Goddess Braids Are the Protective Style You're Going to See Everywhere This Summer

With so many braiding styles to choose from these days, it's hard to figure out which style you want to go with. But believe us: Goddess braids are one look you absolutely won't regret.

Geneva Fowler, lead braid stylist at BEAUTYBEEZ explains that goddess braids are simply box braids with curly strands added to the end or throughout the braids. Just imagine long flowing beach wave extensions mixed with regular box braids, and you've got the picture.

To learn more, we asked Fowler to give us the low down on everything you need to know before getting goddess braids. Here are all her tips.

What Are Some of the Pros of Goddess Braids?

Let's be honest, long flowing curls add ultimate glamor to any look, not to mention when they're mixed in with box braids. So if you're looking to add something extra to your protective style, goddess braids are the answer. "Goddess braids are a great protective style because they are super cute, versatile, and they last for about four to eight weeks, so they're a great low-maintenance option," says Fowler.

How Long Does It Take to Install Goddess Braids?

If you've had box braids before, you'll know that they take a while to install, but the results are totally worth it. Depending on the size and length of your goddess braids, they can take anywhere from four to eight hours to finish, so make sure you have a good book or a long playlist with you.

What's the Best Way to Prepare Your Natural Hair for Goddess Braids?

The number one rule before getting any protective style is to make sure your hair is clean. Shampooing your hair before installing goddess braids is important and can help prevent an itchy scalp. Next, Fowler recommends a deep conditioning treatment. "Conditioning the hair and scalp helps to ensure they are healthy and ready for the installation," says the hairstylist. "Following your conditioning treatment, I recommend blow-drying your hair straight to make installing the goddess braids easier for your braider."

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What's The Best Way to Care For Goddess Braids?

If you want your braids to last at least four weeks, you're going to need to give them a little TLC. Fowler recommends applying Shine N' Jam Foam once a week to help refresh the braids. You also want to make sure you are taking care of your scalp. "I recommend using a gentle cleanser to keep your scalp clean and healthy," says the hairstylist.

What's the Best Way to Wash Goddess Braids?

Washing goddess braids is not as hard as it might seem, just make sure you take your time. "Start by applying shampoo to your hair and gently scrub your scalp with your fingertips," says Fowler. "Let the shampoo run through your braids naturally, then rinse your hair with cold water. After washing, wrap your braids in a scarf to make sure your natural hair lays flat and as neat as possible."

How Do You Know When It's Time to Remove Goddess Braids?

"You'll know that it's time to take out your goddess braids when they begin to look too worn in," says Fowler. I personally take them out when the curly goddess hair starts to get ratty or my scalp gets too itchy and uncomfortable."

What's the Best Way to Remove Goddess Braids?

To remove the goddess braids, cut the plait about an inch below where your natural hair ends. "The blunt cut will make the braids unravel faster and you will end up with less hair to unbraid especially if you had super long braids installed," says Fowler.

How Much Do Goddess Braids Typically Cost to Install?

The price you pay for goddess braids really depends on the length you get and your location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $150 to $300.