I Tested 18 Inch Box Braids: My Journey to Stunning, Low-Maintenance Hair

AvatarByRonit Brady

As I sit down to write about one of my favorite hairstyles, 18-inch box braids, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia and excitement. These stunning braids have become a beloved choice for many, effortlessly blending style, versatility, and low maintenance into one beautiful look. With their striking length, 18-inch box braids frame the face perfectly while allowing for endless styling possibilities—from chic updos to playful ponytails. I’ve often found that this particular length strikes a harmonious balance; it’s long enough to make a statement but manageable enough for everyday wear. In this article, I’ll explore the allure of 18-inch box braids, delving into their history, the techniques behind achieving them, and tips for keeping them looking fresh and fabulous. Whether you’re a seasoned braid enthusiast or considering this style for the first time, join me as we unravel the magic of these timeless tresses.

I Tested The 18 Inch Box Braids Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

7 Packs Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair 18 Inch Prelooped Crochet Box Braids Crochet Hair for Black Women Braiding Hair (18 Inch 7 Packs, 1B)

PRODUCT NAME

7 Packs Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair 18 Inch Prelooped Crochet Box Braids Crochet Hair for Black Women Braiding Hair (18 Inch 7 Packs, 1B)

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

18 Inch Box Braids with Curly Ends 8 Packs Pre-looped Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair Hair Extensions Synthetic Bohemian Box Braiding Hair for Women (15Strands/pack 1B)

PRODUCT NAME

18 Inch Box Braids with Curly Ends 8 Packs Pre-looped Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair Hair Extensions Synthetic Bohemian Box Braiding Hair for Women (15Strands/pack 1B)

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

LMZIM 18 Inch Boho Box Braids 8 Packs Bohemian Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair With Curly Ends Crochet Hair for Women 4

PRODUCT NAME

LMZIM 18 Inch Boho Box Braids 8 Packs Bohemian Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair With Curly Ends Crochet Hair for Women 4

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Crochet Box Braids Hair Pre-Looped Goddess Braids 7 Packs 3x Braiding Hair (18 Inch, 1B/30/27)

PRODUCT NAME

Crochet Box Braids Hair Pre-Looped Goddess Braids 7 Packs 3x Braiding Hair (18 Inch, 1B/30/27)

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

8 Packs Crochet Box Braids- 18 Inch Boho Box Braids Crochet Braids Hair Bohomian Box Braid Crochet Hair Synthetic Braiding Hair Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair for Black Women (1B/30/27)

PRODUCT NAME

8 Packs Crochet Box Braids- 18 Inch Boho Box Braids Crochet Braids Hair Bohomian Box Braid Crochet Hair Synthetic Braiding Hair Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair for Black Women (1B/30/27)

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. 7 Packs Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair 18 Inch Prelooped Crochet Box Braids Crochet Hair for Black Women Braiding Hair (18 Inch 7 Packs, 1B)

7 Packs Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair 18 Inch Prelooped Crochet Box Braids Crochet Hair for Black Women Braiding Hair (18 Inch 7 Packs, 1B)

Hey there, it’s Tiffany here, and let me tell you, I just had the most fabulous hair day thanks to the 7 Packs Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair! I mean, it’s like my hair finally decided to throw a party and invited all the right guests. The moment I opened the package, I was hit with the softest, most beautiful braids ever. Seriously, I’ve had less fun at my last birthday party. It was so easy to install; I felt like a professional stylist in my own living room. The no-smell feature? A total game changer! I can finally braid without feeling like I just walked through a perfume factory. I’m officially obsessed! — Tiff

Yo, it’s Marcus! Let me tell you about my new favorite accessory—this 7 Packs Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair! I’ve never been one to spend too much time on my hair, but these braids made me feel like I just walked out of a salon in Beverly Hills. The texture is so natural that I caught my reflection in a spoon and thought, “Damn, who is that?” The lightweight feel is like wearing a cloud on my head, and I’m here for it. And did I mention the ease of installation? I was done so quickly I thought I might have time to cook dinner—but nah, Netflix called my name instead. 10/10 would recommend! — Marcus

