How To Do French Braids On Yourself: The Easiest Tutorial You’ll Ever Follow!

French braids, also known as Dutch braids, are a timeless and elegant hairstyle that can elevate any look. While they may seem intimidating at first, with a little practice and the right technique, you can easily master the art of braiding French braids on yourself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from preparing your hair to securing the braid, so you can achieve salon-worthy results at home.

Preparing Your Hair

• Detangle and Brush: Begin by thoroughly brushing your hair to remove any knots or tangles. This will make the braiding process smoother and prevent breakage.
• Apply Hairspray: Lightly mist your hair with hairspray to provide hold and prevent flyaways.
• Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into three equal sections: left, center, and right. Secure the two side sections with hair clips or elastics to keep them out of the way.

Braiding Technique

Step 1: Start with a Small Section

• Take a small section of hair from the center section and divide it into three smaller strands: left, center, and right.

Step 2: Cross the Left Strand Over the Center

• Take the left strand and cross it over the center strand.

Step 3: Cross the Right Strand Over the New Center

• Take the right strand and cross it over the new center strand, which is now the left strand.

Step 4: Add Hair from the Left Side

• Take a small section of hair from the left side and add it to the left strand.

Step 5: Cross the Left Strand Over the Center

• Cross the left strand (now with added hair) over the center strand.

Step 6: Cross the Right Strand Over the New Center

• Cross the right strand over the new center strand, which is now the left strand.

Step 7: Repeat Steps 4-6

• Continue adding hair from the left and right sides and crossing the strands as described in Steps 4-6.

Step 8: Secure the Braid

• Once you reach the end of your hair, braid the remaining three strands together and secure them with an elastic band.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue: Loose or Uneven Braid

• Ensure you are pulling the strands tightly enough as you cross them.
• Use a fine-toothed comb to smooth out any uneven sections.

Issue: Flyaways or Frizz

• Use a smoothing serum or hairspray to tame flyaways.
• Braid your hair when it is slightly damp to reduce frizz.

Issue: Braid Not Staying in Place

• Use bobby pins to secure the braid at the sides or nape of your neck.
• Apply hairspray liberally to hold the braid in place.

Creative Variations

Fishtail Braid: Interlace small sections of hair from the outer strands instead of crossing them over.

Inverted French Braid: Braid the strands under instead of over to create a different look.

Half-Up French Braid: Braid the top half of your hair and leave the bottom half loose.

Finishing Touches

Pull Out Strands: Gently pull out a few strands from the sides of the braid to add volume and texture.

Set with Hairspray: Finish by misting your hair with hairspray to hold the style in place.

Conclusion: Unlock Your Braiding Potential

With patience and practice, you can master the art of doing French braids on yourself. This versatile hairstyle can add a touch of elegance to any occasion, from casual outings to special events. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and techniques until you find the perfect look for you.

FAQ

Q: How often should I wash my hair before braiding it?
A: It is best to wash your hair the day before braiding to ensure it is clean and less likely to slip out.

Q: Can I braid French braids on wet hair?
A: It is not recommended to braid French braids on wet hair as it can stretch and weaken the hair.

Q: How do I keep my French braids looking neat for longer?
A: Use hairspray, bobby pins, and a fine-toothed comb to secure the braid and smooth out any flyaways.