Last Updated on August 25, 2025 by Laverne Rhimes
Medium knotless braids are a game-changing protective hairstyle that many Black women love. This low-tension braid style grows out looking natural, which is why celebrities like Beyoncé, Keke Palmer, and Zoe Kravitz have worn knotless braids. Medium knotless braids strike a balance between fine detail and fullness – they’re thicker than small braids but finer than large ones. This makes them stylish yet manageable, perfect for everyday wear. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about medium knotless braids: what they are, why they’re trending, tons of styling ideas (from shoulder-length to waist-length looks), tutorials, care tips, and more.
What are Knotless Braids?
Knotless braids are a modern twist on classic box braids. Instead of starting with a bulky knot at the scalp, the stylist begins by braiding your natural hair first and gradually adds the extension hair into the braid. This creates a smooth, flat root that makes the braids appear to be growing directly from your scalp. Knotless braids reduce scalp tension and discomfort because the base has no tight knots. In fact, stylists note that knotless braids are “weightless” compared to traditional box braids, which often pull on the scalp. This technique can be used for box braids, goddess braids, or crochet braids – the key is that extensions are added along the way, making knotless styles more flexible and natural-looking. In short, knotless braids provide a sleek and comfortable protective style that lies flat at the roots.
What are Medium Knotless Braids?
Medium knotless braids refer to braids of moderate thickness – not too thin or chunky. They “fall in the middle of the spectrum” in size. This size is popular because it’s easy to style and looks full without being heavy. Many stylists actually recommend medium knotless braids for first-timers, since they take less time to install and require less hair than smaller braids. Medium braids also give your hair a lovely, voluminous look without straining your edges. In practice, medium knotless braids can range from shoulder-level to waist-length. For example, shoulder-length medium braids usually hit around the collarbone, while waist-length ones fall to the lower back. (To give an idea, shoulder-length medium braids often require about 5–7 packs of hair.) We’ll show many stunning examples of medium knotless braids at various lengths, proving this style’s versatility.
Trending Medium Knotless Braids
Medium knotless braids are having a major moment right now. Stylists and influencers create fresh, creative takes on this classic protective look. Here are some of the hottest medium knotless braid styles to try:
Classic Medium Knotless Braids
This timeless style is simply medium knotless braids in a solid color (often black or dark brown) with no extra curls or highlights. The parts are clean, the braids uniform, and they usually hang straight down mid-back. It’s “classic” because it never goes out of style. This straightforward look is great for any occasion – casual or formal. It highlights the beauty of the technique itself. Classic medium braids show how even a simple protective style can be elegant and chic. For a little fun, one might add a single bead here or there, but even without, it’s a polished everyday look.
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Medium Knotless Braids + Bantu Knot Ends
This playful style mixes knotless braids with mini Bantu knots at the tips. Picture medium-thick braids that dangle freely until their ends, twisted into tiny coils (Bantu knots). The result is a cool boho vibe that’s eye-catching and fun. Sometimes, stylists even add curly tendrils left out of the knots for extra texture. Overall, this look combines the neatness of braids with the flair of Bantu knots—perfect if you want a mix of elegance and edge.
Black to Blonde Ombré Knotless Braids
The braids start jet black near the scalp and gradually transition to a warm blonde at the tips. This bold ombré color effect is super trendy. It gives the illusion of sun-kissed ends while keeping the base dark and natural. The contrast between the black roots and honey-blonde ends makes these medium knotless braids pop. This style feels modern and chic, and it frames the face beautifully. Plus, color blocking like this can draw attention to the braids’ length and texture. Many women love this look because it’s striking without requiring bleach near the scalp.
Shoulder-Length Medium Knotless Box Braids with White Beads
This is a cute, summery variation: medium knotless box braids cropped to shoulder length, finished with white beads at the ends. The braids are parted into clean squares (hence “box”), each tipped with white beads or shells. The white beads against the black hair create a lovely contrast and add a tribal-chic accent. Because the braids are shorter, the low-maintenance style still looks full. The beads give it extra personality and movement. It’s a fun, youthful look for warm weather or a casual vibe.
