or just when you’re up to changing your style a bit.
@ars.directoryShort hair, knotless braids, and no extensions are a rather rare combination nowadays. But who cares, girl, if it’s exactly what your soul desires? Go for it and simplify that easy routine you used to have with your short hair.
@styled_by_estherandcoCurly ends on top of perfectly smooth knotless braids are a current trend. This tendency is especially easy to copy for women with naturally curly Afro hair. However, there is a solution for girls with straight hair too: use curly extensions and enjoy your new hairdo!
@jae.braidedGo for Jumbo knotless braids if you’d better have fewer braids on your head. Add a bead or several beads at the end of each jumbo braid to diversify that casual braided look.
@liberdadecrespaTwist braids are so much fun! Young girls are especially prone to rocking them as a part of their unforgettable image, paired with cool hair accessories, bright makeup, and a gorgeous dress, long silky twists are the way to go.
@toddlerstanglesThere are several ways to give some fun to a knotless braids haircut for kids. Beads are the first one: combine different colors and sizes, stay creative.Secondly, you’ll never go wrong with a couple of cute space buns at the top of the head. Remember that you can adjust every updo to your kid’s braided hair.
@braidsbyracquelKnotless butterfly braids are so authentic. If wearing this, be prepared to receive lots of compliments and questions concerning your hair style.
@mindbodyspirit_melaninIconic. Gorgeous. Bold. Sexy. Pop smoke knotless braids can slightly mess around with the cornrows and hair rings. So flattering for black girls, this hairstyle is always on the edge, and always grabs all the attention.
@kamarajustineUnlike usual box braids, where a knot is first formed, knotless box braids are started using your own hair, and then the extensions are gradually fed in as you move down the braid.With knotless braids, the procedure takes more time, but it’s more pleasurable and pain-free than with box braids.
@thehairkultureUsually, knotless box braids take about 5-6 hours depending on the size and length. Here is a step-by-step guide:
What are Knotless Box Braids?
@knotlessbraidslondonKnotless braids are a kind of box braids, which don’t cause tension or pain on the scalp thanks to a different technique to install them.
Knotless braided styles begin with natural hair, and the extensions are added in along the length of the braid (while in usual box braids, the extensions are knotted tightly at the roots.)Thus, with knotless braids, the hair is more protected, and it looks more natural too. Ideal for women looking to achieve hair growth instead of damage.Knotless Box Braids: Pros
@_mundo_box_braids- Low-maintenance: Washing and blow-drying are the only rituals this style requires (however, you can also use your favorite hair oil occasionally to provide nutrition to the locks)
- Less tension: Unlike box braids, knotless braids don’t cause tension to the hairline or scalp.
- No pain: No knots that tightly secure the extensions at the roots - no pain.
- Natural look: Due to the fact the extensions are braided in along the hair length.
- Lightweight: The hair isn’t bulky and flows naturally.
- Long-lasting: You can wear them longer than ordinary box braids, up to 3 months.
Knotless Box Braids: Cons
@olyvettehairDespite all the benefits, there are some downsides too:- Longer installation time: Compared to usual box braids, it will surely take more time to create knotless braids.
- Scalpy look: Because of the fact the extensions are not knotted in tightly at the scalp.
- Higher price: Again, comparing with traditional box braids.
- Heart-breaking: With such a unique hair style, you’re guaranteed to break a couple of hearts (haha just kidding, it’s definitely an upside)
How Do You Care for Knotless Box Braids?
@thehairkultureLong braids protect your hair, and you should do your best to protect your knotless braids and make them last longer as well. So, here are some pieces of advice on how to take care after the braided styles:- Wrap your braids in a silk scarf when you go to bed.
- Continue your regular natural hair care (moisturizing, nutritious oils and creams).
- Use an edge control product and an anti-frizz leave-in conditioner spray.
- To avoid scalp itching, you might need an anti-itch oil.
- Avoid hair products build-up and don’t use too much product on braids (a dry shampoo can come in handy for this purpose).
