Heatless hairstyles, like boho knotless braids, are a must for me during summer. We've been stuck in continual heat waves in Georgia, so the last thing my natural hair needs is to feel dehydrated.
Braids have always been my go-to hairstyle anyway, but this boho style has summer written all over it. Whenever I see anyone with it, they look like they're on a permanent vacation — and I love that! But, some people may not know what boho knotless braids are or how to care for them.
I spoke with The Doux's CEO and Co-Founder Maya Smith as well as Marquita Lynch, Celebrity Hairstylist at 4U by Tia, to break down every question you've ever had about boho knotless braids.
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Boho knotless braids are all over TikTok, but you may still be wondering what this style actually means.
"Boho knotless braids are a trendy, versatile hairstyle that combines classic knotless braids with curly or wavy hair extensions that give the braids a relaxed, free-spirited appearance. The style is named for its full and flowy bohemian aesthetic," Marquita Lynch explains.
Maya smith adds, "Unlike traditional box braids, knotless braids start with your natural hair and gradually incorporate additional hair."
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I've gotten styles that only take two hours, but I always advise people to be prepared to sit for several hours. Every stylist has their own technique, and there are plenty of other factors that can determine how long it'll take to install your braids.
"The installation time for boho knotless braids can vary depending on the desired length and thickness, as well as the skill level of the braider. Generally, it is not a quick style and can take anywhere between 5 to 10 hours – combining the braided hair with the wavy/curly pieces can be a meticulous process," says Lynch.
Jasmine Williams
I decided to get knotless braids for the first time last winter and immediately fell in love with them! It was a process getting them installed, but I decided to trust it. Needless to say, knotless braids have been one of my go-to styles when I'm too busy to style my natural hair daily!
And since I loved the style so much, I wanted to figure out how to achieve the look at home! I watched a few YouTube videos so I could install my own braids and realized just how tedious this hairstyle is. My respect for hairstylists has tripled because it took me 2.5 days to add in the synthetic and wavy hair.
While I don't mind doing this hairstyle again, I think I'll go to a skilled professional to give my neck and shoulders a break!
Jasmine Williams
Whether you're going to install your own braids or go to a salon, it's important to know what kind of hair is used for boho knotless braids.
Lynch says, "Stylists typically use synthetic braiding hair for the main braids and add curly or wavy human hair or high-quality synthetic hair for the boho effect."
She and Smith agree that using human hair can make this style look more natural and it'll also last a little longer.
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As cute as this style is, it's not meant to be worn indefinitely. Lynch says, "Boho knotless braids can be worn for 4 to 6 weeks with proper care and are a go-to when you need a style that will last. Her example of how long this style can last is Serena from Love Island. "She's kept her's [boho knotless braids] for nearly 2 months on screen," she said.
That being said, Smith wants you to be aware that the style won't maintain it's freshness by itself. "Keep in mind that as your natural hair grows, the braids may start to loosen, so timely maintenance is essential to keep them looking fresh."
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This question depends on who you ask. It could be considered high-maintenance because it takes a while to get them installed, but some people may think it's easy to care for because you don't have to style your real hair for a couple of months. But like Smith said, you still have to maintain the braids.
"Boho knotless braids can be high-maintenance, depending on how much of the human hair you add in for the wispy boho look. The more loose wavy/curly pieces you add into the braids, the higher the upkeep," Lynch comments.
She also advises that you'll have to keep your natural hair healthy and hydrated by "regularly keeping your scalp clean and moisturized." Also, don't forget to keep the braids protected with a satin or silk scarf!
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I've been wearing braids in general off and on for years, so caring for them is something that feels second nature. But it doesn't hurt to have a reminder, especially if you're getting this style for the first time.
Below, Smith outlines how to properly care for boho knotless braids at home:
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Both Smith and Lynch have a few product recommendations that you should consider when caring for boho knotless braids! Plus, I'm sharing some of the things I use to maintain my braids at home!
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Lynch suggests, "Wash your hair with a gentle product that provides a deep cleanse, like the 4U by Tia Clarifying Shampoo. It's made with apple cider vinegar to remove buildup while preserving moisture."
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Smith says, "This gentle cleanser refreshes your braids and scalp without stripping moisture."
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I started using this clarifying shampoo the first time I had my knotless braids installed and loved how clean my braids as well as my scalp felt.
It removes hard buildup while keeping your braids and hair hydrated. It also has aloe vera, honey, and willow bark extract in it!