Burgundy and Blonde Color Combo in Medium Knotless Braids
This look achieves a two-tone effect by dyeing some braids burgundy and others blonde. Imagine medium knotless braids, half deep wine-red and half sunny blonde. Together, they create a rich, dimensional color combo. It’s like wearing colorful highlights but in braid form. The burgundy tones add depth and drama, while the blonde adds lightness and bounce. This style stands out because it’s colorful yet balanced. It shows off how versatile medium knotless braids can be when you mix multiple colors.
Blonde Highlighted Medium Knotless Braids into High Bun
This style features medium braids with blonde highlights pulled into a high bun. You’d part your hair normally for the braids, then gather the whole set into a topknot at the end. Because of the added blonde strands, the bun has dimension and extra shine. It’s a glamorous, easy updo that keeps your hair off the neck. The blonde highlights catch the light and frame your face in the bun. This style shows how medium knotless braids can be styled up – it’s practical for active days but still very eye-catching thanks to the color.
Back-Length Black Knotless Braids with Pink Beads
These are long, medium braids (hitting mid-back or so) in jet black, accented with pink beads. The braids are uniform and sleek, and fun pops of bubblegum-pink beads are added here and there (often at the ends). The pink beads look playful and feminine against the black hair. This look is bold and girly: long, shiny black braids swish, but the little bright beads add a flirty touch. It’s a style that can be dressed up or down – the beads make it extra cute, while the length keeps it classic.
Deep Blonde Knotless Braids with French Curls
These medium knotless braids are dyed a rich, deep blonde (like a golden or honey blonde) and finished with French curl ends. (French curls are those tight, springy ringlets you sometimes see on braid tips.) Picture waist-length braids that end not bluntly, but in bouncy spiral curls. It’s a very feminine, elegant look. The deep blonde adds warmth, and the curls give each braid a dramatic flair. You get a boho-luxe effect, since the curls feel like a nod to the “goddess braids” trend. This style shows off both the length and craftsmanship of the braids.
Medium Knotless Braids with Multicolored Beads
This fun style jazzes up medium braid ends by stringing on beads in many colors—think beads of red, yellow, blue, green, etc. The stylist may also intersperse colorful wooden or plastic beads along each braid. The braids are usually dark, so the multicolored beads really pop. It has a playful, bohemian look. These vibrant accents make even plain black braids look festive and unique. It’s perfect if you want to personalize your braids and embrace a colorful, artsy vibe.
Black to Honey Blonde Medium Knotless Braids
Another ombré style, this one fades from black at the roots to a warm honey blonde at the ends. Unlike the high-contrast black-to-blonde earlier, this version uses golden honey tones that blend more softly. The result is sun-kissed and warm-looking. This look feels more subtle than stark black and platinum, but it still has a stunning two-tone effect. The golden ends make your hair appear bright and healthy, while the black base keeps it grounded and natural.
Side Part Medium Knotless Box Braids
This is a parting-style tweak: braids are installed with a deep side part instead of down the middle. The braids themselves are medium thickness and can be any color. The key is that the parting line is off-center, so one side has more braids or volume than the other. This gives an asymmetrical, sexy look. It’s also practical – a side part can frame your face differently, showing off one side more. Even without any color or beads, this hairstyle stands out with its clever braid placement.
Medium Knotless Braids with Blonde Spanish Curls
Here, medium braids are made into long, loose curls at the ends—often called Spanish curls. The braids might be the wearer’s natural color or lightly highlighted. The last few inches are curly blonde extensions. These soft, blonde curls at the tips add drama and movement and give the braids a “Hollywood glam” feel. Think of them like wearing a curly blonde faux-hair piece at the bottom of each braid. It’s a bold look, combining polished braids with flowing curls.
