Plus, once you get to the back of your head, you wont be able to see anyway. Some of the links above are affiliate links (all affiliate links will be marked with a star*). Tochterman breaks down the exact way to French braid below. To do double French braids, start by dividing your hair down the center of your head. Congrats! Oh, and did I mention the whole process doubles as an arm workout? Youll be surprised at how powerful your sense of touch is. Then cross the right section over the center section. Great if you want to go to a party, wedding, or even just in public or around the house. All the Weird Areas You Can Get Injectables. It takes a lot of patience to grab small sections, especially if you are new to the French braid. If this happens, you can hold your hair in place with one hand and let the other arm rest for a few seconds. One challenge many French braiders come across is bumps appearing in their sections. "Large braids give a fuller look; small to medium braids are tighter and have less frizz," explains Groover. You Probably Need a Haircut is reader-supported. HOW TO FRENCH BRAID YOUR OWN HAIR (Playlist)https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKr1OU5EnX8ZJgAMy4LnxuGGl8VKh4oQu HOW TO DOUBLE FRENCH BRAID YOUR OWN HAIR FOR BEGINNERShttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2g57cXO-2Q\u0026list=PLKr1OU5EnX8YbBYmW3kHQwehFHT9FAD7a\u0026index=6 HOW TO FRENCH BRAID (SINGLE BRAID 1 way of adding hair in)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6kixAppktE\u0026list=PLKr1OU5EnX8YbBYmW3kHQwehFHT9FAD7a\u0026index=8 HOW TO FRENCH BRAID (SINGLE BRAID 2 way of adding hair in)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HopFCgzKmoA\u0026list=PLKr1OU5EnX8YbBYmW3kHQwehFHT9FAD7a\u0026index=32 HOW TO FRENCH BRAID YOUR OWN HAIR (SINGLE BRAID - REAL-TIME TALK THROUGH)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOz5ujBilWA\u0026list=PLKr1OU5EnX8YbBYmW3kHQwehFHT9FAD7a\u0026index=19 HOW TO DOUBLE FRENCH BRAID STEP BY STEP FOR BEGINNERShttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oV6-2WiRRqs\u0026list=PLKr1OU5EnX8YbBYmW3kHQwehFHT9FAD7a\u0026index=2 M A N N E Q U I N H E A D // (Affiliate Links Below read the disclaimer at the bottom of the infobox) My mannequin head is not available anymore, but I have linked similar dolls below, that I would purchase myself. Then switch hands and rest the other arm. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. When you hold back your hair with a loose French braid, you will spread the weight of your hair across more of your scalp. "Clean, dry hair is best when you are putting it into French braids," Taylor says. Repeat on the other sections of hair. Create a fuller braid with extensions: If you have short hair or simply want a longer, sexier braid, adding clip-in extensions can help give you more length and volume. Start by creating a standard three-strand braid, braiding left over middle, right over the middle. Separate your section into 3 equal strands. Weave the sections of hair under and over each other, just as you would with a standard braid. Each outer piece must be crossed over the inner piece once. ", short or long. Not only will this stop the bottom of your braids from looking straggly, but it will also reduce any chances of your style falling out. Continue braiding so that every time you do a new cross, youre gathering slightly more hair. The initial chunk of hair will not affect how full your French braid will be, so start with a small 3-4 section of hair for best results. Keep them separate. I use my left pointer finger to add a small section of hair to the existing left section . Getting a great French braid starts with sectioning the hair off correctly. Be sure to gently comb through any bumps to keep a sleek look. Vote for your favorite beauty products now. To keep it from looking too messy, pin some of the longer layers into the base of the braid. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Once you're done, finish the braid with the hairspray of your choice "to calm flyaways and keep the shape," says Tochterman. I couldn't do any French braids before, and I can do them now. Method 1 Creating 2 Separate Braids 1 Divide your hair down the center of your head. Nineties pick-and-drop braids walked so today's boho braids could run. , French braiding may be a good alternative for you to try. % of people told us that this article helped them. Hacks & Inspiration from Hair Experts at Unilever. Go messy: "One of my favorite French braid variations is to lightly pull out the sides of each section all the way down the braid," says Metz. Is a French braid formal enough for a wedding? Tochterman advises to grab a brush and bungee. Sign up to the newsletter and get exclusive hair care tips and tricks. For example, you may want to tie off your braid just below the nape of your neck, depending on how long your hair is. Taking a piece of hair around 3-4 inches from just above your temples, divide it into three equal sections. Pro-tip: if you have stray hairs, use a spiral bobby pin to hold them in place. Then, grab a 3-inch section of hair at the crown of your head and divide it into three equal pieces. She is also the founder of Model Citizen, a sustainable fashion company that encourages peer-to-peer clothing sharing and supports emerging designers. The higher the bun, the less sag you will get. Add bobby pins along both braids, making sure they feel tight and secure on the rest of your hair. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Continue adding more to your braid as you move down your head until you reach the nape of your neck. Is it better to braid your hair wet or dry? You Probably Need a Haircut provides general information only. User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and With natural hair, Groover opts for a different technique: "Part the hair down the middle or with a low side part and divide the hair into two sections." I watched about a dozen YouTube videos on how to do it, which you'd think would be a good way. So grab your comb and your hair ties, and lets get braiding: Its best to weave with hair thats a little more lived-in and dirty. Start your French braid with one row of a traditional braid, which you can do by first crossing the right strand into the center, then crossing the left strand into the center. This article has been viewed 7,540,583 times. Brooke Shunatona is a contributing writer for Cosmopolitan.com. Then, grab a small section of hair towards the back of your head to add the left side, and cross it over the center. Continue doing this all the way down your head. Twist your ponytail until it's pulled tight. In this video, you will learn how to french braid your own hair step by step for beginners!TOOLS \u0026 PRODUCTS I USE // (Affiliate Links Below - Disclaimer at the bottom of the infobox)All my recommendations - https://www.everydayhairinspiration.com/recommendations/ GHD Bodyguard Heat Protect Spray - https://amzn.to/3mMRFl5 * Mini Rubber Bands - https://amzn.to/3xwxEkX * Rubber Band Remover - https://amzn.to/3zJilYm* Rat Tail Comb (Use this every day to style my own hair) - https://amzn.to/35uWIwR * Small Mirror (Similar) - https://amzn.to/3d7dW7Z * Topsy Tail set - https://amzn.to/3iKIBLO * Hair Clips (Similar) - https://amzn.to/3gE4xHb* Styling Powder (This is great!!) Approved. "This was so helpful. All of our experts agree that French braids are a great solution for second or third day hair; however curly girls may find more control braiding on . Before you start braiding, you want to make sure there are no tangles in your hair. If you opt for a wet look braid, Tochterman recommends a quarter size of RandCo Motorcycle Flexible Hold Gel. This spray helps keep your style in check all day and tames any wayward frizz. After youve crossed one strip of hair over another strip of hair, youll transfer all the sections to the same fingers on the other hand to keep the flow going. Then take the next strand by grabbing between curled index finger and thumb. All rights reserved. What's The Difference Between a Dutch Braid and a French Braid? a headboard or backrest).You could also temporarily tie it with elastic and give your arms a rest. Your hair will retain more moisture in a French braid. Yes, if you do it correctly. The French braid is an excellent option for beginner braiders. If you place heat on your hair, don't forget to shield your hair with a heat protectant. Boho Braids Are TikTok's Favorite Protective Hairstyle. Then, tie one side up with a hair tie so it's not in your way while you're braiding the other side. If youd like to keep your braids dry, use a shower cap to prevent water from touching them. Tips: Avoid securing your braid with a rubber band. We suggest practicing while youre watching your favorite movie or TV show to get plenty of practice. Tie off the end. As you prepare to repeat your braid, grab a small section of new hair from the area of hair you wish to include in your braid, and incorporate it into the next cross. "This is key when braiding with layers," says Metz, who recommends applying it liberally after the braid is complete.". Then, use your brush to grab the middle section of hair on the top of your head. Your French braid will last all day (or even days!). French braiding is a hair-styling technique that is quite similar to a standard braid; the only difference is adding hair to the sections as you go. After youve gathered all of your hair into the French braid, group the ends together, create three evenly-sized sections, and finish braiding with a standard 3-section braid. Next, she parts her hair down the middle with the tail of a fine-tooth comb, rakes a dollop of moisturizing hair butter through the lengths of her hair, and smooths a bit of styling gel along her roots and part to keep the braid smooth. You start with a small section, but the braid grows thicker as you add more hair. Although its intricate weave may appear complicated, creating your own French braid is a simple process. Hair Stylist & Master Braider. ", Another quick tip: Use a strong hold finishing spray. Before you start braiding, you need to prep your hair. For fine to medium hair, after you brush, Tochterman advises the following: first, taking a section of hair from the forehead to the back of the head. If doing double braids, youll want to start by deciding on your part and sectioning your hair accordingly. Try twisting your strands into a low braided bun for aquick and easy updo, or take inspiration from the image above and rock these playful pigtails. The length of the braid also determines where you will focus on applying product. In this tutorial, YouTuber Abby Smith shows you how to transfer all three sections in one hand to free up the other so you can easily