The Best Knotless Box Braids Ideas
@iamcarinedantasNow, when you’ve learned the most essential information about the knotless box braids style, look through these gorgeous protective styles ideas to inspire your next visit to your hairstylist:Bohemian Knotless Braids
@_mundo_box_braidsGo for perfect bohemian knotless braids with beads, and threads, and a cornrow crown. Besides causing less tension at the roots and comfort (the front strands are swept away from the face so that they don’t fall on the eyes.) With a hairstyle like this, you’ll get the perfect bohemian look and feel.Knotless Goddess Box Braids
@_ayaatelie_Goddess style knotless braids typically go along with curly strands braided into the hair. Those curls dilute the box braids, creating a rather romantic and playful image.To achieve this look, besides the extensions for braids, you’ll need 2 packs of the freetress waterwave hair. After you get the desired braids done, take small sections of the freetress wavy hair and make small knots on the braids with it.Repeat each knot 2-3 times, apply some nail glue on it, and keep wrapping until it is held firmly.Waist Length Knotless Box Braids
@olyvettehairAfter the knotless braid installation, your natural hair starts a new life. Well-protected from breakage and dehydration, it’s chilling out no matter how long your new braids are.Extra Small Knotless Braids
@olyvettehairSmaller braids look so natural and nice even if they’re not secured tightly on your hair. A small braid requires a small knot, and eventually more time to make it.But, the style itself is more durable than the one with bigger knotless braids. Another benefit is that smaller braids are easier to fix into a half up, a bun, a ponytail, or any other updo.Red Knotless Braids
@caitlynmilanIf you rock a protective style, it doesn’t mean it’s gonna look boring. With hair extensions, you’re free to choose any color you can come up with: here, you don’t have to bleach your hair and worry about the final shade.Brown Knotless Braids
@nigerianbraidsgang_The golden-brown shade is often wrongly mistreated as a basic color, however, it can look dramatic and even brighter than blonde knotless braids in combination with a dark skin tone. The gelled tiny curls along the hairline will also add some charm to this hairstyle.Platinum Blonde Bob Knotless Braids
@samariathehairstylistOh, wow! This platinum blonde bob is stuffed with braids, curly ends, and disconnected curly locks. If you’re looking for a note of rebellion to add up to your hairdo, this one can be a really cool option since you can experiment with the color and the length without actually bleaching or cutting your hair.Half Up Half Down Knotless Braids
@negarlsA half up half down hairstyle can’t but look eccentric and eye-catching if you work with box braids. Due to the volume, pulling the braids up always looks like making a statement. Also, you can experiment with the styles of braids: spiral braids, for example, work magic for half-ups as well.Medium Knotless Braids With Beads
@braidedbyjoiAlthough medium knotless braids are not so popular as longer braided styles, they still are much more practical, low-maintenance, easy to wash, easy to blow dry. Girls style knotless braids of this length with various beads to add up to the uniqueness of the look.Triangle Knotless Braids
@jadeandjalaIf you wanna stand out with your braids, go for a small change and ask your hairstylist to style knotless braids for you, dividing the sections of hair at the scalp into triangles.Triangle braids look more harmonious and sophisticated than ordinary square-checked braids, but they require more effort, patience, and precision too.Knotless Braids with Purple Highlights
@xo_rawwmyBlack knotless braids go well with purple highlights, especially if the colors are blended in an ombre technique. This style is an awesome idea for those girls, who are not ready for a dramatic color change yet but want to give it a try.Large Knotless Braids
@jadeandjalaLarge knotless braids (aka jumbo braids) are another trend that is getting more and more viral. On one hand, here you save the time for styling.But, on the other hand, the durability of such a hairstyle is shorter than of those with smaller braids. But who cares if these luscious black braids look so majestic!Ombre Knotless Braids
@braidsbymyahOmbre hair is a win-win option, no matter if your hair is braided or not. Ombre color gradation looks best when it combines darker roots and contrasting lighter or brighter ends. But there is nothing more powerful than a combo of iconic blonde, outspoken dark, and tanned skin.Long Knotless Braids
@nathytatuadaThe longer the knotless braids, the more memorable and alluring they are. Another benefit of long braids is that you can add as much color as you can imagine - and it will never look “too much”.Knotless Braids With Colorful Bands
@pearlthestylist_Oh… This one is an upcoming trend, for sure - a very authentic and creative solution for girls, who are brave enough to be a trendsetter. Replace the beads with colored rubber bands when styling your braids to stand out for real.Knotless Braids in a Bun
@caitlynmilanOn a bad hair day, throw your knotless braids in an updo... But wait. There is no such thing as a bad hair day when you style knotless braids!