Medium Peekaboo Knotless Braids with Curly Edges
In this style, there’s a hidden pop of color under the main braids (that’s the “peekaboo” effect), plus curly ends. For example, the braids might be black on top, but under certain sections, there are burgundy or brown braids peeking out. Then the ends of all the braids are curled or fluffed. The curls at the edges add softness around the face. The hidden color (the peekaboo) adds intrigue and depth. It’s a creative, fashion-forward look that combines subtle surprise elements (peekaboo color) with a finish of bouncy curls.
Center Part Honey Blonde Medium Knotless Braids
This classic symmetrical style is medium knotless braids in a honey blonde shade, parted down the center. The uniform color and center part give a sleek, polished look. Each braid is the warm honey color from root to tip. The middle part balances the style and frames the face nicely. This style exudes a timeless, elegant vibe because the color is rich but natural, and the parting is even. It’s great for women who want something fashionable but not too experimental.
Goddess Knotless Braids with Blonde Curls
These braids take inspiration from “goddess braids.” They are thick, medium-size, knotless braids, often in a dark color at the roots that fade to blonde near the ends, and finished with big, loose blonde curls. The curls (sometimes called “goddess curls”) are lush and large, giving a super-glamorous look. It’s like wearing a curly extension at the end of each braid. This style is very dramatic and regal-looking. The braided and curly combo feels powerful and feminine – a “goddess” vibe.
Medium Knotless Braids with Twisted Curls
In this variation, each braid ends in a neat twisted curl. That means the ends are not just straight or free-flowing, but are coiled into spring-like twists. Sometimes stylists twist the last few inches of braiding hair with a curling tool, so each tip forms a neat spiral. These twists give the style a playful bounce. The braids themselves remain uniform, medium-thick. This twist at the end is subtler than full curls, but still adds flair and dimension to your finish.
Neat Medium Knotless Box Braids
“Neat” braids mean uniform, clean parts and smooth edges. In this style, medium knotless braids are done tidily: every part is even, no stray hairs, and each braid is of uniform width. There are no extra colors or accessories—just crisp, dark braids neatly hanging straight down. This classic look is timeless and versatile. It shows off the artistry of good braiding. Neat box braids are ideal for an elegant, fuss-free style that highlights the braids’ beauty.
Medium Knotless Braids with Highlighted Curls
Here, the braids might be a base color like dark brown, with subtle blonde highlights woven in, and each tip ends curly. For example, you could have medium dark-brown braids with a lighter “money piece” or highlights at the front, and then loose curls at the ends. The highlights brighten up the look, and the curls add bounce. It resembles the earlier blonde curls style but has an extra dimension in color. This results in a multi-tonal style where the braids graduate into highlighted curly ends – a lively, textured appearance.
Medium Knotless Braids with a Pop of Curl at the Ends
This one is a simpler version of curly ends: medium braids left mostly straight, but the last inch or so on each braid is curled outward. Think of it as a slight flip or wave at the tip of each braid. It’s a quick way to soften the look and add personality. Like all black braids, the color might be uniform, but those little flare curls at the ends make each braid look lighter and fun. This style shows how even a small curl can “pop” and make your medium braids stand out more.
Platinum Blonde Medium Knotless Braids
These braids go all out with color: every braid is dyed a bold platinum blonde from top to bottom. The result is a striking, snow-blonde mane of braids. The medium size keeps them manageable even in a bright color. This look grabs attention – the pale blonde braids can make the eyes of the person pop and give an edgy, high-fashion vibe. It’s a fearless style choice, perfect if you love a light, silvery color. The clean, icy blonde also accentuates the shape of each braid and the parting.
Fulani Knotless Braids
Fulani braids are inspired by traditional West African tribal styles. In a knotless version, you’ll often see the hair braided close to the scalp in straight-back cornrows on the top or sides, and then the rest of the hair braided into medium knotless plaits. These braids are usually decorated with cowrie shells, beads, or gold cuffs along their lengths, which gives them that tribal-chic flair. Some are gathered into a half-updo, others left loose. The key features are the neat cornrow patterns on the scalp (often with a central braid called a “feeding braid”) and adornments. Fulani knotless braids mix artistry with history, creating a protective and richly cultural look.