grab your additional small sliver of hair. When there is friction on your hair, it can cause hair damage. French braiding takes a lot more time than more basic hairstyles. French braiding can cause a little strain on your arm muscles, but do your best to pull each section taut and keep a firm grip on your braid. Each time you cross one section over the other, grab a chunk of hair from the same side as the section. Take the right strand and cross it over to the middle. Vanessa Garcia is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. How To French Braid Your Own Hair Step By Step For Complete Beginners - FULL TALK THROUGH EverydayHairInspiration 297K subscribers Subscribe 137K Share 8.7M views 6 years ago French. The good news: You don't have to enlist the help of a talented friend or roommate to achieve the style. Twist the two strands of hair together, feeding in more strands of hair from your parted section as you go along. Sign up to our newsletter and get exclusive hair care tips and tricks from the experts at All Things Hair. But heres where the ~French~ part comes inonce youve started your braid, begin adding a small sliver of hair to each section every time you cross it over the middle. Once you have sectioned off your hair for each braid, work on one side at a time. This Chemical Peel Majorly Healed My Hormonal Acne, I Tried the New Long-Lasting Botox Alternative (!). Finally, mist a little hairspray over the whole look for a more secure hold, or let it hang loose and free. If you have thicker hair, you may need to start with more hair in your 3 sections. Love the look of a French braid but not sure how create the hairstyle yourself? Repeat this 2-3 times. Next, French braid the loose section of your hair starting at the top of your head and working your way down to the ends of your hair. Weather, workout and all-around life-proof, its a look that every woman should have up her sleeve. Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. From here, all you need to do is take up more hair from the surrounding area, pulling it into the braid as you go. Start at the hairline, dividing the sections into two strands. Gather a small section of hair from towards the top of your head (a little from the right side, a little from the left side, and a little from the middle.) French braided hair looks elegant and can be worn casually, professionally, or on a date. You can tie off your hair at any point during your braid. The Fix #18: Braid up a simple three strand braid on one side of your head. Plus, two French braids are an easy style to master and theyre not nearly as intricate as they look. Step 3: Transfer to Right Hand. ATH Investigates, Natural Hair Care Guide and Products to Fight Humidity, ATH Opinion: Why the Nostalgia Trend is Creating an Ongoing Conversation Across Decades, 10 Tapered Haircuts and Short Hairstyles for Men Seen on the Runway, 15 Sweet and Striking Shades of Honey Brown Hair, Understanding Why the Appropriation of Hair Ingredients is Culturally Wrong, 8 Shampoos for Straight Hair that Add Body and Shine. Freshly-washed hair will be harder to braid. They're also a great protective style for natural hair, and suit all face shapes, to boot. Taylor explains that the thicker the sectioning, the thicker and easier the braid will be. The singer reveals how grueling life was on the road. There are a few secrets to crafting the perfect French braid. If You've Never Heard of Knotless Braids, It's Time to Catch Up. French braiding your hair before bed and sleeping on a silk pillowcase is a great technique to prevent tangles in the morning, among, When there is friction on your hair, it can cause hair damage. You can easily keep bangs and flyaways out of your face. ", looked it up, I had to do something with my hair before my performance. How to Create a Chic, Half-Up Braided Style Tutorial Style It On: Braided Prom Updo with Mini Marley Article Natural Hair Tips: Caring for the Crochet Twist and Other Protective Styles with Daven Mayeda Gallery Side Braids: 8 Ways to Wear this Trend Gallery Cute Braid Styles: 10 Super Pretty Pinterest-Worthy Ideas Don't miss out Stay inspired Ndeye Anta Niang is a Hair Stylist, Master Braider, and Founder of AntaBraids, a traveling braiding service based in New York City. 03 of 35. When you're done with the French braid, you can take the extra step of hiding the elastic tie if you want an all-natural look. When French braiding your hair, keep the process of a standard braid and add chunks of hair to each outer section as you layer them over one another. Some people find it easier to feel the sections of hair as they start reaching to the back of their heads. Avoid using rubber bands, as these rip and break hair when you remove them. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. But let's be real: it takes time to master the art of braiding. Take . Ad Choices. Let's chat! Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Clean, dry hair is best when you are putting it into French braids, Taylor says. Create the section in the direction you want to braid. Once you reach the nape of your neck, you should encompass all of your hair into the French braid. Secure your French braid with a hair elastic. If you have layered hair, spray some hairspray onto your fingers and use it to set down any flyaways that may have escaped from your braid. ", Next, "divide the subsection into three small sections and begin the braid at the edges with the tiny short cross movements for a precise finish and style longevity. Most people like to part their hair in the center for two French braids, but I like to keep my side part intact. For best results, use a comb for parting each section, says Metz. Support wikiHow by One hair is added to the right strand, cross the right strand over the middle, and bring all the hair to the right hand. A French braid only has a few extra steps if you already know how to do a standard three-strand braid. 4 Best French-Braid Tutorial For Curly Hair. For consistent waves, keep filled with water nearby and continue to lightly dampen the hair as you braid. (Tip: If the right and left are confusing, just think about outer and inner pieces. It doesn't matter which side you add new hair from. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. To do a fishtail braid, divide your hair into 2 sections and bring one strand of hair over one section and into the other. Enjoy! Start at the top of your head, next to the part, and grab a small section of hair. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. Let layers in front of your ears fall out of the braid on their own, says Hawkins. Luckily, we will give you plenty of tips for French braiding your own hair so you can start styling it. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. If you'd like, you can tuck the ends of each braid under the opposite braid to create a hair "crown." Can I learn to French braid my own hair if I can French braid my friend's hair? You may want to use the long end of a rat tail comb to make a clean part. Whatever you do, do NOT brush or comb it as soon as you take the band out. Step Three: Braiding. Yes, you can shower with French braids. Before you attempt to start, heed this advice from style and hair expert Hannah Metz of Hannah Elisabeth Beauty: Start with dry hair. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Secure your French braid with a hair elastic. Brush Hair: Smooth out any knots or tangles. You will likely run out of hair near the ear on the other side of your head. Step 3: Holding the center and right sections in my right hand and the left section in my left hand, I cross the right section over the center. Though it will likely not be the look youre going for, it will help you get the movement down. Meet Our Expert: Hannah Metz, hair and style expert with Hannah Elisabeth Beauty. You can finish up the rest of your braid using the three-strand method again. As you continue to practice your new hairstyle, keep these additional tips for French braiding your own hair in mind. Thank you, wikiHow. This article was co-authored by Vanessa Garcia and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger. The French braid is a slightly elevated version of your classic three-strand braid that looks just a little bit more put together; its the kind of hairstyle that you can wear for two or three days straight and it wont budge. We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. If you suffer from ponytail headaches, French braiding may be a good alternative for you to try. Secure with an elastic if needed, or simply curl the ends to prevent them from unraveling. From here, there are two options to finish the braid. As you French braid your hair, focus on the feelings in your fingers rather than relying on what youre looking at. Our content is for informational purposes only. HelloGiggles.com is part of the Dotdash Meredith Beauty & Style Group. My technique: grab the original strand between index finger and curled middle finger. And they expand like classic elastic bands; however, each end has a hook to secure hair without pulling on it, making it beneficial to those with coarse or thick hair. All Rights Reserved. Take the band out and gently pull on the outer edges to loosen it. STEP 4: ADD HAIR AS YOU GO. You did it, boo. The first ending . This article received 22 testimonials and 94% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. 6. If you French braid your hair wet, you will have wavy hair once you take it out. So if youre looking for another heatless way to style your hair, and a French braid has been on your unofficial bucket list forever, try following one of these YouTube tutorials, below. All About Wavy Perm for Long Hair and 10 Styles to Try this Season, 33 Flattering Haircuts and Hairstyles for Round Faces, 10 Auburn Hair with Blonde Highlights to Elevate Your Look, 13 Boho Box Braids and Twist Styles to Give You Wanderlust Vibes, 20 Shades of Brown Hair and How to Pick the Best for Your Skin Tone, Is Rice Water Good for Hair Growth? The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. "To make sure that your hair has some texture and hold to it, avoid thick conditionersespecially those with silicone in themthat make strands slippery," Hawkins says. Begin the braid where you'd do a deep side part. Since it's difficult to see what your hands are doing behind your head, things can easily get, quite literally, tangled up back there. While were all stuck at home and probably overdue for a haircut, now is the perfect time to learn. This article has 56 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. I give my whole head a good, thorough brush with my Tangle Teezer before taking a fine-tooth comb and running it horizontally down the back of my head.