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"Maintain your style with 4U by Tia Curl Refresher Mist, perfect for revitalizing and hydrating your braids between washes. It helps to reduce frizz and can maintain the bounce and shape of the curly/wavy human hair pieces," Lynch says.
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I've been using the Sienna Naturals Dream Curl Mousse to keep my boho knotless braids fresh and it works like a charm! It refreshes my braids without weighing them down and keeps my scalp looking healthy too! It's geared towards enhancing one's curls, but it also helps combat frizz and will hold your style in place!
The ingredients in this mousse are aloe vera juice, Baobab protein, and a nice curl shield complex that protects your hair from damage.
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Smith says this edge control "provides a polished finish around the hairline."
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Trader Joe’s has all the best festive flavors for St. Patrick’s Day, and their shelves are undeniably stocked up with seasonal gems you won’t want to miss. From Irish-inspired cheeses to sweet treats with a lucky twist, there’s no shortage of fun (and delicious!) ways to celebrate this year. If you're looking to add some festive energy to your grocery haul, these TJ’s finds are the perfect way to get into the spirit.
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Whether you use this spicy grass-fed cheddar for a charcuterie board, on top of steaming-hot baked potatoes, or for bite-sized grilled cheeses, your St. Patty's party will be so glad you grabbed it.
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Corned beef is a St. Patty's classic. This brisket comes pre-seasoned with plenty of mustard, coriander, bay leaf, red chili pepper, and dill seed for a unique, yet super familiar flavor profile.
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These readymade pie crusts can be easily transformed for on-theme Shepherd's Pies and desserts alike.
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Soda bread is another can't-miss traditional St. Patrick's Day snack, and this bread mix (where all you have to do is add beer and butter) makes enjoying the snack extremely easy. You could even top it with a medley of other ingredients to enhance a certain flavor profile.
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Any holiday party involving beer (AKA St. Patrick's Day) calls for some fried food. Skip the drive-thru and prep these cheesy sticks right at home for just $5!
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If grillin' is on the docket for your St. Patty's Day plans, opt for one of TJ's fancy steak cuts like this nice $15 rib eye to feed a crowd!
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These soft pretzel twists are just as tasty as the bites you'd get at the stadium – salt and all!
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These "very garlicky" bread boats can host a wide array of fillings like stews, soups, and salads. Just cut 'em up for a finger food that's definitely worthy of your St. Patrick's celebration!
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When it comes to the sweet stuff, you simply can't go wrong with these dark chocolate-covered caramel bites.
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This brownie mix includes notes of fudgy chocolate that's sure to cure any sweet tooth. You could totally serve small bites of this using toothpicks for your party – easy!
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These apple-filled snacks are like mini apple pies: individual pastries filled with sweet, cooked apples and topped with a tasty bit of cinnamon crumble! They bake very quickly in the oven so you don't have to wait long for your St. Patty's dessert.
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Trader Joe's sheet cakes are perfect for sharing. Luckily, this new flavor is gluten-free, so everyone can get a taste of its moist crumb and decadent chocolate frosting.
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Got Irish coffee on the menu? Step it up using this chocolate-hazelnut coffee that'll enhance every single flavor note.
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When summer rolls around each year, our minds automatically ask, "Can we please put down the heat tools?" Between trying to stay hydrated in the heat and the desire to do the bare minimum, all we can think about is how many heatless hairstyles we'll be able to wear this season. This doesn't mean we're skimping on the clean hair products that have been keeping our tresses healthy though.
If this sounds like you but you're not sure which no-heat style to try, we have some major hair inspiration you'll love. And get this - you might just find your next celeb-inspired hairstyle!
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When you could care less about your hair being in your face this summer, 'cornrows' are your friends. They're the ultimate definition of effortless and can be adorned with silver or gold beads.
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Who loves beach waves? We do! You can use hair rollers to achieve heatless curls or you can pin curl your hair if sleeping on rollers doesn't sound comfortable. Another pro tip: Leave your hair in braids for a few hours or when wet, and finger comb it out into a stunning heatless hairstyle.
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Seen all over Instagram and TikTok, Goddess Knotless Braids are the tension-free version of traditional 'box braids.' They have a sleeker appearance and are great for summer vacation when you're definitely not going to be worried about doing your hair.
Image via Godisable Jacob / Pexels
Also referred to as 'Alicia Keys' braids, this hairstyle is achieved by a braid stylist feeding the synthetic hair into your natural hair to create a seamless look. It's another style that takes the stress of doing your hair off your hands for a month.