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Red and Black Color Combo in Medium Knotless Braids + Curly Edges
This style alternates bold red and black braids, finished with curly tips. For example, you might have half the braids in a vibrant cherry red and the other half in jet black. The ends of all braids (red or black) are curled or fluffed out. This creates a fiery, eye-catching look – the contrast between the red and black is very dramatic. The curly ends add extra volume and a playful edge. It’s a statement style that screams confidence and creativity.
Blonde Highlighted Medium Knotless Braids with Blonde Curly Ends
These braids feature blonde highlights throughout and end in tight blonde ringlets. Imagine medium-sized dark braids, but scattered among them are strands of bright blonde. Then, instead of straight tips, each braid ends in a springy blonde curl. It’s like a blend of highlighted braids and goddess curls. The double blonde (throughout and at ends) makes the style pop against a darker skin tone. This look is radiant and luxurious, as the blonde hues glow and the curls sway beautifully.
Triangular Medium Knotless Box Braids
The hair is sectioned into triangular parts instead of the usual squares or rectangles in this variation. This changes the pattern of the scalp – it looks geometric and eye-catching. Each braid has medium thickness and follows the triangular section from which it was made. The braids themselves could be a uniform color, like dark brown. Triangular parts can make the hairstyle look more intricate from the top view. It’s a creative twist (pun intended) on classic box braids – same medium-size braids, just carved from triangle-shaped sections.
Neat Burgundy Knotless Braids
This is a “neat” style (clean parts, no frizz) in a burgundy shade. The braids themselves are medium thickness and dyed a rich burgundy-red. Because they’re neat, every row is aligned perfectly, and the braids have a polished finish. The burgundy color gives a beautiful warmth and is a fun alternative to black or brown. It looks especially lovely on darker skin tones, adding a pop of deep red without being too bright. The overall vibe is sophisticated and well-groomed, with a subtle glam thanks to the color.
Ombré Knotless Braids (Black to Brown Transition)
Here, the braids have a gentle ombré from black at the roots to a medium brown at the ends. This is subtler than a black-to-blonde fade. It mimics how hair might lighten in the sun, making the effect warm and natural-looking. The ends might be a chestnut or caramel brown. This style is very wearable—it adds visual interest without an extreme color change. It’s a nice option if you want some color dimension but still prefer relatively natural tones.
Black Peekaboo Knotless Braids with Brown Hidden Braids
This style mixes peekaboo color with knotless braids. The top layer of braids is all black. However, hidden braids in dark brown are woven under some sections (often around the perimeter or parting). You only see the brown when you tuck the black braids aside or when the hair moves. It’s like a little surprise color that peeks through. The overall effect is subtle – from a distance it looks like uniform black braids, but up close there’s a tonal richness. This adds depth and a bit of fun without going full color.
Knotless Braids with a Lil Razzle Dazzle (Blonde Curls at the End)
This fun name refers to medium knotless braids with blonde curls at the very end. Think of it as a subtle twist: the braids can be dark for most of their length, and then the last couple of inches are made of loose blonde ringlets. These little blonde curls act like a “razzle dazzle” sparkle at the tips. It’s a playful detail that makes each braid bounce as you move. It’s similar to other curly-end styles, but by calling it “razzle dazzle,” it implies a fun, sassy attitude.
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Medium Knotless Braids with Customized Shapes
This is a creative, bespoke look where the sections on your scalp are parted into unique shapes – like hearts, triangles, or other patterns – and then braided. For example, you might have triangular braids on top, square ones elsewhere, or even a heart-shaped part in the middle. The braids themselves are medium-thick and follow these patterns. This style is all about personalization. It’s a way to make the braid installation itself an art. No one will have the same pattern as you. It’s perfect if you want a unique hairstyle tailored just for you.