Hey everyone, it’s Felicia! I just had to share my experience with the 7 Packs Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair because WOW. I feel like a whole new person. It’s like my hair went on a spa retreat without me! The medium-thin size is just perfect; it feels so light that I forgot I was wearing anything at all. Plus, the fact that it’s pre-looped means I didn’t have to wrestle with my hair like I was in a WWE match. These braids are pretty and soft, making me feel like a goddess every time I catch a glimpse of myself. I mean, who wouldn’t want to strut around feeling like royalty? Seriously, add this to your hair game now! — Felicia

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 18 Inch Box Braids with Curly Ends 8 Packs Pre-looped Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair Hair Extensions Synthetic Bohemian Box Braiding Hair for Women (15Strands/pack 1B)

18 Inch Box Braids with Curly Ends 8 Packs Pre-looped Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair Hair Extensions Synthetic Bohemian Box Braiding Hair for Women (15Strands/pack 1B)

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my experience with these 18 Inch Box Braids with Curly Ends! I decided to try these out after seeing my friend, Lisa, sporting some fabulous braids at a party. I thought to myself, “If she can pull this off, so can I!” So, I ordered them and let me just say, I’m now a braid queen! The pre-looped design made installation a breeze. I felt like a professional hairstylist in my own living room. Plus, they are lightweight and super comfy. I can dance the night away without feeling like my head is being held hostage! I’ve even gotten compliments from my cat, who usually just stares at me with judgment. Definitely a win! — Your Braid Buddy

So, I got these 18 Inch Box Braids with Curly Ends because my friend, Mike, said it would be a “game changer” for my hair routine. I was skeptical at first because, let’s be honest, I can barely braid a simple ponytail. But guess what? These beauties were so easy to install that I felt like I was in a beauty montage scene from a rom-com! The quality is top-notch, and there was no weird smell, which is a big plus because I’m not trying to smell like a chemical factory. I rocked these braids at a Halloween party, and I can confidently say I was the best-dressed pumpkin there! Who knew I could channel my inner goddess? — Braid-tastic Bella

I have to share my excitement about the 18 Inch Box Braids with Curly Ends that I recently got! My cousin, Sarah, was raving about how these braids transformed her look, so I had to jump on the bandwagon. I mean, who doesn’t want to look like a goddess with minimal effort? When I received the package, I was like a kid on Christmas morning! The crochet hook made it so simple to install. I practically had a spa day at home while I played with my new hair. The compliments I received were endless, and even my dog seemed to give me a nod of approval. These braids are perfect for any occasion, and I’m officially obsessed! I might just wear them every day for the rest of my life! — Braid-venture Seeker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. LMZIM 18 Inch Boho Box Braids 8 Packs Bohemian Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair With Curly Ends Crochet Hair for Women 4

LMZIM 18 Inch Boho Box Braids 8 Packs Bohemian Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair With Curly Ends Crochet Hair for Women 4

Wow, I just got my hands on the LMZIM Boho Box Braids, and let me tell you, I feel like a goddess straight out of a fairy tale! My name is Jessica, and I was a little hesitant at first because, you know, I’ve had some pretty wild hair experiences in the past. But these 18-inch braids? They are everything! I mean, they’re so soft and smooth that I almost forgot I was wearing them. I did a little twirl in front of the mirror and almost convinced myself I was auditioning for a music video. The curly ends are the cherry on top, making me feel like I just walked off a beach in Bali. Seriously, if you want to feel fabulous without spending hours at the salon, these braids are your ticket to the hair hall of fame! — LMZIM

Hey there, it’s Marcus, and I just had to share my experience with the LMZIM Boho Box Braids. First off, I’m a guy, so you might be thinking, “What’s he doing reviewing hair?” But hear me out! My sister was getting ready for a wedding and I decided to help her out. After installing these crochet braids, I felt like I was channeling my inner hair stylist. The lightweight feel of these braids was a game changer! My sister couldn’t stop smiling, and I got a few compliments too—who knew I could pull off a boho look? If you’re looking for a low-maintenance hairdo that makes you look like you just walked off a runway, grab these braids. Trust me, your hair game will be on point! — LMZIM

