Building the World's Most Trusted Resource for Professional Braiders

 

Welcome to The Braider's Journal™: Building the World's Most Trusted Resource for Professional Braiders

"Every braid tells a story. Every braider leaves a legacy."

Welcome to The Braider's Journal™.

If you've found your way here, chances are you're looking for more than another hairstyle tutorial. Maybe you're searching for a new technique, trying to grow your business, exploring the history of braiding, or dreaming of turning your passion into a profession.

Whatever brought you here, I'm glad you're here.

I'm Ethena Profit, professionally known as The Tree Braid Boss™, and I've been teaching and installing Tree Braids since 2006. Over the years, I've trained aspiring braiders, worked with clients from many backgrounds, built businesses around braiding in Atlanta, Orlando, Charlotte, Columbia SC, Washington DC. Las Vegas, Phoenix, Los Angeles and traveled to West Africa to deepen my understanding of the traditions and communities that have shaped this beautiful art form.

One thing became clear to me: our profession deserves a true educational home.

There are countless social media posts, short videos, and hairstyle trends online, but much of that information disappears as quickly as it arrives. Professional braiders deserve something more lasting—a place where knowledge is organized, history is respected, techniques are preserved, and careers are built.

That's why I created The Braider's Journal™.

More Than a Beauty Blog

The Braider's Journal™ is not simply a beauty blog.

It is an educational library created to serve professional braiders around the world.

Here you'll find articles about:

• Tree Braids and protective styling

• Braiding techniques and best practices

• Hair care and product education

• The history and cultural significance of braiding

• Building a successful braiding business

• Professional certification and continuing education

• Entrepreneurship and leadership

• Braiding traditions from Africa and across the diaspora

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced stylist, my goal is to provide reliable, practical information that helps you grow with confidence.

Learning Beyond the Chair

Some of the most meaningful lessons in my career have come from stepping outside the salon.

My travels through Ghana and my work and relationships in The Gambia have given me opportunities to observe braiding traditions, meet talented professionals, and better appreciate the cultural roots of our craft. Those experiences continue to shape how I teach, how I learn, and how I think about the future of braiding.

As this journal grows, I'll share those experiences where they add value—not simply as travel stories, but as lessons about craftsmanship, culture, entrepreneurship, and the people who keep these traditions alive.

Preserving the Legacy of Tree Braids™

Tree Braids have been a defining part of my professional journey.

For decades, I've watched techniques evolve, trends come and go, and misinformation spread. One of my personal missions is to help preserve the artistry, professionalism, and integrity of REAL Tree Braids™ through education.

This journal is one way I'm working to ensure that future generations of braiders have access to trusted, well-organized knowledge.

A Global Community

The future of braiding is bigger than any one salon or city.

Through I Do Braids Academy™, The Tree Braid Network™, and Strands of Beauty™, my vision is to connect professional braiders across the United States, Africa, and eventually the world.

Our mission is ambitious:

To empower and certify 10,000 professional braiders worldwide through education, certification, community, and opportunity while preserving the artistry and cultural legacy of braiding.

Every article we publish moves us one step closer to that goal.

Join the Journey

Whether you're here to master Tree Braids, improve your skills, grow your business, or reconnect with the rich history of braiding, I invite you to become part of this community.

Explore the articles, continue learning, and share your own journey along the way.

Because together, we're doing more than creating beautiful hairstyles.

We're preserving a legacy, building careers, and shaping the future of professional braiding.

Welcome to The Braider's Journal™.

The journey is just beginning.

Continue Your Journey

Ready to take the next step?

• Join I Do Braids Academy™ to learn professional Tree Braid techniques and earn certification.

• Become part of The Tree Braid Network™ to connect with braiders, opportunities, and a growing professional community.

• Explore Strands of Beauty™ Hair for products developed with professional braiders in mind.

Thank you for being here. I can't wait to build this global community with you.