Blonde Jumbo Medium Knotless Braids with Curly Edges
Here, “jumbo medium” suggests the braids are on the thicker side of medium. They are blonde or honey-blonde in color. Curly edges are created at the ends of each thick braid (either by curling the ends or by adding curly extensions). This gives a bold look: thick, chunky blonde braids that end in big curls. It’s a mix of knotless braids and goddess braids vibes. The curls soften the boldness of the chunky braids, balancing the whole look. It’s a statement hairstyle with lots of volume at the ends.
Rectangular Medium Knotless Braids with Curly Ends
This refers to the shape of the parts: rectangular sections on the scalp, leading to medium braids, each finishing in a curl. So imagine all parts are neat rectangles (instead of squares or triangles). The braids themselves are medium thickness and may be dark or colored. At the tips, each braid curls out. It’s very similar to the last few styles, emphasizing the neat rectangle grid on the scalp. Combining straight braids with flirty curls is a popular “boho” look nowadays.
Boho Medium Knotless Braids
“Boho” stands for bohemian, a relaxed, artsy vibe. This style often features medium knotless braids, free-flowing curly pieces, and many accessories. For example, braids might be interspersed with loose, wavy strands of hair or chain links and beads. The ends might be left semi-curly. The overall feel is carefree and whimsical. You might see a boho braid style paired with a bandana or worn in a half-up, half-down way. It’s a creative, laid-back look that works great for summer festivals or any time you want a groovy, eclectic style.
Fulani-Inspired Medium Knotless Braids
Similar to the “Fulani braids” earlier, this one specifically refers to a medium-knotless interpretation. The hair is typically styled with side parts or cornrowed edges, and the central part has medium braids adorned with beads. Often, the hairline is braided into neat cornrows that feed into medium hanging braids. Traditional Fulani braids include a thicker cornrow in the center, smaller ones on the sides, and beads or rings. In this style, the medium knotless braids bring a soft, modern take to that tribal look. It honors the Fulani style’s heritage (known for tribal patterns and beads) but with the smooth, flat roots of knotless braiding.
Purple Highlighted Medium Knotless Braids
Here, the braids are mostly a dark base color but include streaks or clusters of purple highlights. For instance, maybe every other braid has a bright purple chunk woven in. The purple can range from lavender to deep violet. Medium thickness means the purple pops against the dark hair, but there’s still a lot of the base color. This is a very trendy, fun choice. It’s less intense than going all purple, but adds a unique, colorful twist. The highlights catch the light nicely and draw attention to the texture of each braid.
Triangle Medium Knotless Braids into a High Bun
This is a combination of two elements: triangular parting and an updo. First, the scalp is sectioned into triangular shapes. Then, after the medium braids are done, they are all gathered and styled into a high bun. The bun sits on top of the head. You might see a few curly pieces left out for a soft effect. The triangular parts give the braids a crisp pattern, and the high bun shows off the braids in a chic updo. This style looks neat and modern – a fancy “updo meets knotless” look.
Knotless Heart Braids
This creative style features a parting in the shape of a heart or several hearts. For example, the central part might be curved into a heart shape, and the braids follow that heart outline. Then the rest of the hair is braided normally. The result: from above, you can make out a heart pattern in the parting. It’s a fun, romantic look. Some stylists might even braid the heart shape as a pattern itself. This style shows how customizable braids can be – even shapes in the scalp matter!
Smedium Knotless Braids
“Smedium” (a portmanteau of small and medium) suggests braids that are slightly thinner than our typical “medium.” These braids are still thicker than tiny micro braids but more petite than full medium braids. People call them “smedium” because they want a neat look that still shows off definition. They can look very cute – offering lots of texture and fullness without taking all day to install. This term isn’t as common, but if someone says “smedium,” know they mean “sort of medium.”
Bohemian Vibe with Medium Knotless Braids
This is a broad category, but generally it means medium knotless braids styled with a boho-chic flair. That could include loose curls at the ends, spiral curls randomly placed, face-framing highlights, and plenty of beads or gold cuffs. There may be cornrows at the front and free-flowing braids in the back. The idea is effortless and artsy. Think of a young creative or musician with lots of personality – that’s the vibe. Accessorize it with a headscarf or wear it over a flowy dress.