Image via MART PRODUCTION
Before you think this hairstyle is for kids, think again. It's the quickest way to get your hair out of your face in a cute, minimal way. If you don't mind, you can leave out a few wispy strands so they can frame the sides of your face.
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Don't feel like paying someone to braid your hair? Try this expansive french braid for a simple heatless hairstyle. You can even interweave a cute bandana print scarf into the braid! Peep our easy three strand braid tutorial here to get started.
Image via Kebs Visuals / Pexels
Box braids are a tried and true go-to summer hairstyle that can last anywhere from 4-6 weeks. They can be worn a variety of ways and are great when you don't feel like doing your hair in the morning.
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If you're in the mood for something low maintenance, a messy top knot bun should be high on your list - no pun intended. You can wear it as is or you can tie a cut scarf around it for a little embellishment.
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Wearing your natural afro out can be fun but if you're looking for another option, try wearing a high puff. You can buy affordable bands that allow you to gather your hair securely on top of your head - sans the damage - or you can try using an old, stretched out headband.
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Two strand twists are exactly what they sound like. Depending on your preference, you can two medium-sized pieces of your hair and begin twisting them around each other. After that, you can repeat the process all over your hair until you're done and voila!
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We know that slicked back buns aren't for everyone so if you're craving something that has more 'I woke up like this' energy, a high ponytail will get you there. You can add clip-ins to achieve the fullness of this hairstyle or you can spray a texturizing spray on your hair for extra volume.
Image via George Milton / Pexels
The half-up/half-down hairstyle is universal and looks good on anyone. It pulls your hair away from your face, revealing your gorgeous features and acts as a natural lifting effect.
Image via Sora Shimazaki / Pexels
Last but not least, if you have naturally curly hair, try wearing your hair as is. Sleek hairstyles have a special place in our hearts but so do naturally curly and textured hair. You can achieve a look similar to this hairstyle by unraveling the above two strand twists and using a wide-toothed comb to fluff your roots.
Image via Michelle Leman / Pexels
If you have short hair, you can definitely get away with going heatless. All you need are small curlers or a bit of a pomade, and you can create an effortless look similar to this style.
Image via Jonathan Borba / Pexels
If you're the bride or a part of your friend's bridal party, you'll love this elegant updo complete with a low floral crown. To get this look, you can start by letting your hair air dry after washing it. Next, part medium sections of your hair and begin 'curling' them around your pointer finger for a 'pin curl' effect. Secure them with a bobby pin and voila!
Let us know what's your favorite heatless hairstyle to wear in the comments and subscribe to the Brit + Co newsletter for more summer inspiration!
Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco have made headlines again, but now Hailey Bieber— and all the alleged drama with her — is back in the picture. We were under the impression she was excited for the couple's engagement, but one fan claims she's back at her shady behavior...and it's making people look at her sideways all over again. Here's what allegedly happened, plus what Hailey had to say about it all!
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Hailey Bieber can't seem to catch a break in the news. Though we reported she liked Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco's engagement post last year, there was a suggestion she may have other thoughts about them. It's no secret she and Selena allegedly aren't the best of friends, but we never would've suspected she'd do what one person claims she did.
According to TikTok creator @courtneypresto, Hailey liked a video where she admits to being "a little shady to Selena Gomez." She also shared a couple of interesting pictures of her and Benny's Interview Magazine feature with one of them showing Benny smiling while the singer's two feet are on his cheeks.
But Hailey apparently thinks the creator's claim is "fake news" because her rep told Page Six, "This never happened." To make things slightly worse, the rep also threw @courtneypresto under the bus. "This entire story has been fabricated by a content creator looking to capitalize off of an old, tired narrative." You can't see us, but this statement made us choke on our lattes.
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Buzzfeed reports the model also shared a personal statement on Instagram, but it's unclear who she was referring to. The message started off with, "pastors and preachers really love to put words together with the same letter and act like it's HITTING so crazy..." before she signed off with "...sh-- drives me bananas."
As for Selena & Benny? They're in their own paradise and the singer's recent post dedicated to the producer proves it. She shared a sweet Instagram carousel that captured intimate moments of their love to celebrate his birthday. "I’m not sure what I did to deserve you but damn am I glad you were born.. happy birthday baby ♥️."
Maybe Hailey Bieber liked the original shady TikTok by accident? Whatever the case, we hope the girls aren't fighting again!
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