Taraji P Henson's Box Braids Were Out of the Box on The Tonight Show.

During her 14th appearance on The Tonight Show, our beloved Taraji P Henson rocked an intricate assortment of box braids during her internet with Jimmy Fallon. She made a funny mention about how how " Black women need a warning before wetting their hair".  On the show, she spent a considerable amount of time on her first love, which is hair. 

Photo: Allure

Watch the full Interview here

Her ultra-affordable hairline, TPHbyTaraji, created by her during the COVID 19 Pandemic, is focused on one thing and one thing only: healthy hair.   Before winning the Golden Globe or before we came to love her in roles such as Cookie Lyon in Empire, Katherine Jonson in Hidden Figures and Shut in Hustle & Flow  Taraji has always had a love for hair. 

According to Allure magazine, the actor stated,"I was in a salon every week getting a different hairstyle. I understood hair, and I started doing my own at a really young age. I got my first Marcel curling iron and a hot stove when I was in ninth grade. I remember getting my hair done without my mother’s permission; up until then, she was doing my hair in the kitchen. But I went off one day and got it all chopped off."

She has always had a love for hair.  In college, she would do wet sets for $20. That was what she called " her little side hustle". Once she began the acting business, she started wearing weaves in order to protect her hair, but she didn't really like them at first. "I'd heard so many horror stories about people losing their edges and the wear and tear [weaves put] on their hair. When I had to wear my hair straight for movies, it became stressful to keep straightening and putting heat on it to match whatever scene I was in. So I started weaving my hair.

Wearing a multicolored checkered dress, she promoted her new StagePlay, Jaja's African Hair Braiding on stage at the Samuel J Friedman Theater in New York. While her dress was unique, so were here below the waist box braids. She wore them with a braided side bang and a full ponytail.  Her look was stunning and fun. She was a total braided beauty. 

Braids are always a hit. They are classy and elegant. They are the go-to for the red carpet, the beach, the boardroom and so many places in between.  When looking for the best place to get these and other braid styles done.  Take a look around the web pages and do a deep dive into the stylist you are considering when getting these types of braided styles. Strands of Beauty provides box braids and other protective styles to help you on your hair journey.  

Box Braids - All the Ins and Outs

 All the Ins and Outs of Box Braids

- Ethena Profit

In the realm of defensive styles, there's one that has been worn in the media for no less than thirty years—we're discussing box braids!. Janet Jackson unquestionably assumed a part in promoting the style statewide with her introduction film Poetic Justice in 1993. 

All the more as mainstream big names like Beyoncé and Solange have worn the style, just as Gabrielle Union, Zoe Kravitz, Tia Mowry and numerous others. However, box braids along with a plethora of other plaited styles started in Africa as far back as 3500 B.C. Furthermore, in case you're a genuine history buff, you may be satisfied to hear that specialists say the braided interlaces of today are not too different from those worn by individuals of Namibia and the Nile Valley many moon ago. 

Keep reading because we've gathered key information you need to help plan your hair appointment at Strands of Beauty, along with master tips from many trusted master braiders (also known as a hair subject matter expert 15+ yrs experience). Here is what you need to know to prepare:

👤 Meet The Experts:

   

     Ethena Profit: Master Braider with more than100k hours of braiding and over 50k hours of instructing braiders.  Owner of Strands of Beauty, Strands of Beauty Institute of Braiding and Beauty Business Development, The Braid Boss Podcast and The Greatness International Hair & Beauty Expo. Her time is divided between her salons and beauty schools in Atlanta, Phoenix, and Las Vegas. 

Kisha L: Master Braider with more than 35 years experience in braids, color, cutting, weaves, extensions, and instructing.  Owner of Kreations by Kisha and regional manager of Strands of Beauty South. 

WHY BOX BRAIDS?