Bright Honey Blonde Knotless Braids
These are medium knotless braids in a vivid honey-blonde (a warm yellowish tone). The color is bright and bold. There are no special ends—just straight braids showcasing that golden blonde hue all over. This style glows in sunlight. It’s a sunny, cheerful look that can really brighten the face. Many women choose a honey blonde for a radiant summer vibe. The color is the main event, even as medium braids with no extra frill.
Center Part Knotless Braids with Boho Vibe
This combines a straightforward center part with bohemian elements. So imagine a neat center part with medium knotless braids running down each side, but with one twist: the ends might be loosely curled or wavy. Perhaps a few braids are selectively left out to create a half-up twist, or some thin curly tendrils are wrapped around the part. The center part keeps it symmetrical and neat, while the boho touches (like soft curls or beads) add a relaxed, free-spirited flair.
Shoulder-Length Medium Knotless Braids
As the name suggests, these braids are cut to fall around the shoulders. The length makes them easy to manage – they’re not so long that you can’t style them high, but they still frame the face well. In a shoulder-length medium braid style, you might see a classic honey brown or black color, and maybe small beads at the ends. The vibe is youthful and casual. It’s one of the more practical lengths, perfect for a sporty or office-ready look.
Deep Burgundy Knotless Braids with Curly Ends
These braids start with a deep burgundy-red color and have curly tips. The rich burgundy is dramatic and moody, and when paired with floppy curls at the ends, it becomes sultry and elegant. The curls might be loose ringlets, so the transition from braided to curly isn’t too abrupt. This look is great for fall or winter, as the color is warm and luxurious. The curls also add softness that balances the bold red shade.
Knotless Soft Loc Boho Bob
This is a really creative one. “Soft locs” means the braids are made to look like faux locs – thick, rope-like twists – but with a softer, bohemian edge. Often done as a bob, the style is chin-length or shoulder bob-length. You might see many loose waves or curls incorporated, giving it a locs/boho mix. It’s protective and trendy, combining the allure of faux locs with the boho charm of loosely textured ends. The braids feel thick but not stiff.
Blonde Knotless Braids with Coily Edges
Picture medium blonde braids (the whole braid might be a light blonde shade) with coily, spiral edges around the face. So at the hairline, instead of flat edges, there are small curly or coiled pieces (sometimes made with an edge tool or left out and curled). The blonde color and the coils make this look soft and lovely. The coily baby hairs frame the face delicately. It’s like giving your braids a cute, curly fringe. This style says “detailed and neat,” as coily edges take extra work.
Thin Medium Knotless Braids with Curly Edges
Here, the braids are on the thinner side of medium. Interestingly, they’re combined with curly edges (similar to above). This means the braids themselves are finer, but you see at the front lots of little spiral curls along the hairline. The slim braids draw attention to the intricate edges. This look is playful – refined (thin braids) and cute (curly baby hairs).
Peekaboo Knotless Braids (Black Primary, Red Hidden)
This is a color-reveal style. The main braids are black. Some bright red braids are woven in underneath, hidden from full view. As you move, bits of the red show through the black. It resembles the earlier peekaboo styles, specifically black on top and red beneath. It creates a subtle heat – black for everyday, red for wow. The hidden red is often placed under the part or around the ear so it flickers out occasionally. It’s a daring look with a secret pop of color.
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Blue Knotless Braids
This one is all about the color blue. The braids themselves are dyed a shade of blue—maybe royal blue, sky blue, or dark navy. The medium size stays, but now the entire head is a vibrant blue. It could also be an ombré from black to blue or all-over. Blue braids are fun and adventurous. They can be worn to make a statement and often pair well with cool-toned outfits or accessories. Think of it as a bold art piece on your head.
