How to Braid Hair with Extensions for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learning how to braid hair with extensions can be an excellent way to add length and volume to your hair. Braiding extensions can also be a fun and creative way to experiment with different hairstyles. While braiding hair with extensions may seem daunting at first, it is actually quite easy to learn with a bit of practice and patience.

Beginners should start with the basics and learn how to braid hair with three strands before moving on to more complex braiding techniques. The three-strand braid, also known as a regular braid, is a simple and classic hairstyle that can be done with or without extensions.

Once you have mastered the three-strand braid, you can move on to more advanced braiding techniques such as the French braid, Dutch braid, and fishtail braid.

When it comes to braiding hair with extensions, it is important to choose the right type of extensions for your hair type and texture. Synthetic hair extensions are a good option for beginners as they are affordable and easy to work with.

However, if you have natural hair, you may want to opt for human hair extensions as they blend in seamlessly with your own hair and can be styled just like your natural hair.

Preparing the Hair Extensions

Washing the Hair

Before braiding hair with extensions, it is important to wash the hair thoroughly. This will help remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup that may be present on the hair. It is recommended to use a clarifying shampoo, which is specifically designed to remove buildup from the hair.

When washing the hair, it is important to use lukewarm water and to avoid scrubbing too vigorously, as this can cause tangling and damage to the hair. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water and pat the hair dry with a towel.

Detangling the Hair

Once the hair is clean and dry, it is important to detangle it before braiding. This will help prevent tangling and make the braiding process smoother and easier.

To detangle the hair, start by dividing it into sections. Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to gently comb through each section, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots. Be gentle and patient, as pulling or tugging can cause breakage and damage to the hair.

If the hair is particularly tangled, you may want to apply a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to help loosen the knots. Simply spray the product onto the hair and use your fingers or a comb to gently work out the tangles.

By washing and detangling the hair before braiding, you can ensure that the hair is clean, smooth, and free of tangles, making it easier to braid with extensions and helping to prevent damage to the hair.

Braiding Hair with Extensions for Beginners

Choosing the Right Extensions

When it comes to choosing the right extensions for braiding hair, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you want to make sure that the extensions match the color and texture of your natural hair as closely as possible.

This will help to create a seamless and natural-looking braid. It is also important to choose extensions that are made from high-quality materials. Synthetic hair can be a good option for those on a budget, but it may not last as long or look as natural as human hair extensions.

Finally, consider the length and thickness of the extensions. If you are new to braiding hair with extensions, it may be easier to start with thinner and shorter extensions until you feel more comfortable with the process.

Preparing the Extensions

Before you begin braiding your hair with extensions, you will need to prepare the extensions by separating them into even sections. This will make it easier to braid the hair and ensure that the braids are even and uniform.

To prepare the extensions, start by brushing them out to remove any tangles or knots. Then, separate the hair into small, even sections using a comb. You can use rubber bands or hair ties to keep the sections separate and organized.

If you are using synthetic hair extensions, you may need to dip the ends in hot water to seal them and prevent fraying. Check the instructions that came with your extensions to see if this step is necessary.

Overall, choosing the right extensions and preparing them properly are essential steps in braiding hair with extensions for beginners. By taking the time to select high-quality extensions that match your natural hair and preparing them carefully, you can create beautiful and long-lasting braids that you will love.

How to Braid Hair with Extensions

1. Preparing the Hair and Extensions

Before starting to braid with extensions, it is essential to prepare the hair and extensions properly. Begin by washing and conditioning the hair thoroughly. Dry the hair and detangle it using a wide-tooth comb.

Next, prepare the extensions by separating them into small sections. Ensure that the extensions are clean and tangle-free.

2. Adding the Extensions

When adding the extensions, start by taking a small section of the natural hair and dividing it into three equal parts. Take an extension section and place it over the middle section of the natural hair.

Hold the extension securely in place with the middle finger and thumb of the hand holding the natural hair. Use the other hand to braid the natural hair with the extension.

2. Braiding the Hair

Begin braiding the hair by crossing the right section over the middle section, then the left section over the middle section. Add an extension section to the middle section of the braid each time you cross it over.

Continue braiding the hair until you reach the desired length. Secure the end of the braid with a hair tie or rubber band.

Remember to keep the braid tight and neat throughout the process.

3. Maintenance and Care

After braiding with extensions, it is essential to take proper care of the hair to ensure longevity. Avoid excessive pulling or tugging on the braids, as this can cause damage to the hair and scalp.

Use a silk or satin scarf to wrap the hair at night to prevent tangling and frizz. Wash and condition the hair regularly, taking care not to disturb the braids.

With proper care, braids with extensions can last for several weeks, providing a low-maintenance and stylish hairstyle.

Tips for Braiding Hair with Extensions

1: Preparing Your Hair

Before starting to braid your hair with extensions, it is important to prepare your hair properly. Start by washing and conditioning your hair to remove any dirt or oil that may have built up. Dry your hair thoroughly using a hair dryer or air-drying it. If your hair is prone to tangling, use a detangling spray or comb to remove any knots.

Next, apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair to keep it moisturized and prevent it from drying out. This is especially important if you plan to leave the braids in for an extended period of time. Additionally, make sure your hair is completely free of any tangles or knots before adding the extensions.

2: Adding the Extensions

When adding extensions to your hair, it is important to choose the right type of extensions for your hair type and texture. Synthetic hair extensions are a popular choice for braiding, but they may not work well with all hair types. Human hair extensions are more expensive but tend to look more natural and blend in better with your hair.

Once you have chosen the right extensions, you can start adding them to your hair. Divide your hair into small sections and clip them out of the way. Take a small section of the extension hair and loop it around the natural hair, making sure both ends of the extension meet. Twist the extension around the natural hair strand and continue braiding as usual.

Make sure to add the extensions evenly throughout your hair to create a uniform look. It is also important to braid the extensions tightly to prevent them from slipping out of the braid.

3: Maintaining Your Braids

Once you have finished braiding your hair with extensions, it is important to maintain them properly to keep them looking neat and tidy. Avoid washing your hair for the first few days after braiding to allow the braids to set properly.

When you do wash your hair, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to prevent the braids from frizzing or tangling. You can also use a leave-in conditioner to keep your hair moisturized and prevent it from drying out.

Finally, avoid pulling or tugging on the braids, as this can cause them to loosen or fall out. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair and keep it looking neat and tidy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, learning how to braid hair with extensions opens up a world of creative possibilities for styling our hair. We have explored the step-by-step process, from preparing the extensions to braiding techniques and securing the style.

By incorporating extensions, we can add length, volume, and texture to our braids, achieving stunning and versatile looks. Whether we want to rock a fishtail braid, a Dutch braid, or a classic three-strand braid with extensions, the key lies in practice and patience.

With time, Belady Hair Factory will master the art of braiding with extensions and unlock a whole new level of hairstyling. So, let’s grab our extensions, tools, and mirrors, and embark on this journey of creativity and self-expression. Together, let’s embrace the beauty of braids with extensions and enjoy the endless possibilities they offer.

Stephanie Peter

Stephanie is a hair specialist at Belady Hair Factory, a high-end hair distributor located in downtown Toronto. She is a trained cosmetologist and has been with the company for over five years. Stephanie has vast knowledge in hair care and styling and can provide clients with everything from classic to trendy looks. She is also knowledgeable about the different products in the market and can help clients choose the right one for their hair type. Full her bio.