12 Summer Hair Essentials for Every Occasion

What are boho knotless braids?

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."

How long does it take to install boho knotless braids?

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.

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!

What type of hair is used to install the braids and boho appearance?

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.

How long can this hairstyle be worn?

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."

Is this a high-maintenance hairstyle?

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!

How can one maintain their boho knotless braids at home?

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:

• Cleansing: Wash your scalp every 1-2 weeks with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Dilute the shampoo with water and use a spray bottle to apply it directly to your scalp for easy rinsing.
• Moisturizing: To prevent dryness, apply a leave-in conditioner or lightweight hair oil to your scalp and braids. Focus on your natural hair and the ends to keep them hydrated.
• Scalp Care: Use a nourishing scalp oil or serum to maintain scalp health and alleviate itching. A gentle massage will promote circulation and moisture retention.
• Night Care: Protect your braids while you sleep by wrapping them in a satin or silk scarf, or using a satin or silk pillowcase. This helps reduce friction and maintain the style.
• Frizz Control: Use a styling mousse or gel to tame frizz and flyaways. For a sleek finish around the hairline, a touch of edge control will do the trick.

Do you have product recommendations for washing, styling, and maintaining this style?

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!

4U by Tia Clarifying Shampoo

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."

The Doux SUCKA FREE Moisturizing Shampoo and FRESH RINSE Moisturizing Conditioner Bundle

Smith says, "This gentle cleanser refreshes your braids and scalp without stripping moisture."

TPH BY Taraji Honey Fresh Clarifying Shampoo With Moisture

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!

4U by Tia Curl Refresher Mist

"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.

Sienna Naturals Dream Curl Mousse

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.

The Doux PUSH IT! Edge Control

Smith says this edge control "provides a polished finish around the hairline."

Straight-Back Braids aka 'Cornrows'

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.

Beach Waves

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.

Goddess Knotless Braids

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.

Feed-In Braids

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.

Space Buns

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.

French Braid

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.

Box Braids

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.

Messy Top Knot Bun

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.

High Puff Hairstyle

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.

Two-Strand Twists

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!

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.

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.

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.

Tousled Short Cut

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.

Elegant Updo

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!

Has Gemma been an innie the whole time?

TikTok user @msauroraalice made the connection that Severance season 2 episode 9, "The After Hours," has the same title as a specific Twilight Zone episode in which a mannequin, well, forgets she's a mannequin. And now we're all wondering whether Severance is going to reveal a very similar plotline with Gemma.

"Could Gemma have been manufactured at Lumon and all of her experience with Mark is just a severed version of herself," @msauroraalice says, theorizing that "there is no Gemma."

"I bet this next episode, Gemma or Helly has a horrifying discovery about themselves just like the mannequin realizing she's not even alive," she continues.

Clearly, this Twilight Zone episode has a ton of similarities to Severance, with the split identities of it all. And as one Reddit user just made it even more heartbreaking by saying, "She could be an experiment from the very start which is why they went as far as to fake her death and recruit Mark to work for them. That would be heartbreaking. It would mean Mark and Gemma 's relationship was manufactured from the beginning."

"The After Hours" is sure to set us up for a crazy 'Severance' season 2 finale.

After everything Mark has been through, this would truly be a heartbreaking turn of events and I don't know if I could handle it! I'm not alone, either. TikTok users flooded the comments of the post (which has over 900K views).

"If Gemma was never a full person to begin with I'm gonna lose my mind," one user said, while another theorized, "I think Gemma is real but she actually died. Lumon had plans for her to begin with so they revived her body because they effectively own it and now she's stuck in purgatory testing."

But if this Severance theory breaks your heart as much as it breaks mine, there's a silver lining. "The next episode after 'The After Hours' from TWZ is called 'The Mighty Casey' and is about a robot who becomes more human I believe," a third TikTok user says.

But honestly, emotional devastation — and peeling back a character's insecurities, fears, and heartbreak to get to their core — make for really good TV because of how relatable those moments can be. So we'll just have to see what the Severance season 2 finale has in store.