Hybrid Medium Knotless Braids (Box Braids + Cornrows)
This style mixes two techniques. Often, the front or sides of the hair are done in neat cornrows (braided flat along the scalp), while the back is left in hanging medium knotless box braids. For example, you might see a few straight-back or curved cornrows from the front to the middle, and then all braids hang below. This hybrid style is practical – cornrows use up that front hair neatly, and the medium braids show off length and versatility. It’s dynamic and modern.
Knotless Spoon Braids (Cornrow) + Box Braids (Back Side) + Boho Curls
This elaborate style combines three elements. “Spoon braids” refer to cornrows that zigzag or have a particular creative pattern (sometimes the name implies a certain curve). So in front of or on the sides, you have detailed cornrow patterns. You have medium knotless box braids in the back and other areas. Finally, “boho curls” might be loose, wavy, or curly pieces added randomly among the braids or at the ends. The result is very artistic: neat cornrows, classic braids, and undone curls. It’s ideal for someone who loves a free-spirited, high-fashion style.
Medium Knotless Braids Tutorial
You can create medium knotless braids at a salon or at home with practice. Here’s the basic process: First, wash and stretch your hair – detangle and moisturize the scalp. Then part your hair into medium-sized sections. To start each braid, take one section of your natural hair and begin braiding it for a couple of inches. Then, gradually feed a piece of pre-stretched braiding hair into that braid as you continue.
This is the key step: the braid begins with your hair, then you add extension hair bit by bit until the braid is the full length. Adding hair gradually, you maintain tension control and avoid bulky knots. Continue this for each section. When you reach the ends, dip them in hot water or use a curling tool to seal them, depending on the hair type. Finally, trim any stray hairs and style the edges. The result should be medium-thickness braids with flat, knotless roots. (Remember: practice and patience are important. If you do it yourself, consider watching a braid tutorial or asking a friend. A professional braider can often achieve a sleeker look and save time.)
Maintenance of Medium Knotless Braids
Taking care of your medium knotless braids will keep them looking fresh for weeks. Here are some key tips:
- Moisturize the scalp and braids. Apply a light oil or a water-based leave-in spray a few times a week. This keeps your scalp from drying out and prevents frizz. An alcohol-free curl refresher or foam mousse can tame flyaways without stiffness.
- Protect at night. Sleep with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet, or on a satin pillowcase. This reduces friction and keeps your braids from getting fuzzy.
- Limit the tension. Avoid styles that yank on the roots for too long (like super-tight ponytails). Knotless braids already feel lighter, but give your edges a break.
- Keep them clean. You can gently cleanse your scalp by applying diluted shampoo with a soft cloth along the parts, then patting dry. There are also braid cleansers and dry shampoos specifically for braids.
- Duration. Professionals recommend not leaving your braids in for more than 8–10 weeks. Any longer can risk matting or breakage at the roots, so plan to take them down or touch them up by then.
With consistent care – light moisturizing and gentle handling – medium knotless braids can stay neat and pretty for up to two months.
Differences Between Traditional Box Braids and Medium Knotless Braids
Medium knotless braids and traditional box braids look similar at first glance, but key differences set them apart:
- Scalp tension: Traditional box braids start with a knot of extensions at the root, which can tug on the scalp. Knotless braids begin by braiding your hair first, making the base much smoother and lighter. According to experts, “knotless braids are weightless,” whereas traditional braids can cause more tension and sometimes breakage.
- Installation method: In classic box braids, the extension hair is usually folded at the root into a knot. In a knotless braid, the stylist begins with your natural hair and feeds in the extension hair, creating a seamless look. This means that knotless braids lie flat and have no visible bumps on the scalp.
- Hair health: Because of the gentler start, knotless braids are better for natural hair health. They’re still protective (shielding hair from elements and manipulation) but avoid some of the stress of a tight knot. Many find that knotless braids cause less breakage and are safer on edges.
- Weight: Knotless braids use fewer braiding strands overall, which makes them lighter on the head. This means you can often put your hair up immediately without feeling like a ton of weight is pulling down.
