Braids

Braiding at Hector's — protective styling done properly

Braids are a protective style first and a look second. Done well they shelter your natural hair from daily manipulation and heat while you grow length. Done badly they cause traction damage at the hairline that takes months to recover.

Every braid appointment at Hector's starts with a scalp and edge assessment. We check tension tolerance previous breakage and how your hair responded to the last set before we decide on parting size braid weight and how long you should keep them in.

Feed-in braids

Feed-in braids are made by adding extension hair gradually as the braid progresses rather than attaching a full bundle at the root. The braid starts with your own hair only then extension hair is fed in a little at a time as the stylist moves down the scalp.

This is what makes feed-in braids sit flat and taper naturally at the ends. It also means almost no weight rests on the root which is why they are the gentlest option for anyone with fine edges or a history of traction damage.

Feed-in cornrows are the most requested version and they suit straight-back styles side parts and patterned designs. Typical wear is four to six weeks. We recommend a scalp oil routine between washes and we will show you how to cleanse without disturbing the pattern.

Box braids

Box braids are individual three-strand braids sectioned in square or box-shaped parts across the head. They hang free rather than being braided to the scalp which gives movement and lets you tie them up or wear them down.

Size is the main decision. Jumbo box braids are quicker to fit and lighter on the scalp but last less time. Medium box braids are the balance most clients choose. Small or micro box braids last longest but take significantly longer to fit and carry more weight so we assess your density before recommending them.

Knotless box braids start with your own hair and feed extension hair in gradually which removes the tight knot at the root. If your scalp has been sore after previous box braids knotless is the version to ask for. Box braids typically last six to eight weeks and should not be left in beyond that.

Feed-in vs box braids — which should you book?

Feed-in braids are cornrowed to the scalp in a pattern. Box braids hang free. If you want a low maintenance style that stays out of your face for a month choose feed-in. If you want length movement and versatility in how you wear it choose box braids.

Feed-in is usually the shorter appointment and the lighter option on the scalp. Box braids take longer to fit and give you more styling range. Many clients alternate between the two so the hairline gets a rest from the same tension points.

Aftercare and how long to keep braids in

Do not exceed six to eight weeks. Beyond that your natural shed hair matts into the braid and removal becomes the damaging part. Cleanse the scalp every one to two weeks with a diluted shampoo or scalp cleanser and dry thoroughly.

Oil the scalp two or three times a week and wear a satin scarf or bonnet at night to reduce friction and frizz. If a braid feels tight enough to hurt on the day of fitting tell your stylist immediately rather than waiting it out. Pain is not part of a good braid.

Take a break of at least a week between sets and use a treatment in that window. Our PHWOAR range covers scalp and length care between protective styles.

Ready to book?

Once you know which style you want, our braiding salon London page covers the booking side: appointment lengths, how to prepare your hair beforehand, how we quote, and travel to the salon.

If you are still deciding, book a consultation instead. We will give you an honest view on parting size, length and whether your hairline needs recovery time before the next set.

Braid style questions

Do braids grow your hair? They protect hair from daily manipulation which helps you retain length. They do not speed growth.

Can I wash my hair with braids in? Yes. Focus on the scalp, use a diluted cleanser and dry properly.

Are knotless braids less damaging? Generally yes because there is no tight knot at the root.

How long should I leave between sets? At least a week, with a treatment in that window.