How To Dutch Braid Your Hair: A Step-by-Step Guide - Byrdie

Maybe your like

From French braids to loop braids, box braids to ponytail braids, hairstyles created by weaving stands together have been popular for centuries—and for good reason. Not only do braids keep hair up and out of the way, but they are also a fantastic protective style for natural hair types, safeguarding hair against damage while helping retain hair length and reduce breakage. One popular style that includes those benefits (while looking super chic) is the Dutch braid.

While Dutch braids are often confused with French braids due to the similar end results, the two styles are actually distinct. With a French braid, you're crossing sections of hair over one another, and with a Dutch braid, you'll be crossing them underneath. And while braiding your own hair can already prove difficult, reversing the direction of the three strands poses its own challenges. But with a bit of practice, you can commit the action to muscle memory in no time. To help you craft the perfect Dutch braid, we spoke to celebrity hair experts Irinel de Leon and Mahisha Dellinger for a step-by-step guide on Dutch-braiding your hair.

Keep reading for a tutorial on how to achieve Dutch braids, plus tips, tricks, and product recommendations.

Meet the Experts

Irinel de Leon is a Los Angeles-based celebrity hair stylist and curly hair expert. Her clients include Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Karlie Kloss, and Chrissy Teigen.
Mahisha Dellinger is the founder of CURLS, a natural hair care brand.

What Is a Dutch Braid?

A Dutch braid is created by crossing hair strands underneath sections versus over, as with a French braid. The style is also known as a reverse braid and is sometimes associated with UFC fighters (and referred to as "boxer braids").

"This hairstyle is really great for any hair type," celebrity hairstylist, Irinel de Leon says. "Those with straight or wavy hair can wear it overnight for pretty wearable braids come morning." For those with curly hair, Dutch braids are a great protective style to couple with a treatment or hair oil. Plus, though this style works beautifully on dry hair, it can be done on wet hair before sleeping for luscious waves upon waking up.

What You'll Need

To Dutch braid your own hair (or someone else's) you'll need a few products, including:

Hair gel or pomade
Edge control
Detangler
Clear hair ties
Rat tail Comb
Detangling brush
Anti-frizz serum

Mahisha Dellinger, the founder of the hair brand, CURLS, recommends the CURLS Blueberry Bliss Control Jelly for definition and shine. Similarly, de Leon recommends prepping the hair before braiding with a gel or pomade to help the Dutch braid maintain its hold. Ouidad's Clear Control Pomade tames the hair for a clean finish without feeling heavy.