- Styling versatility: Both styles can be dressed up in many ways, but because knotless braids start smaller at the root, they can feel more flexible. You can make a knotless braid ponytail sooner, and some people find styling easier.
In summary, braiders and stylists invented knotless braids to improve on classic box braids. They reduce tension at the scalp and make the overall style feel more natural and light.
Pros and Cons of Medium Knotless Braids
Every hairstyle has trade-offs. Let’s break down the pros and cons.
Pros
Medium knotless braids are extremely versatile and eye-catching. They are a protective style that lets your hair rest – hiding ends and minimizing daily damage. Because they start flat at the scalp, they feel more comfortable (almost pain-free) than tight braids. They also look very natural, blending extensions with your hair seamlessly. You get a satisfying volume in a medium size without feeling too bulky. Styling-wise, you can wear them down, in a bun, half-up, or any way you like right after installation (no waiting for loosening). Many African American women find them flattering and easy to maintain with simple care routines.
Cons
The main drawbacks are time and cost. Even though medium braids take less time than tiny ones, you’re still looking at several hours in the salon (typically around 4–5 hours for a full head). That means you need patience or a plan. Costs vary, but on average, expect to pay maybe $150–$250 or more for a professional install, depending on your area and style. Also, while knotless braids are gentler, leaving them in too long (over 2 months) can lead to matting or hair stress, so you’ll need to plan regular maintenance. Finally, achieving a flawless knotless look can require a skilled braider; DIY might be tricky for beginners. Overall, if you weigh the ease of styling and health benefits, many find these pros outweigh the cons.
FAQs
How long do medium knotless braids take?
Installation time depends on hair density and braid thickness. Medium knotless braids take about 4–5 hours to install. Experienced stylists can work faster, but plan for several hours.
How many packs of hair for medium knotless braids?
This varies with length and thickness. As a rough guide, shoulder-length medium braids usually need 5–7 packs of pre-stretched braiding hair. For longer (mid-back) medium braids, you might need more. It's smart to buy an extra pack and consult your stylist.
How long do medium knotless braids last?
Medium knotless braids typically stay neat for about 4 to 6 weeks with good care. Some can stretch to 8 weeks, but the general advice is to take them down by 8–10 weeks to prevent breakage. Scalp health and maintenance routines (like sleeping on satin and moisturizing) will affect how long they look fresh.
How many braids are in medium knotless braids?
There's no exact number since it depends on your head size and how fine each section is. Generally, medium braids could be anywhere from 30 to 60 on a full head. (For instance, shoulder-length medium braids might be in the 30s, and finer sets for denser hair could approach 60.) It's truly variable. The key factor is making each braid roughly medium thickness; your stylist will section accordingly.
How much is medium knotless braids?
The cost in a salon usually ranges widely, but as a ballpark, around $150 to $250 is common for medium-length knotless braids. Factors include your location, the salon's pricing, braid length and thickness, and any color or beads added. DIY kits (braiding hair alone) are cheaper, but a pro is recommended for the best result. Always ask your stylist for a price estimate before starting.
Conclusion
Medium knotless braids are a versatile, gorgeous protective hairstyle that flatters African American women of all ages. They allow you to switch up your look – from chic plain braids to colorful ombrés or playful curls – without hurting your scalp. This post covered what makes knotless braids special, the medium-size benefits, dozens of on-trend style ideas (from bob-length beads to bright color combos), and practical tips on installation and care. We hope these ideas excite you to try a new twist on braids. With proper maintenance, your medium knotless braids will stay stunning for weeks, keeping your hair protected and looking fabulous!
Thanks to:
- Knotless Box Braids: Everything You Need to Know, From the Experts
- How Long Do Medium Knotless Braids Last? | Mybraidedwig
- A Guide to Knotless Braids | StyleSeat
- How Many Packs of Hair for Box Braids? | MyBraidedWig
- The 16 Hottest Braid Styles of 2022 … How Much Do They Cost? How Much – BRAIDMASTERS
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