How to Dutch Braid Your Own Hair

Whether you’re on the hunt for a whimsical hairstyle straight out of a fairytale storybook or are simply trying to find the best way to disguise your second-day hair, we’ll be the first to say that braids are a pretty foolproof option. And while you may feel overwhelmed by intricate waterfall and zipper braids, a stunning style doesn’t have to require lots of time and practice. One of our favorite easy-to-do braided hairstyles? A Dutch braid! Below, we’re sharing step-by-step instructions on how to Dutch braid your hair. Plus, for double the fun, we’re giving you a tutorial on how to double Dutch braid your hair, too.

How To Dutch Braid Your Hair

It’s important to note that Dutch braids can be confused with French braids and cornrows. However, there are significant differences between each style. Think of the Dutch braid as a reversed version of the French braid. Technique-wise, the difference is that you bring the outside strands over the middle section whereas, in a Dutch braid, you bring the outer strands under the middle section. And when creating cornrows, the difference from the other two is in the weaving. Instead of crossing your strands while holding your hair at an angle, you’re going to braid down for a tighter, flatter effect against the scalp.

Now that you know the differences between each style of braiding, it’s time to learn how to Dutch braid. Check out our tutorial below, complete with products you can use to create a beautiful braid.

Step #1: Clean And Prep Your Hair

Of course, you’ll want to start with clean hair to get the best results possible. Use the L’Oréal Paris Everpure Sulfate Free Scalp Care + Detox Shampoo and the L’Oréal Paris Everpure Sulfate Free Scalp Care + Detox Conditioner to help purify your scalp and get rid of any dirt, product build-up, and excess oil. After cleansing, brush through your strands to remove any knots (going from lengths to roots) and add the L'Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT Volume Inject Mousse to give your mane texture and body.

Step #2: Section Your Hair

At your hairline, create a section of hair from eyebrow arch to eyebrow arch. Then apply one to two pumps of the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Serum Leave-In. This will help give your hairstyle a sleek and smooth finish. Split this section into three equally-sized strands. This will be the start of your braid.

Step #3: Anchor Your Braid

To anchor your braid, bring your right strand under the middle strand. Then, bring the left strand under the new middle strand. Gradually add more hair to the left and right strands as you continue to braid.

Step #4: Repeat

Once you have no more hair to add to your braid, finish by styling the remaining length of your mane into a traditional, loose three-strand plait. Secure the braid with an elastic and complete the style by spritzing your mane with the L'Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Strong Hold to help lock the style in place.

How To Double Dutch Braid Your Hair

While the name may remind you of the game you used to play during recess as a child—there is no correlation between the braid and the game. This double Dutch braid requires a whole different set of skills (and we’d argue it’s way easier to master). Here’s how to do it:

Step #1: Brush Your Strands

If you’re looking for a way to refresh your trends without shampooing, reach for a dry shampoo like the L'Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Air Volume Dry Shampoo. Its formula is designed to instantly absorb oil for a long-lasting clean feel with no white residue. Be sure to spritz at the roots to add some texture.

Step #2: Section Your Hair And Dutch Braid It

Create a middle part down the center of your scalp and split your hair into two even sections. Secure the left side with a hair clip to keep it out of the way. Then start brushing the right side of your hair back (in the direction you’ll be braiding). Grab a small triangle section at the front of your hairline, split it into three sections, and begin Dutch braiding. Bring the right strand under the middle strand, then the left strand under the new middle strand, and continuously add more hair to the strands as you braid.

Editor’s Tip: Dutch braiding the back of your head can be tricky, so be sure to use a few mirrors and position yourself in a spot that allows you to see the back of your mane.

Step #3: Complete Your Braid

Once you’ve run out of hair to add to your braid, finish your Dutch pigtail by putting the remaining length of your mane into a traditional three-strand braid. To add more pizzazz to the look, style your baby hairs using a dime-sized amount of hair gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Extreme Style Gel and use an edge brush to swoop the hairs into place.