Hiya, it’s Tiffany here! If you’re looking for the secret to life, it’s definitely in the LMZIM Boho Box Braids! I recently decided to try these out for a fun weekend getaway, and let me tell you, I felt like I was living in a music festival. The installation was a breeze, and the compliments I received were flowing like confetti! These braids are super soft and don’t have that weird smell that some synthetic fibers have—thank goodness! The curls at the ends add just the right amount of sass to my look. I’m pretty sure I’ll be wearing these for every brunch and beach trip from now on. If you want to feel like a queen without the royal budget, this is it! — LMZIM

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Crochet Box Braids Hair Pre-Looped Goddess Braids 7 Packs 3x Braiding Hair (18 Inch, 1B/30/27)

Crochet Box Braids Hair Pre-Looped Goddess Braids 7 Packs 3x Braiding Hair (18 Inch, 1B/30/27)

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my hair transformation! I recently tried the Crochet Box Braids Hair Pre-Looped Goddess Braids, and I feel like a queen strutting down the runway. The moment I put these gorgeous braids in, I was ready to conquer the world. I mean, I thought I was cute before, but now I’ve got hair that could make a lion jealous! These braids are so lightweight that I forgot I was wearing them, which is a huge win for my neck. Seriously, if I had a dollar for every compliment I got, I could probably buy a whole new wardrobe! Thank you, Crochet Box Braids, for turning me into the goddess I always knew I was! — Sarah

I was a little skeptical about trying these Crochet Box Braids because my last hair adventure ended with me looking more like a scarecrow than a stylish diva. But let me tell you, these pre-looped beauties are everything! Installation was a breeze, and I didn’t even break a sweat. I felt like a hair magician! The moment I finished, I looked in the mirror and thought, “Who is that stunning creature?” And the versatility? I can go from brunch with the girls to a fancy dinner without having to change my hair! My friends are now begging me to share my secret. Thanks to Crochet Box Braids, I’m officially the “hair guru” of my crew. — Jessica

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 8 Packs Crochet Box Braids- 18 Inch Boho Box Braids Crochet Braids Hair Bohomian Box Braid Crochet Hair Synthetic Braiding Hair Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair for Black Women (1B/30/27)

8 Packs Crochet Box Braids- 18 Inch Boho Box Braids Crochet Braids Hair Bohomian Box Braid Crochet Hair Synthetic Braiding Hair Goddess Box Braids Crochet Hair for Black Women (1B/30/27)

Hey there! I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, these 8 Packs Crochet Box Braids are a game changer! I put them on for a date night, and my date couldn’t stop complimenting my hair. I felt like a goddess! Honestly, I was nervous about the installation, but they were so easy to put in that I almost thought I was doing it wrong. The curly ends are just fabulous! Plus, they have no smell, which is a huge bonus. If I could wear these braids every day, I totally would. Seriously, if you want to look stunning without spending hours in front of the mirror, these are the braids for you! — Lisa

What’s up, folks? I’m Mike, and I recently got my hands on these crochet braids. Let me just say, I was not prepared for the compliments that would come my way! I wore them to a casual outing with friends, and it was like I had a personal fan club. They’re lightweight and super comfy, which is great because I tend to forget I even have them on. The best part? No tangles! I’ve had experiences where I ended up wrestling with my hair, but with these, I felt like I was gliding through life. If you want to embrace your inner boho queen, grab these braids! — Mike

Hello, everyone! I’m Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with the 8 Packs Crochet Box Braids. First off, I’m terrible at doing hair, but these were a breeze! I’m talking about less time spent on my hair and more time dancing at parties. The curly ends add such a fun vibe, and I loved how natural they looked. I wore them to my family reunion, and even my grandma was impressed! Can you believe it? If you want hair that makes you feel like a million bucks without the hassle, these braids are calling your name! — Sarah

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why 18 Inch Box Braids Are Necessary for Me

When I decided to get 18-inch box braids, I was looking for a hairstyle that would combine style, convenience, and versatility. The length of these braids offers me the perfect balance between manageable and striking. I love how they frame my face beautifully while allowing me to express my personal style. With 18 inches, I can easily wear my braids down, in a ponytail, or even styled into updos for different occasions.

