How to Make Waves with Braids

Braid damp hair to create defined, lasting waves.

Combining the sleekness of straight hair with the visual interest of curls, wavy hair provides a universally flattering, attainable alternative to high-maintenance salon styles. While waving irons, hot rollers and hair crimpers provide effective, immediate results, the long-term use of heat-based styling implements can result in dry, damaged hair. Fortunately, at-home stylists can safely create wavy hair styles using a basic braiding technique on damp hair. In addition to preserving hair health, braids offer a high degree of control over wave shapes, allowing the braider to adjust the size and intensity of the wave.

Things You'll Need

• Conditioner
• Clean towel
• Hair gel
• Wide-toothed comb
• Elastic bands
• Hair spray

Instructions

1. Wash your hair with your preferred shampoo and apply a moisturizing conditioner. Rinse the conditioner from your hair after two minutes and gently dry your hair with a towel. Avoid using a rubbing or "scrunching" motion with the towel, which can lead to frizzing and fly-aways. Instead, firmly pat your hair with the towel to absorb the excess water.

2. Apply a quarter-sized drop of hair gel to your palm and rub the gel between your hands until you get a thin, even coating on both hands. Gently work your hands through your hair, applying the gel evenly from the roots to the ends.

3. Separate your hair into sections with a wide-toothed comb. For tight, all-over waves, divide hair into many small sections, each approximately one inch wide. For a few subtle waves, divide hair into a four or five large sections of roughly equal size.

4. Braid each section of hair and secure the bottom of the braid with a small elastic band. Begin the braid at the scalp for voluminous, uniform waves. For a sleeker, flatter top, start the braid a couple of inches from the root. Braid the strands loosely for large, gentle waves, or tightly for small, defined waves.

5. Allow your hair to dry naturally and remove the elastic bands from your braids. Carefully unbraid your hair and arrange the resulting waves with your fingers. Finish with your favorite hair spray to preserve the wave throughout the day.

References

• Hair Boutique: Braid Waves - How to Create
• The Hair Styler: Braided Hair: 6 Easy Steps to Celebrity Worthy Waves
• Total Beauty: Hairstyles How-To: Sexy Waves