Aftercare
How to Stop Boho Braids from Matting: The UK Guide to Human Bulk Hair vs Synthetic Curls
Why synthetic curly leave-outs tangle within days, why UK stylists recommend human bulk hair for boho braids, how much to buy, a daily routine and an honest comparison.
21 October 2026 · 5 min read
Why synthetic curls mat so quickly
Boho braids look effortless on day one, but the loose curly pieces left out of each braid are the part that suffers. Synthetic Deep Wave and Water Wave fibres rub against each other, your clothes and your pillow, and the fine strands knot together. Because synthetic fibre does not respond to conditioner the way hair does, those knots are hard to undo, and within a week or two the curls can become a matted, frizzy layer. That is why many UK stylists now recommend 100% virgin or raw human bulk hair for the curly pieces, while synthetic hair is still often used for the braid itself.
How much human bulk hair to buy
- Most boho braid styles need roughly 1 to 2 bundles of human bulk hair, about 100g to 200g. Shop Deep Wave human bulk braiding hair on Amazon UK (opens in a new tab).
- Around 100g: a lighter, scattered boho look, shorter lengths or larger braids.
- Around 150–200g: a fuller curly finish, waist length and longer, or smaller braids with more curls per braid.
- Ask your stylist for the curl pattern, length and grams they want before you order. Human bulk hair is the most expensive part of the style, so buying the right amount matters.
The daily routine that keeps curls soft
- Mist daily: fill a spray bottle with water and a little leave-in conditioner and lightly dampen the curls. Never soak the braids at the root.
- Define with an alcohol-free foaming mousse such as Lottabody Wrap Me (opens in a new tab): scrunch a small amount through damp curls to clump them. Alcohol-heavy products dry curls out and speed up tangling.
- Separate gently: finger-detangle any curls that have started to join, working from the ends upwards. Avoid brushes and fine-tooth combs on the curls.
- Sleep in satin: tie braids into a loose high bun or pineapple and cover with a satin bonnet or scarf, or use a satin pillowcase. Cotton creates friction and pulls moisture out.
- Hands off: the more the curls are touched through the day, the faster they frizz.
Curly hair options compared
How the four common choices for boho curls compare. Lifespans are typical with good care and will vary with your routine, climate and the exact hair.
| Hair | Matting risk | Typical curl lifespan | Care needs | Reusable? | Relative cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100% Virgin Human Bulk (Deep Wave / Water Wave) (opens in a new tab) | Low with daily care | Often 6–8 weeks | Mist, mousse, satin at night | Often, if well kept | ££–£££ |
| Raw Indian / Burmese Bulk (opens in a new tab) | Low | Often 6–8 weeks, sometimes longer | Gentle; responds well to conditioner | Often, for several installs | £££ |
| Premium Synthetic Curls | High | Often around 2 weeks before frizz | Light mist only; trim frizzy ends | Rarely | £ |
| Human Hair Blend | Medium | In between synthetic and human hair | As human hair, but heat and tangling depend on the blend | Sometimes | £–££ |
Common questions
- Can I go swimming with boho braids?
- You can, but chlorine and salt water dry curls out and speed up matting, especially with synthetic hair. Wear a swim cap if you can, rinse with fresh water straight after, apply leave-in conditioner to the curls, and make sure the braids dry fully at the root to avoid damp, smelly braids.
- How do I wash boho braids with curly leave-outs?
- Every one to two weeks, dilute a gentle shampoo in water and apply it to your scalp, then rinse by letting water run down the braids. Condition the curls only, rinse and air-dry or use a cool hood dryer until the roots are completely dry. Do not rub the curls with a towel; squeeze with a microfibre towel or T-shirt instead.
- How long will the curls last?
- With human bulk hair and a good routine, curls often stay soft for 6 to 8 weeks. Synthetic curls often start to frizz and mat after around 2 weeks. Some clients ask their stylist to refresh or replace the curly pieces part way through.
- Should I bring my own human bulk hair?
- Check the service listing. Many boho braid prices include braiding hair but not human bulk hair, which is usually bought separately. Ask your stylist for the exact grams, length and curl pattern before you order.
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