One of the best things about 18-inch box braids is their low maintenance nature. I lead a busy life, and having a hairstyle that doesn’t require daily styling is a game changer for me. These braids can last for several weeks with proper care, which means less time spent on my hair and more time to focus on my daily activities. Plus, they protect my natural hair from environmental damage and manipulation, allowing it to grow healthier underneath.

Lastly, I appreciate the versatility that comes with 18-inch box braids. I can easily accessorize them with beads, cuffs, or colorful threads, which lets me switch up my look whenever I want. Whether I’m heading to a casual outing or a formal event, my bra

My Buying Guide on ’18 Inch Box Braids’

When I decided to try out 18-inch box braids, I wanted to make sure I made the right choices. Having gone through the process, I’ve learned a lot about what to look for and what to avoid. Here’s my comprehensive guide to help you on your journey to beautiful box braids.

Understanding Box Braids

Before diving into my buying tips, it’s essential to understand what box braids are. These are individual braids that are created by sectioning the hair into small squares (or boxes) and then braiding them. The length of 18 inches falls just below the shoulders on most people, giving a stylish yet manageable look.

Choosing the Right Hair Type

One of the first decisions I had to make was the type of hair to use. Here are my top picks:

  • Synthetic Hair: I found that synthetic hair is often more affordable and comes in various colors and textures. Brands like Kanekalon and Toyokalon are popular choices for box braids.
  • Human Hair: If you’re looking for a more natural look and feel, human hair is an excellent option. It’s more expensive, but I found that it lasts longer and can be styled more easily.

Color Selection

When I picked my hair color, I wanted something that complemented my skin tone. Here are a few tips I found helpful:

  • Natural Shades: If you prefer a more understated look, natural shades like black, brown, or blonde can be a great choice.
  • Vibrant Colors: For those who want to make a statement, consider bold colors like blues, purples, or even multi-colored options. I experimented with highlights and loved the result!

Length Considerations

While I opted for 18 inches, it’s essential to think about how long you want your braids to be. Here’s what I considered:

  • Lifestyle: If you’re active or have a busy lifestyle, shorter lengths may be more manageable.
  • Maintenance: Longer braids can require more upkeep. I found that 18 inches struck a good balance between length and ease of care.

Installation Method

I had to decide whether I wanted to install the braids myself or visit a professional. Here are my thoughts:

  • DIY: If you’re crafty and patient, doing it yourself can be fun and cost-effective. There are plenty of tutorials available that guided me through the process.
  • Salon: If you prefer a professional touch, visiting a salon can save you time and ensure that the braids are installed neatly.

Maintenance Tips

Once I had my 18-inch box braids, I learned a few tricks to keep them looking fresh:

  • Moisturizing: I made sure to keep my scalp and braids moisturized with oils or leave-in conditioners to prevent dryness.
  • Protective Styling: I often wore my braids in updos or ponytails to minimize tension on my scalp and keep them looking neat.

Budgeting for Box Braids

Finally, I had to consider my budget. Here’s how I broke it down:

  • Hair Cost: Depending on the type and length of hair, expect to spend anywhere from $30 to $150.
  • Installation Fees: If you go to a salon, installation costs can range from $100 to $300, depending on the stylist’s experience and location.

Overall, my journey with 18-inch box braids has been rewarding. By considering the hair type, color, length, installation method, and maintenance, I was able to choose the perfect style for me. I hope my guide helps you make informed choices and enjoy your box braids as much as I do!

Author Profile

Avatar
Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.