{"source":"braidz-iq","type":"answer_cards","count":29,"items":[{"slug":"how-braiders-are-charged-and-tier-plans","question":"How are braiders charged on Braidz IQ, and what are the tier plans?","short_answer":"Braiders choose a monthly plan (Free, Pro $29/mo, or Elite $79/mo) and pay a small platform fee only when Braidz IQ introduces a brand-new client. Customers pay braiders directly; Braidz IQ never holds the service payment.","category":"platform","tags":["pricing","braider","subscription","fees","plans","billing"],"published_at":"2026-06-27T01:59:42.755348+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-27T01:59:42.755348+00:00","url":"/answers/how-braiders-are-charged-and-tier-plans"},{"slug":"how-much-do-box-braids-cost","question":"How much do box braids cost?","short_answer":"Box braids typically cost 150 to 450 USD in the US. Price depends on braid size, length, your city, and the braider's experience tier — knotless and waist-length installs trend higher.","category":"pricing","tags":["pricing","box-braids","cost","budget"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-much-do-box-braids-cost"},{"slug":"how-long-do-knotless-braids-take","question":"How long do knotless braids take to install?","short_answer":"Knotless braids take 6 to 10 hours on average — small braids and longer lengths trend higher, jumbo or shoulder-length installs trend lower.","category":"styles","tags":["styles","knotless","install","duration"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-long-do-knotless-braids-take"},{"slug":"how-to-find-a-good-braider-near-me","question":"How do I find a good braider near me?","short_answer":"Search your city on Braidz IQ, filter by the style you want, and rank by match score — which combines style fit, signature work, proximity, availability, and review quality.","category":"discovery","tags":["discovery","search","how-to","client"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-find-a-good-braider-near-me"},{"slug":"how-much-hair-do-i-need-for-box-braids","question":"How much hair do I need for box braids?","short_answer":"Most box braid installs need 6 to 10 packs of braiding hair. Smaller braids, longer lengths, and thicker natural hair push you toward the higher end.","category":"prep","tags":["prep","hair","quantity","box-braids"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-much-hair-do-i-need-for-box-braids"},{"slug":"what-is-the-difference-between-knotless-and-box-braids","question":"What is the difference between knotless and box braids?","short_answer":"Box braids start with a small knot at the scalp; knotless braids feed in extension hair gradually so there's no knot. Knotless are flatter, lighter, and gentler on the hairline.","category":"styles","tags":["styles","comparison","box-braids","knotless"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/what-is-the-difference-between-knotless-and-box-braids"},{"slug":"how-long-do-box-braids-last","question":"How long do box braids last?","short_answer":"Box braids last 6 to 8 weeks on average. With diligent night-time care and weekly washes, knotted installs can stretch to 10 weeks before takedown is recommended.","category":"care","tags":["care","box-braids","lifespan","longevity"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-long-do-box-braids-last"},{"slug":"how-to-wash-braids","question":"How do you wash braids without frizz?","short_answer":"Dilute sulfate-free shampoo in a squeeze bottle, apply only to the scalp, rinse in the direction of the braids with cool water, and dry under low heat until fully dry to prevent frizz.","category":"care","tags":["care","washing","frizz","how-to"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-wash-braids"},{"slug":"how-to-sleep-with-braids","question":"How should you sleep with braids?","short_answer":"Always sleep in a satin or silk bonnet or on a satin pillowcase. For long braids, loosely loop them on top of your head or in a low pineapple to avoid root tension.","category":"care","tags":["care","sleep","night-routine","maintenance"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-sleep-with-braids"},{"slug":"do-braids-damage-your-hair","question":"Do braids damage your hair?","short_answer":"Braids don't damage hair on their own — installation tension, neglected aftercare, and back-to-back installs do. Properly installed and cared-for braids are a true protective style.","category":"care","tags":["care","damage","protective-style","health"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/do-braids-damage-your-hair"},{"slug":"what-is-the-best-braiding-hair","question":"What is the best hair for braids?","short_answer":"For most box and knotless braids, pre-stretched Kanekalon (Xpression, Outre, RastAfri) is the industry standard. For boho or goddess styles, use a water-wave human-blend curly hair.","category":"prep","tags":["prep","hair","brands","kanekalon"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/what-is-the-best-braiding-hair"},{"slug":"how-to-prep-hair-for-braids","question":"How do I prep my hair for braids?","short_answer":"Wash, deep-condition, and blow-dry your hair stretched within 24 to 48 hours of your appointment. Skip heavy oils and butters the day of — clean, detangled, fully dry hair is the goal.","category":"prep","tags":["prep","hair","how-to","appointment"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-prep-hair-for-braids"},{"slug":"what-are-knotless-braids","question":"What are knotless braids?","short_answer":"Knotless braids are a feed-in box braid style with no visible knot at the root — the braider gradually adds extension hair as they braid, creating a flatter, gentler look.","category":"styles","tags":["styles","knotless","box-braids","protective-style"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/what-are-knotless-braids"},{"slug":"what-are-boho-braids","question":"What are boho braids?","short_answer":"Boho braids are knotless braids with curly hair left out along the length of each braid, creating a soft, beachy, free-spirited look.","category":"styles","tags":["styles","boho","knotless","goddess-braids"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/what-are-boho-braids"},{"slug":"what-are-fulani-braids","question":"What are Fulani braids?","short_answer":"Fulani braids are a traditional West African style featuring a center cornrow, side braids that curve along the