Meanwhile, a bun hairdo can come in handy on a day when you’re so busy and don’t want the hair getting in your way. Or just when you’re up to changing your style a bit.Short Knotless Braids
@ars.directoryShort hair, knotless braids, and no extensions are a rather rare combination nowadays. But who cares, girl, if it’s exactly what your soul desires? Go for it and simplify that easy routine you used to have with your short hair.Knotless Braids with Curly Ends
@styled_by_estherandcoCurly ends on top of perfectly smooth knotless braids are a current trend. This tendency is especially easy to copy for women with naturally curly Afro hair. However, there is a solution for girls with straight hair too: use curly extensions and enjoy your new hairdo!Jumbo Knotless Braids with Beads
@jae.braidedGo for Jumbo knotless braids if you’d better have fewer braids on your head. Add a bead or several beads at the end of each jumbo braid to diversify that casual braided look.Twist Knotless Braids
@liberdadecrespaTwist braids are so much fun! Young girls are especially prone to rocking them as a part of their unforgettable image, paired with cool hair accessories, bright makeup, and a gorgeous dress, long silky twists are the way to go.Kids Knotless Braids
@toddlerstanglesThere are several ways to give some fun to a knotless braids haircut for kids. Beads are the first one: combine different colors and sizes, stay creative.Secondly, you’ll never go wrong with a couple of cute space buns at the top of the head. Remember that you can adjust every updo to your kid’s braided hair.Butterfly Knotless Braids
@braidsbyracquelKnotless butterfly braids are so authentic. If wearing this, be prepared to receive lots of compliments and questions concerning your hair style.Pop Smoke Knotless Braids
@mindbodyspirit_melaninIconic. Gorgeous. Bold. Sexy. Pop smoke knotless braids can slightly mess around with the cornrows and hair rings. So flattering for black girls, this hairstyle is always on the edge, and always grabs all the attention.Frequently Asked Questions
Do knotless braids damage your hair?
Definitely not.Knotless box braids don’t place extra tension on the scalp and hairline (like the standard box braids do) - the knotless extensions are “fed” into the braids and the tension is minimal. Thus, there is no point worrying about hair damage.However, if the knotless braid installation is done not properly, there are risks of hair damage. Irritation, itching, and redness on the skin are highly unlikely too since the kanekalon doesn’t have direct contact with the scalp.How long do knotless braids last?
The time depends on the length and size of the braids, type of braiding, natural hair texture, and how you take care of the hairstyle.On average, knotless braids can last for two to three months, but this period can differ.- Size: The larger the braids are, the less they last. So, if you’re looking for a long-lasting hairstyle, go for smaller braids.
- Hair texture: Braided hairstyles last longer on coarse, curly hair types. The silkier and straighter the locks naturally are, the higher the risk of the hair separating from the synthetic braiding hair is.
What is the point of knotless braids?
The main point is that knotless braids are a win-win choice with numerous benefits.They don’t harm natural hair and let it grow, they are pain-free and tension-free, lightweight, low-maintenance, and feature incredible styling flexibility with options for any occasion - from office to workout or even a glamorous party. Also, this type of braids is a guarantee of healthy scalp and hair.What's the Difference Between Knotless Braids and Box Braids?
@kamarajustineUnlike usual box braids, where a knot is first formed, knotless box braids are started using your own hair, and then the extensions are gradually fed in as you move down the braid.With knotless braids, the procedure takes more time, but it’s more pleasurable and pain-free than with box braids.Are knotless braids better?
It depends on your priorities. If safety and minimum unpleasant feelings are the priority for you, knotless braids will work better for you. However, if you wanna get the hairstyle faster and not have too much “bold skin” at the roots, ordinary box braids are the way to go.How do you make knotless braids last longer?
The basics are: to wear a silk scarf at night, wash the hair delicately, with minimum hair products, keep the hair moisturized. However, there are some more life hacks on how to refresh your knotless box braids and make them look like new again:- Always use a leave-in conditioner
- If retwisting is needed, use a shine jam. But don’t use too much gel (not to glue up the hair)
- Use edge control and some light mousse
- Visit your hairstylist if you can’t refresh your braids by yourself to give your style a longer life
How much do knotless box braids cost?
Since knotless box braids take longer than simple box braids, they are more expensive as well. The price depends on the length, and on average, it ranges from $250 to $600.How to style knotless braids?
@thehairkultureUsually, knotless box braids take about 5-6 hours depending on the size and length. Here is a step-by-step guide:- Wash and condition the hair.
- Straighten and stretch the hair so that it’s effortlessly separated.
- Section the strands into triangle or square parts with a rattail comb.
- Sleek each section from the roots to the ends with a shine n jam.
- Start braiding the strand, after 1-2 times, start feeding in the extensions in small-sized amounts.
- Apply the shine n jam gel on top of each braid.