    Anyone heard of "long hair don't care"?  Box braids give that long hair, cute & urban vibe.  They are healthy, affordable, and long lasting. The best part of the why, is longevity.  You can easily get a good 3+ months wear out of box braids, depending on the size.  

WHAT ARE BOX BRAIDS?

For the newbies, box braids are constructed using three strands of hair braided off the scalp.   While not all box braids are equal, the construction of the braid is basically the same.  What's more, not at all like cornrows, box braids are braided off the scalp—hair is divided into correctly molded squares, arches, or triangle, or free part also called "boxes". The braid is started on the scalp, incorporating the client's natural hair and braiding hair.  Then the combination of the hairs are braided until the end of the length the extension.  o you can shake your detached plaits however much you might want. 

Kanekalon, Spectra, Toyokalon and other engineered fibers are primarily used in most box braid styles.  Interestingly, human hair can also be used for a more natural look, however it is not the most popular or affordable option. 

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRADITIONAL BOX AND KNOTLESS BOX BRAIDS?

Well, well, well, the famous question:  What is the difference and why the price difference?

First, the main difference is in the way the completed style looks.  Knotless box braids will give a flat look as if your natural hair has been braided without extensions.  Knotless box braids are started with natural hair only, then the extension hair is added as the braid is created. Traditional box braids give a fuller look because the box is started with the extension hair.  

They are both healthy options.  This choice is simply a personal preference.  Knotless Box braids tend to cost more because they require more skill and more hair to create the style properly.  Traditional box braids will give a bit more longevity because the extension hair tends to cover new growth better.   

HOW TO CHOOSE THE LENGTH AND STYLE

The hardest part about getting box braids is deciding on the size and length.  Kisha recommends, "when setting an appointment it is best to have a picture of the braids you want as a point of reference. Knowing the size and length you want prior to your appointment allows the salon to prep for your desired look. "

Always consider your lifestyle and the reason for getting box braids.  If you are planning on a cruise or beach vacation, ask yourself,  "if you want a ponytail or bob"? On the other hand if you know you are the team mom and will be super busy, even to the point of only have 4 hours or less for your hair appointment, then a larger, mid back length will be the way to go.   

Beside considering the environment you'll be in, Ethena reminds us to think about the strength of your hair.  Be honest with yourself and your expectations.  If your hair is thin or you any hair loss issues/concerns, consider a larger shorter braid. Braids help your hair grow and you should always focus on the health of your hair.  If you have any hair issue, I recommend that you choose a medium size box ( two finger tips or larger) and avoid micros. 

DOES IT HURT?

The saying that beauty is pain is a myth.  Braids should never "hurt".  Yes, you may feel some discomfort, but you should never be in pain.  Anytime you fee serious pain you may be at risk for the infamous traction alopecia.  This occurs if the braids are too tight or if braids are repeatedly placed in the the same pattern over many many months.  It is best to talk to your braider and say when something feels too discomforting.  

At Strands of Beauty, our motto is " we do it right and not tight".  That means, that we listen to the client and adjust grip according to the comfort of the client. 

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

The length of time you will be in the chair depends on several factors:

1. The speed of the braider
2. Style you choose ( length & size)
3. How many breaks are taken throughout the service
4. Type of hair used

"I'm JUST BEING HONEST" (said in my best Andre3000 voice):  Please, if you choose a long, small, micro, ect box braids be prepared to sit for 8+ hours. Also keep in mind that the smaller they are, the longer the last. In essence the longer you sit, the longer they last. 😉

The standard time for medium, mid back length traditional box braids is 6 hours. 

HOW DO I CARE FOR BOX BRAIDS?

Box braids are best cared for with a leave in conditioning spray, a consistent night regime and scalp care. It is most important to keep the scalp healthy and moisturized when wearing this style.  

Using a growth oil for the scalp and braids are the best way to maintain a smooth look.  Each night, place the braids in a ponytail, moisturize, and place in a braid bonnet. 

How to: Braidless Sew-in

More Hair Options For You