hairline, and braided accessories like beads and cuffs.","category":"styles","tags":["styles","fulani","traditional","cornrows"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/what-are-fulani-braids"},{"slug":"how-to-tip-a-braider","question":"How much should I tip a braider?","short_answer":"Tipping a braider 15 to 25% of the service price is standard in the US. Tip in cash when you can, and always tip extra for long sessions, custom designs, or working through your meal break.","category":"etiquette","tags":["etiquette","tipping","client","cost"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-tip-a-braider"},{"slug":"what-to-bring-to-a-braiding-appointment","question":"What should I bring to a braiding appointment?","short_answer":"Bring your braiding hair (confirm the brand and pack count), water and snacks, a portable charger, headphones, a satin scarf, and a loose button-up top to wear home.","category":"etiquette","tags":["etiquette","appointment","checklist","prep"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/what-to-bring-to-a-braiding-appointment"},{"slug":"how-to-relieve-tight-braids","question":"How do I relieve tight braids?","short_answer":"If braids feel painful within 24 hours, mist roots with water and leave-in spray, gently massage the scalp, and sleep with a loose satin scarf. If pain or bumps persist past 48 hours, ask your braider to loosen the worst braids.","category":"care","tags":["care","tension","pain","symptoms"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-relieve-tight-braids"},{"slug":"can-i-wash-braids-the-first-week","question":"Can I wash my braids in the first week?","short_answer":"It's safer to wait 5 to 7 days before the first wash so the braids set. After that, wash every 1 to 2 weeks with diluted shampoo applied directly to the scalp.","category":"care","tags":["care","washing","first-week","maintenance"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/can-i-wash-braids-the-first-week"},{"slug":"how-to-refresh-old-braids","question":"How do I refresh old braids?","short_answer":"Refresh tired braids by washing the scalp, redoing the front 2 to 3 braids and edges, dipping the ends in hot water, and finishing with a light oil and edge gel.","category":"care","tags":["care","refresh","maintenance","how-to"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-refresh-old-braids"},{"slug":"what-is-a-protective-style","question":"What is a protective style?","short_answer":"A protective style tucks away the fragile ends of your hair to reduce breakage, manipulation, and weather exposure — letting your hair retain length. Braids, twists, locs, wigs, and sew-ins are all protective styles when installed and worn correctly.","category":"education","tags":["education","protective-style","health","fundamentals"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/what-is-a-protective-style"},{"slug":"how-to-take-down-braids","question":"How do I take down braids without breakage?","short_answer":"Detangle braids one at a time with a wide-tooth comb, conditioner, and patience. Work from the ends to the roots, never rip, and deep-condition before re-washing.","category":"care","tags":["care","takedown","breakage","how-to"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-take-down-braids"},{"slug":"how-to-become-a-professional-braider","question":"How do I become a professional braider?","short_answer":"Train under a working braider or accredited braiding school, build a 20+ photo portfolio, comply with your state's licensing rules, and set up bookings, deposits, and policies before opening to clients.","category":"braider","tags":["braider","career","training","business"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-become-a-professional-braider"},{"slug":"do-braiders-need-a-license","question":"Do braiders need a license?","short_answer":"Licensing rules vary by US state. Some require a full cosmetology license, others a natural-hair stylist certificate, and a growing number (including California, Texas, and Florida for natural hairstyling) have no license requirement.","category":"braider","tags":["braider","legal","licensing","regulation"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/do-braiders-need-a-license"},{"slug":"how-to-price-braiding-services","question":"How should I price my braiding services?","short_answer":"Price by total install time times your target hourly rate, plus materials, plus a complexity premium. Most established braiders charge 40 to 90 USD per hour effective rate; signature styles and waist-length installs carry a 15 to 30% premium.","category":"braider","tags":["braider","pricing","business","rates"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-price-braiding-services"},{"slug":"what-is-braidz-iq","question":"What is Braidz IQ?","short_answer":"Braidz IQ is the trusted marketplace that matches you with verified professional hair braiders and gives you AI-powered braid care from booking through takedown.","category":"platform","tags":["platform","about","marketplace","overview"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/what-is-braidz-iq"},{"slug":"is-braidz-iq-free","question":"Is Braidz IQ free to use?","short_answer":"Yes — Braidz IQ is free for clients. You only pay your braider's service price plus a small platform fee on the deposit when you book.","category":"platform","tags":["pricing","platform","fees","free"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/is-braidz-iq-free"},{"slug":"how-does-braidz-iq-verify-braiders","question":"How does Braidz IQ verify braiders?","short_answer":"Every braider on Braidz IQ completes a 5-step onboarding with ID check, portfolio review, location verification, and policy disclosure before they can accept bookings.","category":"platform","tags":["trust","verification","safety","platform"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-does-braidz-iq-verify-braiders"},{"slug":"how-to-cancel-a-booking","question":"How do I cancel a booking?","short_answer":"Open the booking in the Bookings tab and tap Cancel. If you cancel outside the braider's free-cancel window, the deposit is forfeited per their stated policy.","category":"platform","tags":["platform","bookings","cancellation","refund"],"published_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","updated_at":"2026-06-26T23:12:30.694114+00:00","url":"/answers/how-to-cancel-a-booking"}]}