Are you looking for a new look? Work on your hair, and while you’re at it, consider having box braids instead of a conventional hairstyle. But what is it exactly?
LoveToKnow defines box braids as “individual plaits that are usually divided [into] small squared off parts or boxes.” They can be done on any hair length, but there are cases when ladies choose to add synthetic hair to make the braid longer and to increase the hair’s fullness and thickness.
Apparently, a box braided hair is not a new hairstyle. In fact, you see famous celebrities having this chic and cool look, like Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys, and Beyoncé Knowles. Two of the best things about these braids is that they are not attached or fastened to the scalp, and they can be made into various styles. The box braiding process usually takes a lot of time to complete, but the wait is all worth it because the finish look is definitely beautiful.
Average Cost of Box Braids
Box braids are typically salon services. With that said, how much do box braids cost? The prices actually depend on the salon or the hairstylist, but there are other factors that affect the costs. On average, however, the box braids prices can range from $75 to as much as $455, depending on the following circumstances:
– the length of the hair
– the size of the braid
– the style of the braid
– the age of the customer
This type of service is done by hands, that’s why it can take several hours to finish. If you choose small braids, it can take, at least, seven hours to complete. More hours is consumed if your hair is very long, so don’t wonder why the price is relatively high. It usually costs around $200 to $455.
Medium box braids can range from $160 to $350 and can be completed within three to four hours. Meanwhile, the big size braids can only consume two to three hours and can cost around $120 to $250. If for instance, you want to have a complex box braids style, it may take longer hours to finish and a much higher price to pay.
Pricing for Young Kids and Teens
Aside from the sizes, the box braids prices significantly vary on the customer’s age. The figures presented above are the prices for adult customers. The cost of box braids for kids and teenagers is different.
Depending on the length of the hair and the size of the braids, the price for kids ages 2 to 12 ranges from $70 to $255. For teens ages 13 to 18, the cost can run from $180 to $310.
Additional Costs
Before the box braiding begins, your hair must be properly prepared first. It should be shampooed, conditioned deeply, and/or treated with hot oil. This can cost between $10 and $20. For hair extensions, the price starts at $15 for adults and $7 for kids and teens. The cost is higher for natural extensions.
If you wish to take down the box braids, you will spend around $60 to $70 for small and medium-sized braids. For big box braids, it will only be $45 to $55.