Stylist: Do you want knotless water wave braids or crotchet deep curls? Decisions, decisions.
The uptake in boho braids has been pretty and phenomenal. The vast selection of curl patterns, colour combos and installation methods are not only morish, but it also means no look is the same. When it comes to landing your perfect boho style “it requires a bit of know-how,” says celebrity braid specialist Molecia Seasay. So where do you start?
According to Spell Beauty brand ambassador Aisha Ibrahim, human hair is the way to go “for style longevity” but there are alternatives. “With the right care human hair will not tangle or matte and can last between six to eight weeks. If you’re partial to synthetic hair you can detangle and reset the curl with a leave-in conditioning spray or foam mousse,” advises Ibrahim.
Knotless braids have become the signature look for boho braids. Defined by crisp partings, silky shine and swooping baby hairs, achieve this flawless effect with a non-alcohol gel formulated with quality ingredients. “Just because your hair is tucked away in a protective style, it doesn’t mean you should get lazy about the products used to maintain it,” says celebrity stylist and boho braid expert May Jayema. “Styling and prepping your natural hair with moisture orientated products will prevent dryness and ward off breakage.”
Scalp care is paramount too. Apply a scalp-targeting serum or oil to alleviate flakes and lessen tension on the hair follicles. This can be done as part of your weekly refresh or when needed. To keep your boho braids flowy and glossy round the clock, before you shower or go to bed, wrap them in a satin or silk lined scarf. This will control frizz levels, but if you choose can be a part of the aesthetic.
9 products to beautify your boho braids
Defined box braids with a soft twist. These pre-looped, knotless braids are lightweight, easy to install and finish in flawless, shapely ringlets. Whether you’re going for everyday ease or a bold new look, they blend effortlessly and come in a variety of natural and two-tone shades for extra style points.
Farewell, toothbrush. The edge tool glow-up is here. The Baby Tress Edge Styler is the internet’s go-to for perfecting gel-downs with zero stress. This compact 3-in-1 beauty hero features a silicone comb to fluff, boar bristles to smooth, and a pointed tip to shape edges like a pro. Viral for a reason – and now stocked in the UK exclusively via Spell Beauty.
Your shower cap, but better. Cantu’s double-sided, satin-lined design keeps your strands protected from steam and moisture while remaining gentle on curls, coils and waves. Durable, roomy and endlessly reusable, it shields hair from frizz and flattening, without compromising on comfort or coverage.
Knot-free, tangle-free, stress-free. Sensationnel’s Empire Human Hair Bulk is infused with Argan oil for lasting softness, shine and manageability. Ideal for boho, goddess and knotless styles, this premium texture stays sleek while delivering the flexibility and moisture retention your style demands.
Biotech meets beauty. K18’s AirWash is a non-aerosol, smart-release dry shampoo that works with your scalp — not against it. Powered by odorBIND™ technology, it eliminates odours, absorbs oil and keeps hair fresher for up to 3 days. Zero residue. Zero white cast. Just science doing its thing.
More hair, less worry. This powerful vegan serum strengthens the roots and helps reduce hereditary hair loss, thanks to a blend of Biomimetic Silk, Ectoin and t-Flavanone. Designed to promote denser, fuller-looking hair with every application — your scalp will thank you.
Built for movement. Ruwa’s Pre-Stretched Braid is featherlight, fast-drying and water-repellent thanks to Aquatex® fibre tech from Kanekalon®. Great for active lifestyles, gym days or poolside braids, it’s tangle-resistant and pre-layered for easy, breezy styling.
Slick, smooth, defined. This strong hold gel uses Jamaican Black Castor Oil to help reduce breakage and lock in styles without crunch or flakes. Ideal for buns, ponytails or defined curls, it keeps your hair in place while keeping hydration intact. No alcohol. No stickiness. Just hold.
A bond-building leave-in that multitasks as hard as you do. This spray strengthens, detangles, hydrates and protects from heat – all in a few spritzes. Formulated with Uberliss’ patented Submicron Technology (the same one trusted in pro salons), plus hair-loving heroes like Vitamin E, Ceramides and Betaine. It’s for all hair types, especially dry or damaged strands that need a little love between washes or after heat styling.
Boho braid gallery
Browse our gallery of looks to fuel your inspiration for your next braiding appointment!
