How to Do a Double French Braid on Yourself: A Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the Art of Self-Styling

The double French braid is a timeless hairstyle that combines elegance and practicality. Whether you’re preparing for a formal event, heading to the gym, or simply want to keep your hair out of your face, mastering this technique can be a game-changer. While it may seem daunting at first, with a bit of practice and patience, you can achieve a flawless double French braid on your own. This guide will walk you through the process, offering tips, tricks, and insights to help you perfect this classic look.

Understanding the Basics: What is a Double French Braid?

Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to understand what a double French braid entails. Unlike a single French braid, which runs down the center of your head, a double French braid involves creating two parallel braids on either side of your head. This style is not only visually appealing but also helps distribute the weight of your hair more evenly, making it a comfortable option for those with thick or long hair.

Tools You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following tools:

A fine-tooth comb: For detangling and sectioning your hair.
Hair ties: To secure the ends of your braids.
Hair clips or bobby pins: To hold sections of hair in place as you work.
Hair spray or serum: Optional, for added hold and shine.

Step 1: Preparing Your Hair

Detangle and Cleanse

Begin by ensuring your hair is clean and free of tangles. Wash and condition your hair as usual, and gently detangle it using a wide-tooth comb or a brush. If your hair is prone to frizz, consider applying a small amount of serum or leave-in conditioner to smooth the strands.

Decide on the Part

Next, decide where you want to part your hair. A center part is the most common choice for a double French braid, but you can also opt for a side part if you prefer a more asymmetrical look. Use the fine-tooth comb to create a clean, straight part from your forehead to the nape of your neck.

Step 2: Sectioning Your Hair

Divide into Two Equal Sections

Once your hair is parted, divide it into two equal sections. Use your fingers or the fine-tooth comb to ensure that the sections are as even as possible. Clip one section out of the way while you work on the other.

Subdivide Each Section

For each side, further divide the hair into three smaller sections. These will form the basis of your French braid. Hold the three sections in your hand, ready to begin braiding.

Step 3: Braiding the First Side

Start the French Braid

Begin braiding the first side by crossing the right section over the middle section, then the left section over the new middle section. This is the basic braiding technique, but with a French braid, you’ll be adding more hair to each section as you go.

Incorporate Additional Hair

As you continue braiding, gradually incorporate small sections of hair from the sides into the braid. To do this, after crossing a section over the middle, pick up a small strand of hair from the side and add it to the section before crossing it over. Repeat this process, alternating sides, until you’ve incorporated all the hair from that side of your head.

Secure the Braid

Once you’ve braided all the way down to the ends of your hair, secure the braid with a hair tie. Make sure the tie is tight enough to hold the braid in place but not so tight that it causes discomfort.

Step 4: Braiding the Second Side

Repeat the Process

Unclip the second section of hair and repeat the braiding process on the other side. Start by dividing the hair into three sections, then begin braiding, incorporating additional hair from the sides as you go. Remember to keep the tension consistent to ensure that both braids look symmetrical.

Secure the Second Braid

Once you’ve braided all the way down, secure the second braid with another hair tie. At this point, you should have two parallel French braids running down either side of your head.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Adjust and Tighten

Take a moment to adjust the braids, ensuring they are even and tight. If any sections feel loose, gently tug on the braid to tighten it. You can also use bobby pins to secure any stray hairs or to reinforce the braids if needed.

Add Hair Spray or Serum

For a polished finish, lightly mist your braids with hair spray to hold them in place. If you prefer a more natural look, you can skip this step or use a small amount of serum to add shine and smooth any flyaways.

Tips for Success

Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out perfectly. French braiding takes practice, and the more you do it, the easier it will become.
Use a Mirror: If you’re struggling to see what you’re doing, use a handheld mirror to check the back of your head as you braid.
Start with Damp Hair: Some people find it easier to braid their hair when it’s slightly damp, as it tends to be more manageable and less slippery.
Experiment with Variations: Once you’ve mastered the basic double French braid, try experimenting with different variations, such as adding ribbons, creating a fishtail braid, or incorporating twists.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Uneven Sections: Ensure that your hair is evenly divided before you start braiding. Uneven sections can result in lopsided braids.
Inconsistent Tension: Maintain consistent tension throughout the braiding process to avoid loose or uneven braids.
Skipping the Prep Work: Taking the time to detangle and section your hair properly will make the braiding process much smoother.

Conclusion

Mastering the double French braid on yourself is a rewarding skill that can elevate your hairstyling game. With patience, practice, and the right techniques, you can achieve a polished and professional-looking braid that’s perfect for any occasion. Remember to take your time, follow the steps carefully, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and variations. Happy braiding!

Q: How long does it take to do a double French braid on yourself? A: The time it takes can vary depending on your skill level and hair type. For beginners, it may take 20-30 minutes, but with practice, you can reduce this time to 10-15 minutes.

Q: Can I do a double French braid on short hair? A: While it’s more challenging, it is possible to do a double French braid on short hair. You may need to use bobby pins to secure shorter sections and ensure the braids stay in place.

Q: How do I keep my double French braid from coming undone? A: To keep your braid secure, make sure to use tight hair ties and consider using bobby pins to reinforce the braid. Additionally, applying a light hold hair spray can help keep everything in place.

Q: Can I sleep with a double French braid? A: Yes, sleeping with a double French braid can help protect your hair from tangling and reduce frizz. Just make sure the braids are not too tight to avoid discomfort or hair breakage.

Q: What if my hair is too slippery to braid? A: If your hair is slippery, try braiding it when it’s slightly damp or use a texturizing spray to add grip. You can also use a small amount of hair gel or mousse to help hold the strands in place.