Hair Tutorial - Create Wavy Beach Hair with Braids

Letting your hair dry in braids allows you to create that wavy, beachy look - without damaging your hair with heated tools. Even those with stick straight hair can achieve waives using this method. I have naturally wavy hair - but they are pretty loose and semi-flat in spots. This is a fun way for me to switch things up and create a more intentional look.

Divide Hair into Sections and Braid While Wet

The amount of sections you will need really depends on how thick your hair is. You want the sections to be about the size of a quarter around for a loose, beachy look. The size of the braid will determine the size of the waive. Be ware of making the braids too small, as it may turn out looking more like you used a hair crimper.

Let it Air Dry, or use a Blow Dryer

My hair is so thick that I have to use a hair dryer to accelerate the drying process - or else it will still be wet 12 hours later in the braids. If your hair is thinner, you may still opt to use a blow dryer to speed things up. Some people sleep with the braids in their hair. I have found this makes the end result look a bit too frizzy for my taste, but every head of hair is different and your's might look perfect after a nights sleep!

You may notice that I didn't add any product before braiding. I don't think it's really necessary at this point, but i would recommend using a sculpting mouse while the hair is wet if you want to try out different options to see what works best for you.

After Drying, Pull out the Braids and Add Product

After I pull out each braid, I first add a smoothing serum, and then hairspray... lots of hairspray! The amount you need will really depend on the thickness of your hair. I can lay it on thick without my hair even getting that crunchy. Experiment with each section and find the balance that works for you. Here are the products I used:

First braid is out!

Tease the Roots for a Fuller Look

You're Done! Work It.