How To French Braid Up The Back Of Your Head: A Step-by-step Guide
What To Know
- This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps on how to French braid up the back of your head, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure a flawless result.
- As you cross the strands, pick up a small section of hair from the side and add it to the outside strand before crossing it over.
- Once you reach the nape of your neck, tie off the end of the braid with a hair tie or elastic band.
French braids are a timeless and elegant hairstyle that can elevate any look. While they may seem intimidating at first, with a little practice, you’ll be able to master this classic braid in no time. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps on how to French braid up the back of your head, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure a flawless result.
Gather Your Tools
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- Brush or comb
- Hairspray (optional)
- Bobby pins (optional)
Prepare Your Hair
1. Brush your hair: Thoroughly brush your hair to remove any tangles or knots.
2. Section your hair: Create a clean part from the center of your forehead to the nape of your neck. Divide your hair into two sections, securing one side with a clip or hair tie.
Start the French Braid
1. Take a small section: From the top of the parted section, take a small portion of hair, about the width of two fingers.
2. Divide into three strands: Divide the small section into three equal strands.
3. Cross the right strand over the middle: Take the right strand and cross it over the middle strand, placing it in the middle position.
4. Cross the left strand over the new middle: Repeat the same process with the left strand, crossing it over the new middle strand.
Continue Braiding
1. Add hair from the side: As you cross the strands, pick up a small section of hair from the side and add it to the outside strand before crossing it over.
2. Repeat: Continue alternating between crossing the right and left strands while adding hair from the sides.
3. Tighten the braid: Gently tighten the braid as you go to create a secure and even hold.
Braid to the Nape of Your Neck
1. Continue braiding: Repeat the steps above until you reach the nape of your neck.
2. Secure the braid: Once you reach the nape of your neck, tie off the end of the braid with a hair tie or elastic band.
Finish the Braid
1. Loosen the braid (optional): If desired, gently pull on the sides of the braid to loosen it and create a more voluminous look.
2. Secure with bobby pins (optional): For extra security, insert bobby pins along the braid to keep it in place.
3. Spray with hairspray (optional): If necessary, lightly spray the braid with hairspray to hold it in place.
Tips for a Perfect French Braid
- Practice makes perfect: Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. With regular practice, you’ll become more proficient and confident.
- Use a mirror: A mirror can help you see the back of your head and ensure an even braid.
- Keep the strands taut: As you add hair from the sides, keep the three main strands taut to maintain the tightness of the braid.
- Don’t overtighten: While you want the braid to be secure, avoid overtightening it as this can cause discomfort or damage to your hair.
- Adjust the size: You can adjust the size of the braid by taking larger or smaller sections of hair.
- Experiment with variations: Once you’ve mastered the basic French braid, try experimenting with variations such as the Dutch braid or fishtail braid.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How do I prevent my French braid from falling out?
A: Use bobby pins to secure the braid along the sides and at the end. You can also try spraying the braid with hairspray for extra hold.
Q: What if my hair is too short to French braid?
A: You can still French braid short hair by starting higher up on the head and adding hair from the sides as much as possible.
Q: How can I make my French braid look more voluminous?
A: After braiding, gently pull on the sides of the braid to loosen it and create more volume. You can also use a teasing brush to add extra lift at the roots.
Q: How often should I wash my French braid?
A: To maintain the freshness and health of your hair, wash your French braid every 2-3 days, depending on your hair type and styling products used.
Q: Can I sleep with a French braid?
A: Yes, sleeping with a French braid can help prevent tangles and protect your hair from damage. However, use a silk pillowcase or wrap your hair in a silk scarf to reduce friction.