Box braids vs. knotless braids: which one should you get?

This is the question I get the most. Honestly? Both are beautiful. The difference is in how they start at the root.

The real difference

Box braids start with a little knot of hair at the base. Knotless braids start with your own hair, and I feed the extension hair in a bit at a time. So knotless lays flatter, looks more natural at the part, and puts less pull on your scalp.

That’s why knotless feels lighter the first night. No tight, tender scalp. Most clients notice it right away.

Which one lasts longer?

Box braids usually hold a little longer because that knot grips. Knotless can start to look fuzzy at the root a bit sooner. With good care, both give you around 6 to 8 weeks.

Which takes longer?

Knotless takes a little more time in my chair since I’m feeding in hair braid by braid. Size matters more than anything though. Large goes fast. Small can be most of the day. I’ll give you a real time estimate when I quote you.

So which should you get?

Tender-headed, fine hair, or worried about your edges? Go knotless. Want the most wear for your money and a fuller, crisp look? Box braids are still a classic for a reason.

In LA, my box braids start at $150 (medium from $170) and knotless start at $140 for large, $180 for medium and $250 for small. Your final price gets set at your consultation, based on length and how much hair you need.